Meet Oatie & the
Grits Guzzler
If you’re new to Bertram, there are two characters you’ll want to know before the Grande Parade rolls down Vaughan Street — because if you blink, you might miss them entirely.
Oatie and the Grits Guzzler have been part of the Oatmeal Festival’s story since 1978, and while they only make their appearance for a short window on festival morning, they’re two of the most talked-about traditions in town. Here’s what first-timers should know.
Community Pride vs. Comic Mischief
Oatie
A giant, good-natured oatmeal container who’s been the festival’s beloved mascot since day one. Oatie represents everything the Oatmeal Festival stands for — community, fun, and Bertram pride — and spreads smiles wherever he goes.
The Grits Guzzler
A festival prankster on a one-track mission: convincing everyone to “Eat Grits, not Oats!” Complete with dramatic dry-grits theatrics, the Guzzler is equal parts funny and full of himself — and every year, it catches up with him.
Here’s the twist: the Grits Guzzler always meets a playful “arrest” by the Police Chief during the Grande Parade — a bit of festival theater that’s become just as anticipated as the parade itself. The Guzzler always vows to return. And every year, he does.
One fun detail worth knowing: a different volunteer plays the Grits Guzzler each year, so the character’s look may change slightly — but the mischief never does. Half the fun for longtime festivalgoers is trying to guess who’s under the costume this time.
Where & When to Catch Them
Every character, every custom, every “arrest” — it’s all part of what makes Bertram’s Oatmeal Festival feel like a small town’s living scrapbook. Come early on September 26th, claim your spot on Vaughan Street, and see the tradition for yourself.
