2025 Seaman Fall Festival Queen and her court. Left to right, Fourth Runner-Up Aubrey Miller; First Runner-Up Kensley Mathias; Queen Kennedi Dotson; Second Runner-Up Johnie Edwards; and Third Runner-Up Elizabeth Raines. (Photo by Ryan Applegate)
By Ryan Applegate
People’s Defender
The 2025 Seaman Fall Festival once again brought four days of music, contests, parades, and community spirit to downtown Seaman. From Wednesday, September 17 through Saturday, September 20, families filled the streets to celebrate a tradition that has become a highlight of the fall season. With events ranging from tractor pulls to live concerts, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
The festival opened Wednesday evening with the National Anthem and a performance by the North Adams High School music program. Excitement built through the Little Miss & Mister Contest and led into the Queen Contest on the Main Stage, one of the festival’s most beloved traditions. Miss Kennedi Dotson was crowned the 2025 Seaman Fall Festival Queen, a moment that carried deep personal meaning for her.
“It feels amazing,” Dotson said after receiving her crown. “It’s my senior year, so I’m really looking forward to that. When my Papaw passed, I wanted to carry this tradition on and be able to do it. Winning today just feels really good, and I feel like I’m making him proud.”
Dotson also expressed hopes of inspiring others who might be uncertain about stepping into the spotlight. “I’m just looking forward to being able to be an inspiration to all those young girls that watch the Queen’s pageant and thinking that they couldn’t do it,” she said. “Because here I am.”
Joining Dotson on the 2025 Queen’s Court were several outstanding contestants. Kensley Mathias was named First Runner-Up, while Johnie Edwards earned Second Runner-Up. Elizabeth Raines finished as Third Runner-Up, and Aubrey Miller was awarded Fourth Runner-Up. Together, the court reflected the grace and determination of the community’s youth.
The festivities continued Thursday with tractor pull competitions in the morning and the North Adams School Parade in the afternoon. Families gathered for children’s games at the Lions Club basketball court, and Family Traditions, while music filled the air with performances from Satisfied, and Chosen Lighthouse. A community bake sale capped off the day’s activities, adding a touch of homemade flavor to the schedule.
Friday offered another round of action as the Open Heavy Weight Tractor Pull drew crowds to the pull track. Later, children lined up for the pedal tractor pull, while the Main Stage transformed into a lively karaoke venue. Both youth and adult contestants delivered memorable performances, giving friends and neighbors a chance to shine in the spotlight.
Saturday closed the festival with a full day of fun. Families started with the Baby Contest on the Main Stage, followed by the Grand Parade in the afternoon. Evening entertainment included the Wood Wheel Derby, basketball contests, and a high-energy Northern Wrestling Federation show. As midnight arrived, Hot Rod & The Fast Lane took the Main Stage for a rousing performance that brought the festival to its official close.
From the opening ceremony to the final song, the 2025 Seaman Fall Festival showcased the best of small-town tradition and togetherness. At the heart of it all was the crowning of Queen Kennedi Dotson, whose victory served as both a personal tribute to her family and an inspiration to the next generation. The festival not only honored its roots but also reminded everyone why it remains a cherished event year after year.
