By Maya Quinn, managing editor

The Democrat will be covering a series of interviews on the Black Belt Folk Roots Festival leading up to the event. This week, we interviewed organizer Teresa Atkins on her role and the impact the festival has on Greene County’s community.

The Black Belt Folk Roots Festival was first held in 1975 in Eutaw, Alabama. Founders Jane and Hubert Sapp wanted to recognize those who shaped the culture of West Alabama traditions. From crafts to food to music, folk artists share their lived experiences with fellow artists and attendees. 

This year, Teresa Atkins tells us that the festival will capture the present narrative of Black Belt traditions with its theme, The Next Chapter. The festival will honor its past while embracing new ideas, partnerships, and growth. Attendees will see a focus on community engagement with a cast of vendors and performers that celebrate traditions and the future of the Black Belt. Atkins stated that they want everyone in attendance to take part in “writing the festival’s next chapter.”

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Interview Questions

What inspired you to take on the task of head organizer for the festival?

First, I want to pay tribute to the women whose vision made this festival possible. The Black Belt Folk Roots Festival began in 1975 through the work of Mrs. Jane Sapp, who recognized the importance of celebrating the everyday artists, musicians, storytellers, craftsmen, and tradition bearers who shaped the cultural identity of the Black Belt. Dr. Carol Zippert later carried that vision forward for decades, dedicating herself to preserving our heritage and ensuring this festival remained a place where our stories, music, food, and traditions could be shared across generations.

When I was first asked over a year ago to take on the role of organizer, I was honestly very reluctant. I knew the history of the festival and the tremendous responsibility that came with leading something that had become such an important tradition in Greene County. My hesitation wasn’t because I didn’t believe in the festival; it was because I had such deep respect for the legacy that Mrs. Sapp, Dr. Zippert, and so many others had worked so hard to build.

Over time, I came to understand just how important it was to help continue the work and vision that Dr. Zippert had poured into this festival for so many years. I realized this wasn’t about one person, but more about preserving a tradition that means so much to our community. Although I accepted the role later than she had originally hoped, I wanted to do everything I could to help ensure the festival continues to thrive.

I also want people to know that this has truly been a team effort. While I’ve been asked to serve as organizer, this festival is possible because of the dedication of so many people who have faithfully worked behind the scenes for years. Mrs. Barbara Anderson has been an invaluable partner throughout this process, along with the organizing committee, volunteers, community partners, and others who have supported Dr. Zippert’s vision over the years. Their knowledge, commitment, and willingness to serve have made this year’s festival possible.

I don’t see myself as replacing Dr. Zippert or those who came before her. I see myself as one of many people entrusted with carrying the torch forward. I hope to honor the foundation they built while working alongside this incredible team to ensure that the Black Belt Folk Roots Festival continues to celebrate the rich culture, creativity, and resilience of our community for generations to come.

What is the theme of this year’s festival? What will be different from previous years?

This year’s theme is “The Next Chapter.” It represents honoring the rich history of the festival while embracing new ideas, new partnerships, and new growth opportunities.

This year, attendees will notice a focus on community engagement, a diverse lineup of performers, expanded vendor participation, and an overall experience that celebrates both our traditions and the future of the Black Belt. We want everyone, from longtime attendees to first-time visitors, to feel like they’re part of writing the festival’s next chapter.

What can attendees expect in terms of vendor and performance variety?

This year, attendees can expect an incredible variety of vendors and entertainment. We’re excited to welcome many first-time vendors who are joining the festival for the very first time, along with several returning vendors who have become favorites over the years. It’s a wonderful mix of familiar faces and new businesses, giving visitors something fresh to experience while continuing to support those who have been part of our festival tradition.

You’ll find everything from delicious food and sweet treats to handcrafted goods, books, clothing, jewelry, health and wellness products, community organizations, and unique gifts. Our entertainment lineup is just as diverse, featuring gospel, blues, spoken word, and local artists who represent the rich musical heritage of the Black Belt.

One thing I encourage everyone to do is come ready to shop, eat, and support our vendors. These small businesses have invested their time and resources to be part of this festival, and we want every vendor to feel welcomed and supported. So, don’t just stop by one booth; take time to visit them all, discover something new, and help us spread the word. The more people who come out and support these businesses, the stronger our community becomes.

Are there any returning performers and community-loved vendors?

Absolutely! One of the things that makes the Black Belt Folk Roots Festival so special is that people look forward to seeing many of their favorite performers and vendors return each year. At the same time, we’re excited to introduce new talent and new businesses that represent the next generation of our community. That’s really what this year’s festival is about, honoring our roots while embracing what’s next.

Our entertainment lineup includes several festival favorites such as Clarence Davis, Jock Webb, Nigel Speights & Band, Terry “Harmonica” Bean, the Greene County Mass Choir, and the New Generation Men of Praise, just to name a few. These artists have helped shape the festival over the years, and we’re honored to welcome them back.

We’re also excited to introduce a spoken word artist, youth dance teams, and local favorites like Jaylon Beck and CountryBoii Tye. Providing a stage for emerging talent is an important part of continuing the legacy of this festival. Just as the founders created a place to celebrate the voices and gifts of their generation, we want to create opportunities for young artists to find their place and carry that tradition forward.

Our vendors and attractions reflect that same vision. We’re welcoming many first-time vendors while also bringing back community favorites that people look forward to every year. Visitors can enjoy great food from vendors like Travis’ Chicago Style Sausages & Bear Burgers and Poppin’ Sisters, browse unique handcrafted items from favorites like The Belt Man, and explore a wonderful variety of area businesses, artisans, authors, and specialty vendors. Families can also enjoy The Kids Tent, hosted by Mynecia Steele, where children will have opportunities to participate in fun, engaging, and family-friendly activities.

I believe that’s what makes this year’s festival so meaningful. It’s a celebration of the people and traditions that built this festival while opening the door for new artists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to write The Next Chapter. We invite everyone to come out, enjoy the music, support our vendors, bring the entire family, and help us celebrate the rich culture, creativity, and heritage of Greene County and the Black Belt.

What are you hoping the festival does for Greene County, economically and culturally?

My hope is that the festival serves as both an economic driver and a source of community pride.

Economically, every visitor who comes to Greene County has the potential to support our restaurants, gas stations, retailers, and other local businesses. The festival also provides entrepreneurs and vendors with an opportunity to showcase and grow their businesses.

Culturally, we want to preserve the stories, music, traditions, and heritage that make the Black Belt so unique. We want our young people to appreciate where they come from and for visitors to leave with a deeper appreciation of Greene County and everything it has to offer.

How can those support the festival if they are unable to attend?

There are several ways to support the festival even if you can’t be here in person.

• Share our social media posts and invite others to attend.
• Tell friends and family about the festival.
• Sponsor the event or make a donation.
• Support our vendors online before and after the festival.
• Pray for the success and safety of everyone involved.

Every share, every sponsorship, and every word of encouragement helps us continue this tradition.

Where is the best place to stay for those out of town?

We’re excited to welcome visitors from across Alabama and beyond to the Black Belt Folk Roots Festival! If you’re planning to stay overnight, Greene County offers a couple of hotel options in Eutaw, as well as several Airbnb accommodations in the area. 

If you’d like additional lodging choices, many of our guests choose to stay in nearby Tuscaloosa, Demopolis, or Livingston, all of which are within an easy driving distance of the festival. No matter where you stay, you’ll be just a short drive from a weekend filled with great music, delicious food, local shopping, and Southern hospitality.

Are there any immediate needs regarding organizing and setting up?

Community involvement is what makes this festival possible. We’re looking for volunteers to assist with setup, greeting guests, vendor assistance, hospitality, cleanup, and general event support. We’re also continuing to welcome sponsors and community partners who want to invest in this year’s festival.

Anyone interested in volunteering, sponsoring, or supporting can reach out through our social media page or contact the Greene County Democrat at 205-372-0525. Every helping hand makes a difference.

Mark your calendars for August 22nd-23rd to join Greene County’s community for its annual celebration of the people who call it home. 

For information on this year’s festival, visit: Black Best Folks Root Festival on Facebook

 

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Featured image: Teresa Atkins and Barbara Amerson Hunter in the Democrat. Holding cornhusk dolls and natural crafts. (The Greene County Democrat)