April 19-22, 2017
Camp McCroy, 1058 Hwy 30, Reliance, TN 37369
The ramp or wild leek, is a wild onion native to North America. The bulb resembles a scallion, but the flat, broad leaves set it apart. According to John Mariani, author of “The Encyclopedia of American Food and Drink,” the word ramp comes from “rams,” or “ramson,” an Elizabethan dialect version of the wild garlic.
Ramps grow from Tennessee to Canada, and in many areas they’re considered a spring delicacy and even a reason for celebration. The flavor and odor of ramps is usually compared to a strong garlic.
The Polk County Ramp Tramp Festival was started in 1958 by 4-H club members and volunteers who ”tramped” up the Big Frog Mountain in Polk County, TN to enjoy a hike on a spring day as well as a ramp meal. Today, that same traditional spirit lives on during the annual Polk County Ramp Tramp Festival.
Today’s festival is held at the Polk County 4-H Camp (Camp McCroy) on the fourth Saturday in April.
The festival brings hundreds to the camp each year to enjoy the traditional meal while bluegrass music is played. The traditional meal includes ramps fried in eggs, streaked meat, fried potatoes, white beans and cornbread. All proceeds are used for the operation and the upkeep of Camp McCroy.
April 19-22, 2017
Camp McCroy, 1058 Hwy 30, Reliance, TN 37369
8am: Digging the Ramps
Preparing the Ramps & Live Music
10am-2pm: Ramp Meal – Fried ramps in eggs, fried potatoes, streaked meat, white beans and cornbread with drink. Spend the day enjoying Bluegrass & Gospel music and old-time fellowship while enjoying a meal of fried ramps in eggs, fried potatoes, streaked meat, white beans and cornbread. Local craftsman have handmade articles for sale. Also the famous “Ramp” hot dogs will be available.
10:15am: Bring out those buck dancing & clogging shoes for Bluegrass Music from Ben Callihan & The Misfits!