Garrard Central Record

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Rural Heritage Tobacco Festival Coming This Weekend

The highly anticipated Rural Heritage Tobacco Festival is back, and this year promises to be unlike any other! 

For the first time ever, KY 52 will be closed in the square for the event, with the street packed with vendors and activities.

In recent years, the festival has undergone significant changes and improvements, all thanks to the dedicated efforts of current and past organizers, as well as community volunteers. 

President of the planning committee Leonard Harrison proudly shared, "Over the last two years, we've really got organized. We've built better systems, and because of that, we've been able to capitalize on vendors we've used in the past and to promote in such a way that encourages vendors to join us."

One of the most remarkable developments this year is the number of vendors participating. Harrison revealed, "We have sold 185 spots so far this year." 

This staggering number is a significant jump from previous years, demonstrating the growing popularity and appeal of the festival. 

To put this in perspective, the number of vendors in 2022 was 84, meaning there are more than double the vendors this year, showcasing an incredible increase in interest.

The exponential growth in vendors is attributed to the festival's success in the past years and the enhanced organization. 

Harrison explained, "Having a better organization last year made a lot of vendors want to come forward. We even received calls from vendors who had used the festival in the past, wanting to try it again."

The Rural Heritage Tobacco Festival has always been a melting pot of diverse and exciting attractions, and this year is no different. 

Harrison shared some of the unique additions, "We're gonna have a magician doing street magic, live and in person, interacting with the audience. That's something we had last year, and he's coming back, much to the delight of our visitors. Additionally, we're introducing a ventriloquist this year, which is sure to be a hit and provide something new for everyone to enjoy."

For those seeking thrills, the festival will bring back the popular carnival rides, horseback rides, helicopter rides, wrestling and other crowd-favorites from last year will also be available for those looking to explore the festival grounds.

Harrison’s enthusiasm extended beyond the festival's immediate impact, as he expressed his hopes for its future, saying, "We want to draw in counties that are outside of our community. It showcases our town and the stores in our square so that it generates revenue for our city."

He emphasized that the success of the festival lies in the support of the local community. 

"None of it would be possible without the citizens of Garrard County coming out and supporting these vendors. It's so vital that our community shows up for these events so that they can be successful," Harrison stated.

With so much to offer and a growing number of vendors, the Rural Heritage Tobacco Festival promises an unforgettable experience for all attendees. Whether you're a fan of magic, carnival rides, unique entertainment, or just soaking in the rich rural heritage, this festival has something to offer everyone.

So mark your calendars and make your way to Garrard County for the Rural Heritage Tobacco Festival. Join in celebrating the best of Garrard’s heritage, supporting local vendors and creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Schedule of Events

Friday & Saturday, August 25 & 26

Friday, August 25:

  • Horse Riding - All Day

  • Carnival - All Day at First Southern parking lot

  • Bouncy Houses - All Day on Highway 52 with inflatables

  • Mechanical Bull - All Day on Highway 52 with inflatables

  • Street Magic - All Day

  • Kids Swimming - All Day behind courthouse

  • Helicopter Rides - All Day next to First Southern

  • Train Rides - All Day

  • Wrestling - 6:00 PM at courthouse fountain

  • Talent Show Sign Up - 6:30 PM at old courthouse

  • Talent Show - 7:30 PM at old courthouse (Prizes: $500, $200, $100, People's choice: $50)

Saturday, August 26:

  • Sports Card Show - 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM at First Southern Community Room

  • Car Show - 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM at courthouse parking lot

  • Parade line-up - 10 AM - 12:00 PM at Garrard Middle School

  • Parade (Theme: Glory Days) - 12:00 PM 

  • Horse Riding - All Day

  • Carnival - All Day at First Southern parking lot

  • Bouncy Houses - All Day on Highway 52 with inflatables

  • Mechanical Bull - All Day on Highway 52 with inflatables

  • Street Magic - All Day

  • Kids Swimming - All Day behind courthouse

  • Helicopter Rides - All Day next to First Southern

  • Train Rides - All Day

  • Wrestling - 1:00 PM at Courthouse Fountain

  • Corn Hole Tournament - 6:00 PM

  • Deal or No Deal - 6:45 PM at Old Courthouse

  • Fireworks - Night Time

Music at Old Courthouse Saturday:

  • 1:00 - 3:00 PM - Triple Shot

  • 3:00 - 4:00 PM - Ventriloquist

  • 4:00 - 5:00 PM - Jennifer Johnson

  • 5:00 - 6:00 PM - LBP

  • 6:00 - 6:45 PM - Brittany Martinez

  • 7:00 - 9:00 PM - Trailer Trash

  • 9:00 - 11:00 PM - Brad Hardin (Full Band)

This should help attendees navigate the plethora of events on offer. Please note that some events run simultaneously, so attendees might have to make choices depending on their preferences.


(The parade event offers an exciting array of prizes to recognize participants' outstanding contributions. Floats take center stage, with the top performers earning cash rewards. The first-place float garners the grand prize of $500, showcasing the best creativity and execution. A generous sum of $300 awaits the second-place float, commending its exceptional presentation and design. The third-place float receives a prize of $200, honoring its remarkable efforts. In addition to the float category, other vehicles and animals also have their chance to shine. The best golf cart, ATV/UTV, and horse each have the opportunity to claim the distinguished title, accompanied by a prize of $50. Moreover, the coveted "Best in Show" award, recognizing the pinnacle of excellence across all parade participants, is accompanied by a $50 cash prize. Together, these prizes serve as tokens of appreciation for the participants' hard work and dedication, adding to the excitement and celebration of the parade event.)