Severe weather threat looms over decades-long tradition in Maury County

COLUMBIA, Tenn. (WSMV) - For half of a century, Mule Day has been a time-honored tradition in Maury County, often drawing visitors from around the world.

It’s a tell-tale sign when it’s happening if you drive by Maury County Park, where livestock, wagons and trailers are scattered throughout.

The park is where most participants, many of whom got in over the weekend, hunkered down during the severe storms from Sunday overnight into Monday. Two of the four confirmed tornadoes in the Midstate happened in Maury County.

“Rain or shine we’re going to be here,” Camping Director Bernie Schwartz said. “We know days ahead of time when Mother Nature is going to come in. Let’s say if something bad comes in like the other night, the high school is available to us for an EVAC shelter.”

Schwartz says if the situation were severe enough, they would go to the park to evacuate people to safety. He says Monday morning he was at the park to check on people, when he realized the park was untouched and calm.

In addition to that, Schwartz says plans are made months in advance with local first responders to ensure others are safe. There’s even a localized command center at the 4-H building across the street from the park.

It takes a lot to shake the courage of the Mule Days participants, but the respect for Mother Nature is there.

“We went in the hospital one year ago when they had that bad tornado,” Billy Butler said. “Went in the basement.”

Billy and his wife Vickie have yet to miss the festival since they started coming. They say every year, at least one day is clouded by a weather event.

“You worry about it, but there’s not much you can do about it,” Billy said. “Just gotta ride it out.”

While clear skies aren’t promised, organizers and participants guarantee a family-friendly environment with tons of animals, laughs, and a surprise at the Mule Pull event.

The festival kicks off on Thursday at 10 a.m. local time and continues through Sunday afternoon. A full list of events can be found at this link.