BURNET — When visiting the Bluebonnet Festival website, one of the tabs reads “Like No Other.”
And according to Suzanne Brown, committee chairwoman, it’s fitting.
After all, there’s a little something for everyone, including a pet parade, a grand parade, 5-kilometer and 10-kilometer races, a carnival, vendors and live music by local and Texas artists. Miss Burnet and her court begin their reign at the festival.
So it’s no wonder the Bluebonnet Festival was voted the Burnet area’s favorite festival by The Picayune readers in the Locals Love Us awards.
“We’re so excited The Picayune readers chose us as the best festival,” Brown said. “There’s really something for everyone at the Bluebonnet Festival.”
The festival, which this year is April 9-12, is one of her personal favorites, too. She said that before she became the chairwoman, she wanted to make sure she had time to enjoy the festival with her family.
“I do enjoy being with my family and enjoy the events,” she said.
A festival of this size requires 12 months of advanced planning, Brown said, noting it would not be possible without a dedicated group.
“We have a fabulous executive committee and volunteers who help us put the whole show together,” she said. “It’s a great opportunity to work with other members in our community.”
And while attendees might not realize all the work that goes into the planning and execution of the festival, Brown said that doesn’t bother her.
Her enjoyment comes from seeing her family members, friends and neighbors take part in the activities, savor the food, bop to the live music and catch up with one another.
“Your eyes well up because it’s a wholesome family event,” she said. “We love presenting a wonderful festival to our friends and family.”
Even the vendors love attending, she said, since they perform one more task before leaving the city.
“Many of our vendors come back year after year,” she said. “Before they leave the festival, they sign up for next year.”
jfierro@thepicayune.com
Burnet’s Bluebonnet Festival ‘like no other’
The annual Bluebonnet Festival in Burnet offers many activities for all ages, making it a family affair. Photo by Diana Cox