Alton, Mo. – The Annual Black and Gold Walnut Festival was held Friday and Saturday, October 5-6, 2026. Despite record-breaking heat earlier in the week and rain earlier in the day, the events planned were successful. This is only a snapshot of the weekend. Additional reporting will be published soon!
Friday
Friday night was the kick-off to the festival with the Tom Clary Classic Car Cruise-In. With only intermittent mist falling, cars motored to Alton Square to show off their engines, bodies, and special features.
Older vehicles and newer ones parked to show their best sides. Some spoke about the older cars and how everything was manual; nothing electronic there! The vehicles were in excellent condition, waiting to be driven again.
Saturday
Saturday dawned clear and bright, perfect for outdoor activities. The school choirs started the day performing. Contests got underway. And food vendors got cooking. Shoppers continued to arrive and slowly walk about, spending their money. Shoppers and vendors were happy with the crowd and the weather.
Woodworking, baking, and pumpkin carving contests were judged. Meanwhile, raffles were continuing around the square. In the afternoon, live music from two bands was performed, making one want to linger and shop. This was a family-friendly event.
It was the perfect weather for a festival, and the crowds arrived to show their support.
