The Atkins Pickle Fest

The Atkins Pickle Fest celebrates its 20th year on May 20-21. The first fried dill pickles ever sold anywhere were at the Duchess Drive-In in Atkins, summer of 1963, at 15 cents for an order of fifteen hamburger slices. They were created by Bernell "Fatman" Austin, owner of the drive-in. Austin kept working on his creation through the summer to improve them. By late summer, he had perfected the pickle to what it is today: a large pickle sliced lengthwise and breaded in the family's secret recipe, then deep-fried to a golden texture. They are featured at the Atkins Picklefest each May. Since they are no longer sold at any restaurant, this is the only place and time of year you can get this special, original recipe. The festival also includes contests, vendors, arts and crafts, inflatables for kids and more. Call 479-641-2000 for details.