The 40th Annual Black Gold Walnut Festival is happening on Saturday, October 4, 2025, between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. There will be four contests going on: baking, woodworking, and pumpkin carving, as well as AltonMo.com’s photo contest.
Baking
The baking contest will have three categories: cookies, breads, and cakes. Each category will have a first, second, and third place prize worth $15, $10, and $5. All entries must contain black walnut. Entries must be brought to the Chamber booth by 11:00 am.
Woodworking
The woodworking contest has no categories just first ($50), second ($35), and third ($20) place. Entries must be submitted to the Chamber booth by 11:00 am. All the entries also must be made out of walnut wood.
Pumpkin Carving
The pumpkin carving contest will start when the festival starts at 10:00 am. There are two age categories: 5-8 year-olds and 9-12 year-olds. Each age category will have first, second, and third place prizes of $20, $15, and $10. All the materials and supplies needed to carve a pumpkin will be provided.
Photo Contest
The photo contest is being held by AltonMo.com. The contest starts at 10 am and voting will stop at 1 pm. There are four categories: black and white, patriotism, people, and catch-all. To vote for your favorite pictures, tickets are 1 for $1 or 6 for $5. There will be first, second, and third place prizes for each category, as well as a winner among the voters. You can bring your picture(s) to the AltonMo.com booth at the Walnut Festival.
