Reviewed by: Pat Byington
Alabama Butterbean Festival to end after 20 years in Pinson
Reading time: 3 minutes
Organizers of the annual Alabama Butterbean Festival announced Tuesday, March 17, will not return in 2026. The news about the state’s second-largest festival follows a decision by new city leadership to withdraw financial support for the 20-year tradition, according to festival leadership.
A ‘disappointed but not discouraged’ farewell
In a statement following the announcement, Dean Kirkner, Board President of the Alabama Butterbean Festival, addressed the funding cut directly while emphasizing the organization’s resilience.
“While we are disappointed by the decision from new city leadership to withdraw financial support, we are not discouraged.
“In fact, this moment has challenged us to become more focused, more independent, and ultimately more impactful. Our mission is evolving—but our commitment to Clay and Pinson is stronger than ever.”
Dean Kirkner
Two decades of a “beloved tradition”
What began as a small gathering two decades ago grew into a massive production, trailing only the National Peanut Festival in Dothan in size.
Drawing an average of 20,000 visitors a year, the festival put Pinson on the map with its Guinness World Record 1,010-gallon pot of beans and its iconic mascot, Bucky.
In a separate announcement via Facebook, the festival team shared their gratitude:
“What began as a small community gathering grew into a beloved tradition… We are deeply grateful for every sponsor who believed in us, every vendor who shared their craft, and every attendee who showed up year after year to celebrate with us.”
Alabama Butterbean Festival
For 20 years, the festival was a staple of the fall season in Jefferson County. Its absence means butterbean enthusiasts will miss out on:
- The Butterbean 5K, a major regional race
- The “Knosh Pit,” a designated food area featuring both carnival food + every variation of butterbeans imaginable
- Family favorites including the Pet Parade, carnival rides + the firework show
What’s next?
While the festival as we know it won’t return to the streets of Pinson this October, Kirkner’s comments suggest the organization won’t be disappearing entirely.
With a mission that is “evolving,” the board appears to be looking for new ways to impact the Clay and Pinson areas independently of city funding.
At the upcoming Pinson City Council meeting, which was moved from Thursday, March 19 to Friday, March 20 due to a scheduling conflict, city officials are expected to address the festival’s departure.
To stay updated on Alabama news, sign up for our FREE newsletter and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn + Instagram.
