Throughout the year, Danville and Boyle County play host to a variety of vibrant festivals and events, each reflecting the rich culture, history, and traditions of this quaint yet dynamic community. From music to food, art to heritage, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the local festival scene.
Great American Brass Band Festival
This beloved festival celebrates the musical heritage of Danville with bands that come from around the country to perform during multiple events over three days. Held annually in early June, the Brass Band Festival includes lively street performances, a grand concert on the lawn at Centre College, a parade and other activities that make this one of Danville’s biggest and most popular events each year.
Find out more about the Brass Band Festival at https://gabbf.org/
Constitution Square Arts Festival
Art enthusiasts rejoice during the Constitution Square Arts Festival, an annual celebration of creativity and craftsmanship. Held in October, this event transforms Danville’s historic Constitution Square into an outdoor gallery, featuring works by local and regional artists. Visitors can peruse paintings, sculptures, pottery, and other handcrafted goods while enjoying live music, food vendors, and interactive art demonstrations. The festival offers a perfect opportunity to support local artists and find unique treasures to take home.
Keep up with Constitution Square Festival plans at www.danvillearts.org
Boyle County Farmers Market
Each Saturday, from May-October, you can visit Constitution Square from 9 a.m.-noon to experience a bustling hub where local farmers, artisans, and vendors come together to showcase their fresh produce, homemade goods, and handcrafted wares. Bring a chair and spend some timing enjoying the weekly live music from the stage, maybe while enjoying breakfast or lunch from one of the food trucks that sets up each week at the farmers market.
See what’s happening at the farmers maker by visiting their Facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/boylecountyfarmersmarket
Snappin’ Chaplin Turtle Derby
Every summer, the small town of Perryville, celebrates this quirky and beloved event, drawing locals and visitors alike to witness the spectacle of racing turtles. Held in the historic downtown area, the Turtle Derby brings together families and friends for a day of fun-filled activities, including the turtle race, games, food vendors, and live entertainment.
Keep up with festivals and events in Perryville on the Main Street Perryville website – https://downtownperryville.com/
Dock Dogs Summer Splash
This high flying, dog jumping event is held annually at The Showroom, with canine enthusiasts and their furry companions showcasing their agility and aquatic prowess. Against the backdrop of cheering spectators, dogs of all breeds and sizes leap fearlessly from dock to water, competing in various categories such as Big Air, Extreme Vertical, and Speed Retrieve. Whether participating or spectating, the Dock Dogs Summer Splash in Danville offers a refreshing blend of excitement and canine camaraderie, making it a highlight of the summer calendar for all who attend.
See what’s happening with Dock Dogs on their Facebook page – www.facebook.com/kentuckydockdogs
Downtown Downbeat concert series
The heartbeat of Danville’s cultural scene pulses to the rhythm of the Downtown Downbeat concert series, a vibrant showcase of musical talent that ignites the historic streets with melody and harmony. Held during the balmy evenings of summer at Weisiger Park, you can experience everything from soulful blues to foot-tapping jazz and everything in between. The Downtown Downbeat concert series epitomizes the essence of Danville: a town where music, culture, and camaraderie intertwine to create unforgettable summer evenings.
Keep up with the latest on the concert series here – https://gabbf.org/downtowndownbeat
Soul of 2nd Street
The Soul of 2nd Street Festival celebrate the town’s African American heritage and cultural legacy. Held annually, it homage to the historic Second Street district, once a thriving center of African American businesses, entertainment, and community life. Through live music, dance performances, art exhibits, and culinary delights, the festival honors the rich contributions of African American culture to the fabric of Danville.
See what is coming up each year at the Soul of 2nd Street Festival on the group’s website – https://www.facebook.com/soulof2ndstreetfestival
Forkland Heritage Festival and Revue
The Forkland Festival, nestled in the picturesque countryside in southern Boyle County, is an annual celebration of the area’s rich heritage and vibrant community spirit. From traditional arts and crafts to mouthwatering homemade cuisine, the festival offers a charming glimpse into the heart of rural Kentucky life. Visitors can explore rows of vendor booths showcasing handmade goods, indulge in delicious Southern comfort food, and enjoy live music that echoes across the rolling hills. The Forkland Festival is not just an event; it’s a cherished tradition that brings together generations, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in the local culture.
Learn more about the festival on the Forkland Community Center’s website – https://rya.uab.mybluehost.me/
Perryville Commemoration events
In western Boyle County, the town of Perryville was the scene of a significant Civil War battle on grounds that are now the Perryville Battlefield Historic Site. Each October, the battlefield and nearby downtown Perryville commemorate this historic battle with reenactments, living history displays, and guided tours of the battlefield.
See what commemoration events are happening each year on the Main Street Perryville website – https://downtownperryville.com/
Boyle County Fair
No list of Danville festivals would be complete without mentioning the Boyle County Fair, a beloved tradition that has been delighting locals for over a century. Held in June, this classic county fair features all the nostalgic attractions one would expect: carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, and of course, plenty of fair food. From funnel cakes to corn dogs, the fair offers a taste of old-fashioned fun for the whole family.
See what is happening at the fair by visiting https://boylefair.com/
Find out dates and details for all of these events and other happenings in Danville and Boyle County at https://danvillekentucky.com/events/