Old Timers Day Festival Applications Open for 67th Annual Celebration in Downtown Dickson
Dickson, TN — One of Dickson County’s longest-running traditions is officially gearing up for another year, as organizers announced that vendor and parade applications are now open for the 67th Annual Old Timers Day Festival, set to once again bring thousands of visitors to Historic Downtown Dickson.
Photo: 67th Annual Old Times Day (OTD Committee/Chamber of Commerce)
Festival organizers made the announcement this week, signaling the unofficial start of festival season in the community. The annual event, hosted by the Dickson County Chamber of Commerce, has become a cornerstone celebration of local heritage, small businesses, and community pride.
“It’s time,” organizers posted in their announcement, inviting vendors, community groups, and parade participants to submit applications ahead of spring deadlines.
A Tradition Nearly Seven Decades Strong
Old Timers Day has evolved into one of Dickson County’s signature events, blending hometown tradition with modern festival energy. What began decades ago as a community gathering celebrating local history has grown into a regional attraction featuring:
A downtown parade
Local craft and food vendors
Live entertainment
Family activities
Community organization booths
Local business showcases
Each year, Main Street transforms into a hub of activity as residents and visitors fill downtown streets to celebrate Dickson’s past and present.
For many families, attending Old Timers Day is a yearly ritual — one that connects generations who have grown up attending the festival.
Application Deadlines Announced
Organizers emphasized that participation requires advance registration, with separate deadlines for parade entries and vendors:
Parade Application Deadline: April 10, 2026
Vendor Application Deadline: April 17, 2026
Completed applications and payments must be submitted to the Dickson County Chamber of Commerce, located at 205 South Main Street in downtown Dickson.
Applications are available online through links provided by festival organizers or can be downloaded directly from the festival’s website.
Economic Boost for Downtown
Beyond its cultural importance, Old Timers Day provides a significant economic impact for local businesses. Restaurants, boutiques, and service businesses often see one of their busiest days of the year during the festival.
Local vendors — from handmade crafts to food trucks — also benefit from exposure to large crowds that include visitors from across Middle Tennessee.
Community leaders frequently point to the event as an example of how festivals help sustain downtown vitality while showcasing Dickson County’s identity.
A Showcase of Community Spirit
The parade remains one of the most anticipated parts of the celebration, typically featuring:
School groups and marching bands
Local sports teams
Civic organizations
Churches and nonprofits
First responders and public safety agencies
Local businesses and community leaders
For many participants, the parade is less about spectacle and more about visibility — a chance to celebrate the people and organizations that make Dickson County function day to day.
Looking Ahead
As planning begins for the 67th year, organizers say early applications help ensure smoother logistics and a broader variety of vendors and participants.
With spring approaching, the announcement serves as a reminder that festival season — and warmer days ahead — are just around the corner.
Residents interested in participating are encouraged to apply early before spaces fill.
Old Timers Day continues to stand as a reflection of Dickson itself: rooted in tradition, centered on community, and focused on bringing people together downtown.