PLAINS, Ga. (WALB) - The annual Plains Peanut Festival returned this weekend with a bittersweet tone as the community celebrated for the first time without former President Jimmy Carter.

The longtime tradition, rooted in Georgia’s agricultural heritage, has grown into a nationally recognized event, largely thanks to Carter, the peanut farmer turned president who passed away earlier this year at age 99.

Despite his absence, Carter’s influence was felt in every aspect of the festival, from the peanut parade to the 5K run and 7-mile bike ride.

“I’m not even sure we would have a peanut festival if it wasn’t for Jimmy Carter,” said Jan Williams, a resident of Plains since 1971. “Jimmy Carter’s legacy will continue to live in Plains, Georgia.”

Tyron Spearman, executive director of the Peanut Buying Points Association, said the festival also provides a vital economic boost.

“When you sell more peanuts, that’ll help the farmers... maybe the price will go up for them before the end of the season,” he said.

For the 600 residents of Plains, the event is more than a celebration of crops — it’s a tribute to a hometown hero whose legacy is rooted in both soil and service.

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