CARTHAGE, Texas — The beloved Potlatch Festival is back this weekend, bringing a family‑friendly celebration to the Carthage Civic Center. Organized by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to community sharing, the free event is expected to attract close to 4,000 visitors.
Schedule and Highlights
Festivities kick off on Friday, Sept. 25, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. with local shopping and the 2026 Poker Run. Saturday, Sept. 26, runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring nearly 100 regional vendors, the 2026 Car Show, and an America’s 250 tribute.
An official opening ceremony is set for Saturday at 10:30 a.m., with Carthage City Manager Brooke Lipsey presiding. Live music will fill the air throughout the weekend, including performances by Presley West, Luke Moody—winner of the 2025 John Ritter Tribute Showcase—and Chase Dawson, the 2022 showcase winner.
Family Activities and Community Programs
The free KidsZone returns on Saturday, offering rides, face painting and a dunk‑in‑the‑bucket booth featuring local celebrities. Additional attractions include a fire‑truck display on the outdoor stage, a UT Health helicopter exhibit, a coloring‑contest station and a showcase of the festival’s winning scholarship essay.
All proceeds from the festival support the organization’s annual scholarship program. This year’s award is a $1,000 scholarship for a local high‑school senior, reinforcing the event’s commitment to education and youth development.
Why the Festival Matters
Potlatch has become a staple of Panola County’s cultural calendar, providing a platform for local businesses, artists and volunteers to connect with neighbors. The festival’s emphasis on family activities, free entertainment and charitable giving aligns with the values of traditional families and community stewardship.
Residents are encouraged to attend, support local vendors, and celebrate the shared heritage that makes Carthage a vibrant place to live and raise families.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
