Bryson City, N.C. – Western North Carolina locals gathered for the second annual Picklefest at Darnell Farms on Sept. 5 and 6. The community came together to celebrate pickles by listening to live music, enjoying pickled foods, and supporting local vendors. The event was inclusive, and admission was free, allowing hundreds to enjoy the festival.
The owner of the farm, Jeff Darnell, owner of Darnell Farms, shared his appreciation for people and how he wants everyone to feel like Darnell Farms is their farm too.
“This is interesting about pickling isn’t it? And customs and anthropology of all of them,” Darnell said.
He said that pickled food tells us a lot about anthropology and can help us better understand culture and the people who share it. He loves the variety of foods, whether that be pickled beets, pickled pig, or his personal favorite to talk about, kimchi.
Vendor and Jackson County native, Rebecca Queen, brought her pickle-inspired soap to the event. After a near-death experience, Queen decided to start her own soap-making business and can put all her energy into her true passion: soap.
Lots of fun activities kept the people out in the heat. Co-winner of the pickle-eating contest, Carissa, said she’s “Loved pickles ever since she was young,” and she was a “nervous wreck” beforehand.
A common love for pickles is what brought the community together for this festival and is a true testament to the people involved.
Visitors of Picklefest 2026 had a chance to taste various foods from around the world featuring pickles. Photo by Bella Hilleary. 
Jeff Darnell, owner of Darnell Farm greeted community and visitors to the second Picklefest at the Darnell Farms on Sept. 5. Photo by Bella Hilleary. 
Fried pickles were popular food item at the Picklefest. Photo by Bella Hilleary 
Rebecca Queen brought her special pickle soap to the Picklefest, Sept. 5, at the Darnell Farm. Photo by Bella Hilleary. 
