BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — Get ready for an unforgettable experience at this year’s Martin County Harvest Festival. Organizers have announced headliner acts featuring Nashville recording artist Sam L. Smith, Eddie Jenkins & The 606 Sound, The Webb Twins, and Hillbilly Tradition.
The festival, sponsored by the Martin County Kiwanis Club, is set to take place on Sept. 13-14 in downtown Inez. Kiwanis president Melissa Phelps revealed the exciting headliners during the Kiwanis luncheon Thursday at Masterpiece Kitchen & Café, giving special thanks to Kiwanis member Candy Crum for securing the acts.
Bluegrass enthusiasts are in for a treat with The Webb Twins and Hillbilly Tradition bringing their soul-stirring sounds and musical mastery to the festival’s first night, Sept. 13.
The following night, the up-and-coming Nashville artist Sam L. Smith will headline capping off a performance by Eddie Jenkins & The 606 Sound.
“Sam L. Smith is an emerging star,” Phelps said. “He’s been on ‘American Idol,’ is actively recording, and is on the brink of major success.”
A modern traditionalist country singer, Sam is known for his energetic shows that make audiences stand, clap their hands and tap their toes. Hailing from Mount Sterling, he grew up in a multi-generational family of bluegrass musicians. His music is influenced by country legends Keith Whitley, George Strait and Alan Jackson as well as modern stars Josh Turner and Cody Johnson.
Sam gained significant recognition with his original song “Blue Jackets,” which became an anthem for the Future Farmers of America. Another notable track, “The Way You Make Me Feel,” reached No. 1 on the Independent World Country Charts. His work has been praised for reviving the true country music sound.
He has performed on major stages, including Rupp Arena and Lucas Oil Stadium. He has opened for national acts like Ricky Skaggs, Senora May, Josh Abbott Band, Pam Tillis, Ronnie McDowell and others.
Sam was also a contestant on Season 21 of “American Idol.” His energetic performances have earned him accolades such as nominations for 2022 Country Male Artist of the Year at the Josie Awards and the 2020 ICMA New Artist of the Year. WBCW Florida’s Country Radio Awards named him the Male Artist of the Year in 2020.
On Monday, Sam shared his excitement about playing in Inez, saying, “I look forward to seeing y’all soon.”
Eddie Jenkins & The 606 Sound is a band that has been making waves in the regional music scene, particularly in events across Kentucky. They are known for their engaging performances, while their music style resonates with a blend of traditional and contemporary sounds, appealing to a wide audience.
The Webb Twins are a Kentucky roots musical group. The band consists of Jimmy Webb and Joey Webb, who perform alongside their father, James L. Webb. Known for their authentic and captivating performances, the Webb Twins String Band brings a blend of traditional bluegrass and country music to their audiences. They have performed at various local events and festivals, showcasing their talents and keeping the rich musical heritage of Eastern Kentucky alive.
Hillbilly Tradition is a band rooted in the musical heritage of Kentucky, known for their energetic and authentic performances of bluegrass and traditional Appalachian music. This band is celebrated for its dedication to preserving and reviving the rich musical traditions of the Appalachian region.
Several other performers, including local talents, will be announced in the coming weeks.
“There are more exciting plans in the works and I’ll share details once they’re finalized,” commented Phelps.
After a brief hiatus, the popular Harvest Hustle—a 5K run and 1-mile walk—returns this year, sponsored by Operation Unite. The event kicks off at 9 a.m. on Sept. 14. Stay tuned for more details.
A festival favorite, FTC Wrestling, is also set to return.
“It’s always a hit with the crowd,” stated Phelps. “The wrestling organization loves our enthusiastic crowd and always has a blast.”
The festival will feature a parade, hayrides, carnival rides, free inflatables for kids, and an array of exciting activities for all ages. Festival-goers can explore unique vendor treasures, savor seasonal flavors at various food booths—including funnel cakes from Inez Free Will Baptist and polish sausage from the Martin County Historical Society—and enjoy the famous fresh-squeezed Kiwanis lemonade.
Vendor information
Vendor applications are due by Sept. 1. Forms for craft, retail, and information booths are available on the Martin County Harvest Festival Facebook page and in the Martin County PVA Office. Completed forms must be returned to the PVA Office. For more information, contact Lana Young or Bobby Hale at 298-2807.
Craft, retail, and information booth spaces are 10×10. Vendors must bring their own tables, chairs, tents and lighting. Rates are $50 for craft and retail and $25 for information booths.
Food vendor spots are limited. Contact Lana Young or Bobby Hale at 606-298-2807 for pricing and applications.
Vendors can set up Sept. 12 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. or on the morning of Sept. 13 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. A night security guard will be present, but vendors leave items overnight at their own risk.
Post-festival cleanup is required.
Miss Harvest Fest Pageant
The festivities kick off with the Miss Harvest Festival Pageant, hosted by Eastern Elite Pageantry and Tiffany Hinkle, at noon on Sept. 7 at the Martin County Public Library. The pageant features fall casual wear, with a $75 all-in entry fee covering side awards, fall wear and supremes. Contestants will be invited to ride in the parade on Sept. 14 and appear at halftime of the Harvest Bowl at Cardinal Football Stadium. More details are coming soon.
Save the date
Mark your calendars for Martin County’s largest and longest-running festival—you will not want to miss it.