The Tennessee State Fair in Wilson County drew increased attention this year as it introduced a timber calling contest, placing the unique art of the lumberjack call firmly in the regional spotlight. Adding a fresh twist to the fair’s longstanding celebration of forestry culture, the timber calling event underscored Tennessee’s deep connections to its woodlands and rural traditions.

A New Tradition in Tennessee’s Forestry Contest

The inaugural timber calling contest saw participants step up to a microphone, each challenged to deliver the most memorable lumberjack call within a brisk 60-second window. Guided by the experienced stewardship of Kenneth Pannell—well known in the local circuit for organizing calling competitions—the event welcomed an array of competitors, representing every age from elementary students to retirees. The aim was not only to showcase the traditional “Timber!” but also to encourage creative reinterpretations of the classic lumberjack call.

Diverse Participants Add Flair to the Timber Calling Contest

Contestants brought a range of voices and styles to the stage, with some putting inventive spins on what is typically a simple, resounding cry. Contestant Justin Franiak distinguished himself with a compelling call and response routine, captivating both judges and onlookers. His performance earned him the timber calling championship title along with a $30 award, demonstrating how skill and originality can be celebrated in a community setting.

Engaging the Community Through Friendly Competition

The contest’s ability to draw participants from across Tennessee and beyond—some traveled from Oklahoma—demonstrated its audience engagement and appeal. Locals and visitors alike filled the venue, showing strong support for those daring the stage. The welcoming spirit cultivated at the event echoed the fair’s broader mission of fostering togetherness within the region. Whether showcasing a booming traditional call or an imaginative twist, all voices found encouragement from their peers and judges alike.

Timber Calling Contest Highlights the Forestry Theme

The timber calling contest emerged as a keystone of the fair’s forestry theme, complementing other activities such as log sawing competitions and birdhouse building workshops. Enthusiasts of forestry contests could witness a blend of skill, tradition, and light-hearted rivalry, reinforcing the fair’s ongoing support for educational and recreational programming in forestry.

Honoring Tradition in a Modern Fair Event

As a new addition to this year’s fair events, the timber calling competition reminded attendees of the region’s rich timber heritage. The judges, a diverse panel of eight, evaluated not only volume and clarity but the ingenuity behind each call, rewarding traditions while celebrating fresh approaches to the lumberjack competition format.

Looking Ahead: Will Timber Calling Return?

While the timber calling contest saw high audience engagement and positive feedback from competitors, the future of the event remains uncertain. With the forestry theme concluding, organizers will determine whether to continue timber calling as a standing feature at upcoming fairs. Regardless of what’s to come, this year’s contest has already succeeded in sparking enthusiasm across Tennessee communities, reinforcing the fair’s role as a gathering place for creativity, friendly rivalry, and appreciation of forestry’s place in the state’s history.