Popcorn Sutton Jam 2024

Popcorn Sutton Jam 2024

06/09/2024 · Newport, Tennessee

We finally made it out to Popcorn Sutton Jam 2024 at the Cocke County Fairgrounds in Newport, Tennessee, and it lived up to everything we’d heard. The event was easy to get into, well organized, and packed with vendors, tastings, and familiar faces from across the moonshine and maker community. It felt relaxed but busy, with people moving between booths, tasting tables, and conversations all day.

One of the first things that stood out was how many distillers were on hand and actively engaging with folks. Tastings weren’t rushed, questions were welcomed, and there was plenty of time to actually talk shop. Events like this work best when the people pouring are also the people willing to explain what’s in the jar, and Popcorn Sutton Jam nailed that balance.

Adventure Distilling Co. East Tennessee Distillery booth set up at Popcorn Sutton Jam 2024 in Newport, Tennessee.
Adventure Distilling Co. representing East Tennessee with bottles out and conversations going steady throughout the day.

We spent time catching up with distillers we’ve met at other events and finally putting faces to names we’d only known online. That mix of new introductions and familiar conversations is what keeps us coming back. You’re not just sampling shine — you’re building real connections with the people behind it.

Master Distiller Brandon Buffington talking with Still Will and Big Beard at Popcorn Sutton Jam 2024 in Newport, Tennessee.
Master Distiller Brandon Buffington spending time with us and talking through his lineup.

The vendor area stayed busy all day, with everything from copper work and distilling-related gear to food and handmade goods. It wasn’t hard to bounce from one booth to the next and lose track of time. There was always something worth stopping for, whether it was a tasting, a product demo, or just a good conversation.

Rows of craft and maker vendors set up at Popcorn Sutton Jam 2024 at the Cocke County Fairgrounds.
Craft and maker vendors lined out across the fairgrounds, keeping foot traffic moving all afternoon.

Food trucks stayed steady, and nobody had to hunt far when it was time to grab a bite. Between tastings and walking the grounds, it was easy to work food breaks into the day without missing anything. That kind of pacing matters at an all-day event.

Big Beard and Still Will among attendees enjoying delicious snacks from food trucks at Popcorn Sutton Jam 2024 in Newport, Tennessee.
Food trucks stayed busy and kept people fueled between tastings and vendor stops.

There was also plenty to see beyond the distilling side of things. Classic cars were parked throughout the grounds, adding another layer to the atmosphere and giving people even more reason to slow down and look around.

Classic cars parked on display at Popcorn Sutton Jam 2024 at the Cocke County Fairgrounds.
Classic cars on display around the fairgrounds, adding to the laid-back festival feel.

By the end of the day, it was clear why this event keeps growing. It’s not just about honoring a legacy — it’s about bringing people together, giving small businesses a place to be seen, and creating space for real conversation. We’re glad we finally made it out and we’re already planning on being back.

Vintage hand-crank corn sheller on display at Popcorn Sutton Jam 2024.
Fun Extra – Vintage corn sheller on display. A simple reminder of how much work used to go into the basics.

Also in attendance

Big thanks to the organizers, volunteers, and behind-the-scenes crew who kept the day running smoothly. From setup to teardown, the event stayed organized and welcoming, and it showed.


👕 Worn at This Event

She Thinks My Thumper’s Sexy! tee worn by Big Beard at Popcorn Sutton Jam 2024 in Newport, Tennessee.

“She Thinks My Thumper’s Sexy!” Tee
worn by Big Beard

Come And Take It tee worn by Still Will at Popcorn Sutton Jam 2024 in Newport, Tennessee.

“Come And Take It” Tee
worn by Still Will


Event took place June 9, 2024 at the Cocke County Fairgrounds in Newport, Tennessee. Original Facebook coverage for this trip was first posted on June 17, 2024. Extra photos and community comments are available on Facebook: View the original post.

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