Happy Trails Film and Television Festival

Happy Trails Film and Television Festival Southwest Virginia's first Western, Sci-Fi, Faith, & Classic Film & TV Festival.

A Nostalgia Media Event for those who cherish the memories of their favorite movies and television shows, and the actors and actresses who starred in them.

06/01/2026

CELEBRATE ANDY GRIFFITH’S 100th BIRTHDAY
IN HIS HOMETOWN, MOUNT AIRY NC
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 2026

🌭Eat a hot dog at the Snappy Lunch!
🍿See Andy’s movies at the Earle – drink a bottle of pop and enjoy fresh popcorn!
⭐See the new artifact in Andy Griffith Museum – unveiled June 1!
🆓Enjoy a Free Behind the Scenes Tour of the Andy Griffith Playhouse!
⭐Take home a piece of Mayberry history!

Come to Mount Airy and celebrate Andy Griffith's 100th birthday on Monday, June 1, 2026!

Scheduled Events include:
⏰9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Andy Griffith Museum open
⏰9:45 a.m. - Proclamation by Mayor Jon Cawley declaring June 1st Andy Griffith Day in honor and celebration of Andy's 100th Birthday
⏰10:00 a.m. ➡ ⭐New artifact unveiled at Andy Griffith Museum⭐
⏰10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. ➡ New “Andy & The Earle” display, along with self-guided tours and more at the Historic Earle Theatre Old-Time Music Heritage Hall
⏰10:00 a.m. ➡ Free Movie, "No Time for Sergeants," starring Andy Griffith, Historic Earle Theatre
⏰1:00 p.m. ➡ Behind the Scenes Tour of the Andy Griffith Playhouse (included with museum admission today only)
⏰1:30 p.m. ➡ Free Movie, "A Face in the Crowd," starring Andy Griffith, Historic Earle Theatre
⏰2:30 p.m. ➡ Behind the Scenes Tour of the Andy Griffith Playhouse (included with museum admission today only)
⏰4:00 p.m. ➡ Free Movie, "No Time for Sergeants," starring Andy Griffith, Historic Earle Theatre
⏰4:00 p.m. ➡ Behind the Scenes Tour of the Andy Griffith Playhouse (included with museum admission today only)
⏰7:00 p.m. ➡ Free Movie, "A Face in the Crowd," starring Andy Griffith, Historic Earle Theatre

Post a tribute to Andy and tag us on Facebook at Mayberry Days and Andy Griffith Museum and on Instagram

For more, join us Mayberry Days®, September 21-27, 2026
as we continue to celebrate Andy Griffith! www.mayberrydays.org

Don't miss going to the Siamese Twins Museum while you are in Mount Airy. Located across Rockford Street from the Andy Griffith Museum. Hours 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Visit Mayberry NC Yadkin Valley, NC The Andy Griffith Show Rerun Watchers Club

05/29/2026

Check out our website!

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVALJUNE 26-28,2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter13Howdy Pardners, W...
05/16/2026

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVAL

JUNE 26-28,2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter13

Howdy Pardners,

We are absolutely brimming with excitement as we look ahead to our forthcoming event, which is shaping up to be an extraordinary celebration of history, camaraderie, and enduring passions. As we’ve often shared in our past communications, this year is particularly rich with significant anniversaries that underscore the legacy we collectively cherish.

Our "Happy Trails" gathering is truly unlike any other. It transcends the traditional media event or autograph show; it has organically evolved into something far more profound – a heartfelt annual reunion. The beautiful bonds of friendship and shared enthusiasm that flourish here are the very essence of what makes our community so special and vibrant. Particularly our emphasis on faith productions.

This year, we are especially thrilled to commemorate the 50th anniversaries of various iconic programs and pivotal moments within the genres we hold so dear. Expect a captivating journey through time, acknowledging the milestones that have shaped our cultural landscape. Our insightful columnist, Cindy Smith, will once again be your guide, weaving together the rich tapestry of classic film and television genres that have been the cornerstone of our focus throughout the years.

Furthermore, we continue our strong emphasis on the vital contributions of authors. Their storytelling prowess and dedicated research are indispensable in preserving the histories and expanding the narratives that enrich our understanding and appreciation. You’ll find their presence and influence thoughtfully highlighted throughout this issue and at the event itself.

And as the spirit of summer ignites, we will also joyfully participate in the historical commemoration of the birth of one of the world's greatest democratic nations. This momentous occasion will add an additional layer of heritage and collective pride to our festivities.The anticipation is building, and we eagerly await the opportunity to reunite with all of you in just a few short weeks for what promises to be a memorable and heartwarming occasion.

Happy Trails,

The Bunk House Gang

Point North † Outreach Alert, Spring Part 2, 2026Dear Readers,This issue is a little early however it was a surprise eve...
04/28/2026

Point North † Outreach Alert, Spring Part 2, 2026

Dear Readers,

This issue is a little early however it was a surprise even to the author of the attached. After getting his latest book out LIFE, LAUGHTER AND REDHEADS, he got to thinking about the book’s inclusion of STAR TREK. That led to the question of how real are the characters to the author who creates them. This was presented as an idea in story form to the Roanoke Valley Christian Writers group and they felt the attached should be published. We hope you enjoy it.

Blessings,

The Staff

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVALJune 26-28, 2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter No 12Howdy Pardne...
04/28/2026

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVAL

June 26-28, 2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter No 12

Howdy Pardners,

Just two months away from our next event and the excitement level is high. It will be great being reunited with friends and having a program with everything from adventures to films and music. Beautiful visiting ahead again.

This newsletter covers some of that plus another column by Cindy Smith. One that perfectly readies us for our event. We are seeking ways to celebrate two anniversaries. First the 250th of our nation and second the 50th for the start of media events in Virginia.

Speaking of the latter, Cindy’s column reminds this writer what we have done in our early years, the emphasis was on authors as well as media guests. And one of our first guests was both.

At RoVaCon 2, 1977, Leigh Brackett was a guest of honor. Invited primarily as an author known as the “Queen of Space Operas.” She was also a noted script writer for Howard Hawks doing mysteries for Humphrey Bogart and Westerns. She was a favorite of John Wayne’s doing several of his biggest Westerns. Science fiction wise her “The Empire Strikes Back” completely changed the direction of the Star War Series.

It must be added she began our “Not For Profit” status by starting a program of scholarships for deserving high school seniors. Now supporting a program for cancer research.

Happy Trails,

The Bunk House Gang

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVALJune 26-28, 2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter No 11Happy Resurr...
04/02/2026

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVAL

June 26-28, 2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter No 11

Happy Resurrection Week Partners,

We are in the last quarter of the year before our event and we hear more and more about things being added to the program. Film wise we have so far two excellent short films from Spice Williams-Crosby and we are hoping for others that our guests are involved in. We have some interesting workshops including one centered on authors, one on stunt work, one on acting and a surprising one, bee keeping. Wonder if Sherlock Holmes will drop by.

This newsletter has two amazing articles. First by our columnist Cindy Smith FROM WHERE I SIT which beautifully fits the season. It has a challenge for all of us. We always like to report the latest on all our guests and in this issue we feature some career additions by Tammy Locke.

If you have not followed progress on our website the link is included so you may see what we are doing and what we need to do. We will be using every means to get the word out so we can honor the wonderful film and TV stars who partner with us each year.

Happy Trails.

The Bunk House Gang.

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVALJune 26-28,2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter No 10Howdy Partner...
03/01/2026

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVAL

June 26-28,2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter No 10

Howdy Partners,

It seems like the year is speeding by and our next get together is four months away.

In this issue Cindy Smith writes a column that says it all. About change and in a sense what Happy Trails Film And Television Festival is all about. As you read it you will see it well expressed why we want to make this one the best yet. And to honor all our guests and staff members past and present.

You, dear readers, are most important and we look forward to seeing you all again. The sooner memberships and banquet reservations are in the better programming we can plan for all.
And speaking of planning this newsletter also covers plans for the first day of our event, June 26 in regard to eating at the Pink Cadillac Diner.

We expect a big Writers Panel this year. Between guests and staff there are at least four and, possibly more, new books out that will be introduced.

It is also possible that we will be welcoming a new pastor at CommUNITY. However Pastor Tom will be back as out rootin’ tootin’ MC.

Happy Trails and Prayers for Our Great Nation,

The Bunk House Gang.

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVALJune 26-28, 2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter No 9Howdy Partner...
02/08/2026

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVAL

June 26-28, 2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter No 9

Howdy Partners,

That Groundhog has to be spoken to.

Attached is our latest issue beginning with another outstanding column by Cindy Smith. Plus a need for prayers for Chief Steve and Phyllis Silverheels.

Kathy Garver sent a thank you to all of us in support of her Granny nomination. She was a class act as always. The Grammys reflected a prejudice reported by film and TV actor Dean Cain which you will read about in the newsletter, that has spread to some major media conventions and their organizers. Not at all like what we have in the Roanoke Valley.

There is something we have been told for forty nine years, that as a convention we differ from other media events. We are more family orientated and all participants have a feeling of being with friends. No criticism for differing opinions.

We want to keep this going but it depends on memberships. And there is an old saying that is true: “Early money is the best money.” It is with that money we can build.

We also like to hear from you and encourage you to let us know your thoughts and opinions.

Happy Trails,
The Bunk House Gang

Happy New Year Partners,A little over six months to go and it’s show time. But as you will read in the newsletter and up...
01/06/2026

Happy New Year Partners,

A little over six months to go and it’s show time. But as you will read in the newsletter and updated flyer work has been well underway. One piece of good news too late too put in newsletter, Ann-Marie Murrell will be back.

There is also a very heartwarming column by Cindy Smith that fits the season perfectly. There are Biblical scriptures that call upon us to care for our four legged friends. If memory serves me correctly Roy Rogers did a hit song about that. Wonder if we should have that song performed at our event.

For our event to be successful and continue it is t important to have your input and participation. This program cannot survive without you. And we do need your memberships and banquet reservations as soon as possible. We also do appreciate contributions.

Happy Trails,

The Bunk House Gang

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVAL June 26-28, 2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter No 7 Merry Chris...
12/02/2025

HAPPY TRAILS FILM AND TELEVISION FESTIVAL June 26-28, 2026 In Salem, VA at CommUNITY Church, Newsletter No 7

Merry Christmas Partners,

This issue’s column by Cindy Smith is both a beautiful Christian message about the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and a warning. We hear a great deal about the influence the continuing legacy of Charlie Kirk has had on college campuses but there is a down side. Last year alone 7,000 Christian churches closed down due to declining attendance and thousands of pastors left the ministry.

Part of the problem has been due to a rise in political elected leaders who are aligned with socialism and who reject Christianity and Biblical principles. As Cindy warns, we could have a future where the celebration of Christmas in parts of the nation will be outlawed.

On another note you will read that plans continue to make out next media event the best ever. It is not too early to get your membership and banquet reservations in.

We pray you have a beautiful and meaningful Christmas celebration.

The Bunk House Gang

Address

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Salem, VA

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