If you're curious as to where the name Flopeye Fish Festival originated, here is the story. More than 75 years ago, one of the local merchants, Andy Morrison, would sit in front of his general store, having a hard time keeping his prominent eye lids from flopping over his eyes. One of three ladies passing by, not having seen him before, blurted out who is that old flop-eyed man? Several by-standers heard her and news traveled fast over the grapevine to the Republic Cotton Mills president, Mr. Rob Mebane. Flopeye, a good name for that part of town, he said. The name, then, was promoted by mill management and took hold. People liked saying they had been to FLOPEYE. And they still do..
The Flopeye Fish Festival brings about a community wide recreational highlight. With a variety of food, fun and entertainment accompanied by the enthusiasm of a homecoming atmosphere, the festival attracts visitors from many states. The event brings our citizens together and preserves the saying, After all, life is to enjoy.
