The festival, named after North America’s largest salamander, the “Hellbender” kicks off this Saturday Sept. 5 at Fort Boonesborough State Park. It’s a weeklong event designed to raise awareness and interaction with the Kentucky River and the significance of the Hellbenders, which thrives in clean, healthy waterways.
The festival combines education, recreation, art, music, and hands-on experiences to engage residents of all ages in learning about the importance of protecting Kentucky’s rivers and streams. Through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, educational workshops, guided activities, local artists, conservation organizations, and family-friendly entertainment, participants gain a greater understanding of water quality, native wildlife, watershed conservation, and the everyday actions that help protect these valuable natural resources.
Events planned for the week include a riverbank cleanup and family paddle boat event at Fort Boonesborough State Park from 10 am to 2 pm Saturday. Kayaks and canoes will be available on a first come first served basis. Saturday’s events conclude with “Movie Night by the River,” a free movie from 5 pm to 8 pm at the Old Rock Barn at the Kentucky River Field School with pizza and the movie “Time on the River.”
On Sunday, September 6, a hike and nature walk is slated from 10 am to noon at Lower Howard’s Creek in Clark County. There are many events scheduled later that day and through the week.
The grand finale will take place Saturday, September 12, at Kelley’s Landing in Lexington with a four-mile canoe, kayak and stand-up paddleboard race, and river cleanup. The band “Calamity Jane” will then play at Proud Mary’s Restaurant to close out the festival from 6-10 pm.
T-shirts will be available while supplies last for participants, along with music, vendors, food trucks, and educational activities throughout the week.
For more information on the weeks events visit:
