Azalea’s History

The Azalea Storytelling Festival boasts a rich 29-year history, tracing its origins back to 1995. Over the years, this festival has transformed from a once-a-year event on the first full weekend of March into a series of storytelling programs held throughout the year.

Conceived by three esteemed LaGrange women- Pat Gay, Storyteller and Public Relations/Children’s Librarian at the LaGrange Memorial Library; Dr. Evelyn Jordan, Chair of the LaGrange College Education Department; and Joyce Morgan-Young, the Assistant Superintendent of the Troup County School System- The Festival became a reality in March of 1997. With the support of storyteller Donald Davis, the inaugural Azalea Storytelling Festival featured nationally renowned storytellers Donald Davis, Ed Stivender, and Kathryn Tucker Windham. Donald Davis has since remained a steadfast friend and mentor, contributing his guidance, support, and expert performances in the LaGrange, GA community. 

In 2023, Kirsten Dunn was named the festival’s first Executive Director and continues to lead efforts to expand programming, strengthen community engagement, and grow the organization while honoring the festival’s longstanding traditions and mission.

Acknowledged as one of Georgia’s oldest storytelling festivals, the Azalea Storytelling Festival has earned recognition from the Southeastern Tourism Society as a premier regional event. Notably, the festival received the 1999 Leadership Award from the National Storytelling Festival Association and was commended by the Georgia Department of Economic Development.

The festival itself takes place annually on the first full weekend of March and attracts over 2000 visitors, contributing to its status as a major tourism event, thanks to acclaimed storytellers, dedicated local sponsors, and the tireless efforts of the festival committee and community. In 2025 the Azalea Storytelling Festival was voted by the community as the Best Local Event in Troup County.

Integral to the festival’s success is the unwavering support of LaGrange College presidents, faculty, and staff. Since its inception in 1995, LaGrange College has served as the festival’s advocate, sponsor, partner, and home. The festival’s venue, LaGrange College’s Callaway Auditorium, features an engraved marker outside the entrance, honoring the three festival founders amidst a backdrop of azaleas. 

Beyond the annual festival, the Azalea Storytelling Committee has expanded its programming to include a variety of year-round storytelling events and community partnerships.

A Taste of Storytelling, held each February in collaboration with the Friends of the Library at the LaGrange Memorial Library, offers audiences a preview of the storytelling spirit that defines the festival.

Stories with Friends provides an inclusive gathering for storytellers and listeners alike, reflecting the committee’s commitment to fostering storytelling and community connection throughout the year.

Stories in the Garden is a longtime partnership with Hills & Dales Estate that brings storytelling to a beautiful outdoor setting for audiences of all ages.

The Donald Davis Storytelling Workshop, hosted at Hills & Dales Estate each July since 2016, offers an immersive learning experience for storytellers from across the region.

The annual holiday event, Deck the Halls with Donald Davis, takes place each December and has become a cherished seasonal tradition for the community.

Through steadfast partnerships and creative initiatives, the Azalea Storytelling Festival and its associated programs have continued to grow and thrive, even during challenging times. Guided by a dedicated committee, community supporters, and strong regional partnerships, the festival remains committed to preserving the art of storytelling while creating meaningful cultural experiences for audiences of all ages.

This historical overview was provided by Joanna Baxter, Jacque Hornsby, and Joyce Morgan-Young in September 2022 and updated by Kirsten Dunn in 2026.