Get Ready for Cotton Ginning Days: A Celebration of History and Community in Dallas, NC
1 day ago
4 min read
Mark your calendars for October 9 through 11, 2026, because something exciting is coming to Dallas, North Carolina! The 39th annual Cotton Ginning Days festival is back, and it promises to be a weekend filled with fun, nostalgia, and community spirit. This year, exhibitors from across the Southeast will gather to showcase antique steam and gasoline engines and tractors, making it a must-see event for history buffs and families alike.
Cotton Ginning Days
Dallas, NC | October 9-11, 2026
Friday, 10 am - 5 pm
Saturday, 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday, 10 am - 3 pm
Why You Won't Want to Miss It
Imagine strolling through a lively festival filled with the sounds of antique steam engines and children's laughter. Cotton Ginning Days offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness the impressive machinery that played a pivotal role in our agricultural history. Whether you're an enthusiast of vintage engines or simply looking for a great way to spend a day with family and friends, there's something for everyone!
Learn About the History of Steam Engines
One of the highlights of Cotton Ginning Days is the chance to learn about the fascinating history of steam engines. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in live demonstrations, where skilled operators will showcase these incredible machines in action. Watch as they come to life, and discover how steam power transformed agriculture and industry. Knowledgeable exhibitors will be on hand to share stories and insights, making this an educational experience for all ages.
See the Cotton Being Spun
At the heart of Cotton Ginning Days is a fully restored 1900 Continental cotton gin, powered by a historic 1920 Fairbanks Morse diesel engine. Watch as cotton is ginned just as it was more than a century ago, then see the next step in the process as demonstrations show how cotton was traditionally spun into thread by hand.
Heritage Village
Step back in time and explore our historic village, featuring preserved buildings, live demonstrations in the Blacksmith and Machine Shops, vendors and exhibitors.
Unique Fun Like The Tractor Parade and Tractor Rodeo
Watch tractors and their drivers put their skills to the test in a series of fun games and challenges during the Tractor Parades and Tractor Rodeo.
Friday, October 9th
Tractor Parade 9 am
Tractor Rodeo 4 pm
Saturday, October 10th
Tractor Parade 1 pm
Tractor Rodeo 4 pm
Explore the Heritage Arts Area
Dive into the creativity of our community in the Heritage Arts Area, where you’ll find talented artisans displaying their skills and crafts. Handmade items fill this vibrant space and celebrates local artistry and craftsmanship. Support small businesses by exploring unique handmade craft vendors offering one-of-a-kind items perfect for gifts or keepsakes. Whether you’re looking for something special to take home or just want to admire the creativity on display, this area is sure to inspire.
Kid Zone
Saturday Only
Bring the kids for a full day of fun! Enjoy carnival rides with unlimited rides for just $10 per wristband, FREE inflatable games, Monster Mini Golf for $5 per person, per round, and more family-friendly activities throughout the day. Familes can also find Gem Mining in the Heritage Village and other activities throughout the weekend. On Saturday, Gaston County 4-H Blazing Saddles will also offer pony rides (fee applies - located at the Horse Arena near the concert.)
Select food vendors will be located in the Kid Zone on Saturday only.
Pony Rides
On Saturday, Gaston County 4-H Blazing Saddles will also offer pony rides (fee applies - located at the Horse Arena near the concert.)
Live Music
Don’t miss out! Enjoy the whole park! This year the music will be at the back of the park at the Amphitheater where we have better acoustics. Local artists will fill the air with lively tunes, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for dancing and celebrating.
Saturday Live Music Schedule
12:30 pm - Brennan Shortridge and the Bird Dogs
2:30 pm - The Fox Fires
5:30 pm - Brennan Shortridge and the Bird Dogs
Select vendors will remain open until 7 PM Saturday during the evening concert.
Satisfy Your Cravings with Fantastic Fair Food
Let's talk about one of the best parts of any festival: the food! Cotton Ginning Days is known for its mouthwatering options that satisfy any craving. From classic fair treats to local specialties, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Free Admission, Parking and Shuttle
One of the best things about Cotton Ginning Days? Admission and parking are completely free! That means you can enjoy all the festivities without worrying about breaking the bank.
Free Festival Shuttle • Saturday Only
Skip the festival traffic! A FREE shuttle will run continuously from the Gaston College parking lot to Cotton Ginning Days from 10 AM–5 PM on Saturday.
Festival Tram • Friday, Saturday & Sunday
Parking in the field? Catch the FREE internal tram from the field parking area for a convenient ride to the heart of the festival near the Cotton Gin.
Join Us in Celebrating Our Heritage
Cotton Ginning Days is more than just a festival; it celebrates our community and heritage. Presented by GAMTRA and the Gaston County Parks and Recreation Department, this event brings together people of all ages to appreciate our region's rich history of agriculture and machinery.
Discover Downtown Historic Dallas
If you have a little extra time, make sure to stop by Downtown Historic Dallas, located just north of I-85 off Hwy 321. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this charming area was once the county seat and is rich with history. Stroll the streets and visit iconic sites like the Old Gaston County Courthouse, the Gaston County Museum, and the Old Jail. Surrounded by beautifully preserved buildings, you’ll find plenty to explore, making it a perfect complement to your festival experience.
Gather your family, invite your friends, and make a weekend of it—you won't regret it!
