(StatePoint) Every year the Bluegrass State is home to more than 700 festivals and fairs, all of which celebrate some aspect of Kentucky culture, food, arts and so much more.
It is common knowledge that each May, Kentucky hosts the Kentucky Derby, also known as the “most exciting two minutes in sports.” What might not be as well known is that Louisville spends most of the month of April celebrating the Kentucky Derby Festival.
The festival attracts more than 1.5 million visitors and features around 70 events, from parades to marathons to elegant balls and wine tastings. The Derby City pulls out all the stops for this one-of-a-kind celebration, and you won’t want to miss “Thunder Over Louisville,” the festival’s opening ceremony and one of the largest annual fireworks shows in North America. The Great BalloonFest is another signature event that makes the Louisville skyline fun and beautiful.
Taking place in Owensboro every June, ROMP is a celebration of bluegrass music and lifestyle. Not only does this festival include the biggest bluegrass and country acts, but it also features workshops for musicians and songwriters of all skill levels. Past headliners have included Del McCoury, Molly Tuttle, the Punch Brothers and many more.
For something outside the bustling city, visit Stanton’s Corn Festival, held every August. This three-day festival takes place in the Appalachian foothills where you can enjoy live music, dozens of vendor tables and an annual corn eating contest!
During the first week of September, thousands of visitors trek to Oak Grove in southwest Kentucky for the Butterfly Festival. This event features a variety of engaging activities, including arts and crafts, face painting, a balloon artist, a photo booth, the bubble zone, and more, making it perfect for families. The biggest draw is the grand release of more than 3,600 butterflies, making a fun family event truly unforgettable.
The Best of the Bluegrass (formerly known as Festival of the Horse) is a popular three-day event in mid-September that celebrates Bluegrass culture in the heart of horse country. This fest showcases more than a dozen musicians and countless vendor booths, ranging from handmade woodwork and crafts to jewelry, apparel and home décor. Two of the festival’s most popular events include the Colt & Filly Review Parade and the Grand Parade of Horses.
Held on the last weekend of September in London, the World Chicken Festival celebrates the life of Kentucky Fried Chicken founder, Harland Sanders. Since 1990, this event has provided visitors a good time with zany contests, including the rooster crowing contest and the Colonel Sanders look-a-like contest, along with live music, rides and of course, plenty delicious chicken.
This list barely scratches the surface of what Kentucky festivals have to offer. No matter the interest, the Bluegrass State has found a way to celebrate it.
