The Rural Heritage Tobacco Festival Is Here, Sept. 6 & 7

The time has come for the Garrard County Rural Heritage Tobacco Festival, a community event that brings together the rich heritage of Lancaster with a weekend packed full of entertainment, food, and fun activities. 

Scheduled for today and tomorrow, September 6-7, this year’s festival promises a diverse array of attractions, offering something for everyone in the family.

Set against the backdrop of Garrard County’s tobacco heritage, this two-day festival is not just a nod to history but a celebration of community, culture, and shared experiences. With activities ranging from live music to helicopter and hot-air balloon rides, attendees will have no shortage of ways to enjoy the weekend.

Visitors can look forward to carnival rides, games, food vendors, and even a circus performance. For those looking for a more unique experience, there will be hot air balloon rides and helicopter rides available, offering breathtaking views of the scenic Kentucky landscape.

Children and adults alike will enjoy a magician performance, sure to dazzle with illusions and tricks. Wrestling matches will also be on the agenda, providing a dose of excitement for sports enthusiasts. Carnival rides and games will be spread throughout the grounds, creating a lively, festival atmosphere.

On September 7, the Lancaster Grand Theatre will host an exciting lineup of musical talent. Performers include local favorite Brittany Martinez and The Revelation Band, country artist Cody McCarver, and Christian music sensation Micah Tyler. This diverse mix of performers will ensure that festival-goers are treated to a memorable evening of live music, ranging from soulful country to uplifting contemporary tunes.

One of the highlights of the weekend is sure to be the festival parade on September 7, featuring this year’s theme: “Epcot: Connecting Cultures and Creating Futures.” The parade celebrates unity and cultural appreciation, in line with the spirit of the broader festival.

The parade will begin at 12:00 PM, with line-up starting at 9:00 AM and ending at 11:00 AM. Participants will need to complete a registration form upon arrival, which will include information on all passengers and drivers. The parade will feature floats, ATVs, horses, and more, as the community comes together to celebrate its shared history and future aspirations.

Prizes will be awarded to the best parade entries, with first place receiving $400, second place $300, and third place $200. Additionally, special awards will be given for "Best in Show" ($100), "Best ATV" ($50), and "Best Horse" ($50).

With its wide range of activities and entertainment, the Garrard County Rural Heritage Tobacco Festival is shaping up to be a weekend of joy, connection, and community spirit. Whether you come for the music, the rides, the parade, or just to enjoy the lively atmosphere, the festival offers an opportunity for families, friends, and neighbors to come together and celebrate the best of what rural Kentucky has to offer.

Mark your calendars for September 6-7, and get ready to experience a weekend filled with fun, food, and festivities in Lancaster. The festival truly promises to be an unforgettable celebration of heritage and community.