Rose Hill Fall Fest

History

The Rose Hill Fall Festival’s story began in 1976 when the Rose Hill Boy Scouts hosted a barbecue to fund their summer camp. Soon, The Rose Hill Lions Club joined the festivities by adding a craft show, and giving birth to what we now celebrate as the Fall Festival. Year after year, the festival began to evolve, and thanks to the Lion Club which sponsored for 30 years, helped continue to grow the festival. Now, a committee of 15 members work year round to ensure the festival remains a vibrant and successful community event.

The festival’s annual festivities begin with a theme contest, leading to a button design competition. Community members are invited to create and submit their designs, with the winning entry featured as the official festival button for that year. The artist behind the chosen design is awarded $100. To support the festival’s funding, the buttons are sold throughout the event.

In the early years of the festival, activities included nail-driving contests, greased pole climbing, cow chip throwing, and straw stack scrambles. Over time, the event evolved to feature a variety of attractions such as talent shows, melodramas, magicians, quilt raffles, and fireworks. The addition of antique tractor pulls and garden tractor pulls delighted local farmers, while a long-standing carnival with rides has kept children entertained. The festival also boasts a parade down Rose Hill Road, which remains a highlight for all attendees.

The festival has grown to include a vibrant array of new activities over the years. Friday night kicks off with a Chili Feed and, occasionally, a local football game, followed by the Backyard BBQ contest. Saturday’s lineup features the Annual Run for the Roses, a pancake breakfast, and a float contest leading up to the parade. After the parade, visitors can check out the Car Show, Quilt Show, and craft market. The Senior Center offers a Chicken and Noodle Lunch, while children enjoy the pedal tractor pull. Additional fun includes pony rides, a petting zoo, a Junior Firefighter House, a Vehicle Extrication Demo, and a pet show with awards. The day also features a turtle race, a street dance, a fishing derby and a Boy Scout flag retirement ceremony. The festival wraps up on Sunday with a community picnic, a raffle with cash prizes, and a straw stack scramble.

The festival has truly evolved into a dynamic celebration that reflects the spirit of the community. With a blend of traditional events and exciting new additions, such as the fishing derby and pedal tractor pull, it offers something for everyone. Each year, the festival not only honors its rich heritage but also embraces fresh experiences, ensuring that it remains a cherished highlight of the community calendar.