Discussing the 2026 Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin' Festival with Winky Jenkins-Rice, DJ Butch, and Mary Katherine Westmark

"The Wormgrunting Festival is already one of the most unique festivals, I think, in the country, but we're going to be adding some more historical and cultural treasures." — Winky Jenkins-Rice Vibrations, Traditions, and the Wiggle Worm Run Step into the historic Sopchoppy Railroad Depot with Doug Apple and the organizers of the world-famous Worm Gruntin' Festival. This isn't just a local fair; it's a deep dive into a unique way of life that dates back generations. In this episode, we explore the brand-new Heritage Village, where the "wisdom and knowledge of the past" is being preserved through demonstrations of turpentine soul, beekeeping, and cane syrup making. We also get a science lesson from Nelson Martin on the Darwinian roots of worm grunting—explaining exactly why a wooden "stob" and an iron "roosing" bar can trick a worm into thinking a hungry mole is on its trail. Whether you're interested in the 1.4-mile Wiggle Worm Fun Run or the high-stakes competition for the next Worm Grunting Queen, this discussion covers the full spectrum of this April 11th celebration. -- The Heritage Village: A new addition focusing on local artisans, sugar cane syrup, beekeeping, and the historical turpentine business. -- The Science of the Grunt: How vibrations mimic the Eastern American mole to drive worms to the surface. -- Competition for All Ages: Details on the 12-and-under worm grunting contest and the 1.4-mile Wiggle Worm Fun Run (costumes encouraged!). -- Music and Dance: From the Hot Pepper Steppers clogging group to the "Worm Grunners Ball" featuring Rick Ott’s band. -- Local Legends: Honoring former queens like Miss Lossie Rozier and hearing stories of growing up in a worm-grunting family of eleven.