As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, one Tennessee farm family is marking a milestone of its own.

Flat Top Mountain Farm, located atop Flat Top Mountain near Soddy-Daisy, is celebrating 202 years of continuous family farming, dating back to 1824 when the Hughes family first settled on the mountain. Today, 10 generations later, the family is welcoming visitors to experience that history during the farm's annual Lavender Festival.

The Lavender Festival will take place June 4–21, offering guests the opportunity to stroll through blooming lavender fields, pick fresh lavender, enjoy mountain views, shop locally made products and experience a working family farm that has remained in the same family for more than two centuries.

"While our country celebrates 250 years of history, we're grateful to be part of a farming legacy that has remained rooted on this mountain for 202 years," said Kerry Hughes Dishman of Flat Top Mountain Farm.

"The Lavender Festival is more than just a chance to see lavender in bloom. It's an opportunity for families to slow down, connect with nature, and experience a piece of Tennessee's agricultural heritage."

Founded in 1824, Flat Top Mountain Farm remains family-owned and operated by multiple generations of the Hughes family. The farm has evolved over the years while maintaining its commitment to agriculture, land stewardship and preserving the family's connection to the mountain.

"Our family has lived and farmed on this mountain since 1824," said Terry Hughes, an eighth-generation farmer. "We've watched generations come and go, but the land remains a reminder of where we came from and the responsibility we have to preserve it for future generations. The Lavender Festival gives us a chance to share that history with others."

Festival guests can enjoy:
- U-pick lavender fields;
- Lavender bundles harvested fresh from the farm;
- Lavender lemonade;
- Lavender-inspired treats and products;
- Local ice cream;
- Farm store shopping;
- Scenic mountain views;
- Photography opportunities; and
- Family-friendly farm atmosphere.

Special events throughout the festival include the farm's popular Bluegrass & Blooms concert with Mountain Highway Bluegrass Band on June 13, and educational demonstrations showcasing lavender harvesting and distillation.

Flat Top Mountain Farm focuses on creating a peaceful experience centered on agriculture, family traditions and the natural beauty of the mountain.

June 4-21 Festival schedule and hours:
-Thursday: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
-Friday: 4-8 p.m.
-Saturday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
-Sunday: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

- Admission: $5 per person; children 13 and under are free

- U-pick Lavender Bundles: $10

Flat Top Mountain Farm is located at 638 Bowman Cemetery Road in Soddy-Daisy.

For more information, visit flattopmountainfarm.com or follow Flat Top Mountain Farm on social media.