Shelbyville, TN - The American Mule and Music Association and Uncle Dave Macon Days teamed up for a successful 2023 Macon Music and Mules festival this past September (Sept. 28 through Oct. 1st) at the Cooper Steel Arena on the World-Famous Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration grounds in Shelbyville, Tennessee.

From the beginning, festival organizers determined the 4-Day Festival would be a benefit for the United Veterans Council of Bedford County. The Mule Give-A-Way and donations received raised $8,153. A check for that amount was given at the Veterans Day Parade, November 11, 2023.

Marty Gordon, Director of American Mule and Music Association notes, “We teamed up with Uncle Dave Macon Days enhancing the festival experience by educating the public about old-time traditions in a fun way. One of purposes of the partnership was to use the festival to “Give Back” to the community. Our 2023 festival was dedicated to veterans and their needs through the United Veterans Council of Bedford County.”

Gloria Christy, President of Uncle Dave Macon Days, reiterated, “We met our partnership goal which was to use the festival proceeds to make a difference in both our communities. The organizers of Uncle Dave Macon Days continue to be thrilled that the festival benefits veterans. Bedford County has expanded services which includes connecting veterans to needed services.”

Macon Music and Mules not only shared the roots music experience in Middle Tennessee, but was also successful in identifying and embracing a community need. Both organizations agree that going South to Southern Middle Tennessee in Shelbyville renewed the mission to perpetuate and preserve the made-in-America culture through Macon Music and Mules. This innovative partnership benefited both communities in a creative way.

“There is zeal to maintain the musical culture, but ‘Meeting Need and Giving Back’ is the main priority,” Gloria Christy asserted.

Marty Gordon, Director of American Mule and Music Association notes, “Teaming up with Uncle Dave Macon Days will continue to be a benefit for both communities. As we embrace the future, together we will continue the objective of sharing our proceeds with other non-profits.”

Plans are already coming together for 2024 for Macon Music and Mules in Shelbyville, Tennessee. For all the news about 2024 go to: www.maconmusicandmules.com