April 11, 2025

Brian Mitchell, Redskins Super Bowl Champion, Speaker at Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast

Jeremy Luttrell, president of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® is pleased to announce that Brian Mitchell will be a guest speaker at the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast on Saturday, May 3, at 9 a.m. The Breakfast will be held in the Tolley Dental Zone at the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center on the campus of Shenandoah University.  Mitchell will be riding in the Hang 10 Firefighters’ Parade on Friday at 5:30 p.m. and the Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade on Saturday, May 3, which kicks off at 1:30 p.m. 
 
Brian Mitchell, a Super Bowl Champion and one of the most accomplished NFL players of his era, returns to the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® for the first time since 1993. Born and raised in Plaquemine, Louisiana, as one of seven children, Brian developed a strong foundation in both education and athletics. He attended the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette), where he set an NCAA record for most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback.
His remarkable talent and work ethic led him to the NFL, where he started his career with the Washington Redskins in 1990 as a return specialist and running back. In his second season, Brian made history by setting NFL records for punt return yards and touchdowns, helping the Redskins win Super Bowl XXVI. Throughout his 14-year career, which also included stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants, Brian earned three NFL All-Pro selections, a Pro Bowl appearance in 1995, and induction into the Redskins Ring of Fame. He remains second in NFL history for all-purpose yards and special teams touchdowns.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Brian is known for his positive attitude and commitment to helping others. He frequently participates in charity events, serves as a mentor to young athletes, and encourages individuals transitioning from athletics to new careers. Today, he co-hosts "B Mitch and Finlay" on 106.7 The Fan and serves as an analyst on regional and national sports shows. Outside of work, Brian enjoys cooking, cycling, and golfing.
Brian's impact extends far beyond his impressive statistics—he uses his platform to inspire hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude in communities across the country.

Tickets to Festival events are available at www.thebloom.com/event

Lillian Lewis
By Erik Zimmerman January 23, 2026
Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® Crowns Lillian Lewis Miss Spirit of Apple Blossom Volunteer Teen.
Festival receives Virginia Tourism Grant
By Erik Zimmerman January 22, 2026
99th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® Receives Virginia Tourism Corporation Grant for Tourism Marketing.
The Floor Shop Cash Party
By Erik Zimmerman January 21, 2026
Due to the forecasted inclement weather, The Floor Shop Apple Blossom Cash Party has been postponed to Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 5:00-10:00 pm at Millwood Station Banquet Hall.
2026 Pages
By Erik Zimmerman January 2, 2026
Four boys have been selected to serve as Pages in the Court of Queen Shenandoah XCIX during the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, April 24th through May 3rd, 2026.
New Year's Eve Celebration, Old Town Winchester
By Erik Zimmerman December 26, 2025
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Old Town Winchester.
Little Maids 2026
By Erik Zimmerman December 26, 2025
Six girls have been selected to serve as Little Maids in the Court of Queen Shenandoah XCIX during the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, April 24 - May 3, 2026.
Graham Barham and Spencer Hatcher
By Erik Zimmerman December 15, 2025
Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® Announces Graham Barham as Headliner for the 2026 Malloy Toyota Country Music Party.
Stefani Pady
By Erik Zimmerman December 10, 2025
Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® Announces Stefani Pady as Prayer Brunch Inspirational Speaker.
Chris Tomlin and special guest Cade Thompson
By Erik Zimmerman December 8, 2025
An Afternoon of Worship featuring Chris Tomlin, and Special Guest Cade Thompson, to perform at the 2026 Contemporary Christian Concert.
Sofia Elena Aikens, Emily Renee Hunt, Mary Keniford Wei-na Kimble, and Alexis Jeanne Plotts
By Erik Zimmerman November 25, 2025
Four young women from the Winchester area have been selected to serve as Maids in the Court of Queen Shenandoah XCIX during the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival®.
Show More