DRIVING PAST historic Bell Buckle at night, one might mistake the small cluster of buildings for a sleepy little town with not much going on. However, anyone who has stopped and spent time in this treasured gem of a town knows that’s far from the truth. Bell Buckle is a tightly-knit community made up of fun, interesting, and friendly people. The town is full of artsy folk who nurture and appreciate the uniqueness and history of their quaint town. In fact, Southern Magazine honored Bell Buckle as its first choice for Best Small Towns in 2021. Established in 1852, Bell Buckle is now known for its home cooking, eclectic shops, southern hospitality, handmade crafts, antiques, quilts, a world-renowned college preparatory school, and annual down- home festivals.
One of Bell Buckle’s most loved festivals is the Daffodil Day Celebration. The celebration is held every year on the third Saturday in March. It is a celebration of spring, life, and of course thousands and thousands of those bright yellow flowers! Many are unaware, but the yellow beauties are so prevalent along the roadsides and throughout the community because of a mass planting that took place over a hundred years ago. Since the planting, the daffodils have multiplied and are now growing in every backyard, along every roadside, and all throughout the tree-lined town. Each spring, those little yellow flowers take over and bring such cheer to every person passing by! Due to the coronavirus pandemic, a formal celebration has not taken place in the past two years. While the flowers still bloomed, the crowds did not gather. Needless to say, this year’s celebration is highly anticipated by all!
The 44th Annual Bell Buckle Daffodil Day Celebration will take place in Historic Bell Buckle on Saturday, March 19, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The free event will have a host of activities and contests for all ages and interests. The morning will commence with the famous Daffodil Flower Show. The contest will be held at the new Bell Buckle Mini-Banquet Hall 2. Entries will be accepted that morning until 11:30 a.m. and winners will be announced at 12:30 p.m.
Another Daffodil Day contest is one for the nicest butt in Bell Buckle! Self- professing grill masters from all around gather at Captain Rodney’s lot to show off their barbecuing skills. To experience the cook-off yourself, follow the drool-worthy smells to Captain Rodney’s lot. For only $10, guests will be able to sample each of the contestants’ entries and vote on a favorite. Votes will count towards the People’s Choice Award. Cook-off winners will be announced at 4 p.m. following the Arbor Day Ceremony. For rules and instructions for both contests, visit the chamber website at bellbucklechamber.com.
In addition to the ongoing contests, there will be a host of activities to enjoy. Shop until you drop in all the local stores and vendor tents. Get a bite to eat at the Bell Buckle Cafe or at one of the many food trucks on-site. Take a seat on an old wooden bench and listen to local music artists, Olivia Mason and Chase Clanton. Go meet John Wayne. Mr. Wayne will be signing books at the Bell Buckle Coffee Shop until 3 p.m.
Lastly, don’t forget to arrive early for the free tree seedling giveaway. The Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce and the Bell Buckle Tree Board, organizers of this event, look forward to hosting this celebratory day! -GN