The annual celebration of all things Welsh in Rockmart returns next weekend after skipping a year in 2024, bringing vendors, family fun, and more to downtown.

WELSHFest 2025 kicks off on Saturday, March 15 at 10 a.m. with a flurry of activities that are appropriate for all ages to enjoy.

Following the opening ceremonies on Saturday morning in downtown Rockmart, Susan Waters and Ron Cline are taking the stage to perform, followed by the annual Welsh Corgi Show hosted by the Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of Greater Atlanta. That begins at noon.

Julie Bell Smith begins after (1 p.m., potentially later depending on how long the dog show takes center stage.) The Men in Kilts “Bonniest Knees in Rockmart” contest follows, with the Welly Wanging Contest at 3 p.m.

The Eurharlee Creek Bluegrass Band is rounding out this year’s show with a performance at 4 p.m.

The events close up at 5 p.m. in downtown for 2025.

Along with entertainment and contests, the Rockmart History Museum is open for tours and vendor booths will be opening at 10 a.m.

The Tea Room in the Rockmart First Methodist Church fellowship hall will be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering tea and a variety of sweets for those seeking a English-style tea during WELSHFest.

Additional fun can be had with tours of the Rockmart Slate Quarry starting at 11 a.m., and a sensory room opening at 11 a.m. as well.

Tours will also be open for the Van Wert Church, Rockmart First Methodist, and Rockmart Presbyterian. Tours of the First Methodist are only available at 1 and 2:30 p.m., while the Presbyterians will be hosting visitors in their historic sanctuary from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Usually the Van Wert Church hosts a singing event on Friday night prior to the kickoff of WELSHFest, but this year due to unforeseen circumstances they were unable to host.

WELSHFest is a celebration of all things Welsh in Rockmart, where many settlers with heritage from the eastern shores of the English isle settled in Rockmart during the early days of the slate quarry operations.

Check out the WELSHFest website for more information.