BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — Get ready for a weekend of unforgettable fun and community spirit as the Martin County Harvest Festival unveils an electrifying lineup of events for Sept. 13 and 14 in Inez. From thrilling carnival rides and live music by American Idol winner Noah Thompson to classic car showcases and family fun, this year’s festival promises something for everyone.
Whether you are a local or a visitor, Court Street is the place to be for two days of nonstop entertainment, mouth-watering food and cherished traditions. Mark your calendars and join in the celebration.
Treasure Hunt: The popular Harvest Fest Treasure Hunt kicks off three weeks of excitement beginning Aug. 28. Participants will hunt for treasures guided by three clues released weekly on the front page of the Mountain Citizen. Clues will appear Aug. 28, Sept. 4 and Sept. 11. Prizes include $100 for the first two weeks (Aug. 28 and Sept. 4) and $200 for the final week (Sept. 11).
Carnival Rides: Festival-goers can enjoy at least three carnival rides this year: the Ballistic Swing, Phantom’s Revenge Pirate Ship, and Tubs of Fun. The Kiwanis Club will have an informational booth near the center stage, where attendees can purchase wristbands granting unlimited access to the carnival rides.
Friday, Sept. 13
Harvest Fest Speech Contest: The Harvest Fest Speech Contest will be held at 11 a.m. on the stage behind the Martin County Courthouse.
4-H Pet Show: From 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., the third annual 4-H Pet Show will take the stage. Pet owners can compete in various categories for prizes. Contact the Martin County Extension Office (606-298-7742) or visit the 4H Facebook page for details. All pets must be leashed or caged.
Musical Entertainment:
Della Parsley kicks off the music at 3 p.m.
Arlene Estep follows at 3:30 p.m.
Dewey Moore at 5 p.m.
Sandy Valley Rose performs from 6 to 6:45 p.m.
Jack Ward & The Postmen take the stage from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Headlining the night at 9 p.m. is APPYs winner Hillbilly Tradition, bringing their soulful sound to the festival.
Saturday, Sept. 14
Harvest Hustle 5K Run/Walk and Kid’s 1-Miler: The day begins with the Harvest Hustle 5K Run/Walk and Kid’s 1-Miler at 9 a.m. at 387 E. Main Street.
Registration is available online at runsignup.com/Race/KY/Inez/HarvestHustle1 for a $25 entry fee.
Cruise-In: From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., classic car enthusiasts can enjoy a cruise-in at the First State Bank parking lot. Participants are encouraged to showcase their vintage, antique, and muscle cars at the Harvest Fest Parade afterward. For more information, contact Bill Preece at 606-626-6348.
Entertainment:
Dovie Harless opens the stage at 11:30 a.m.
The Harvest Festival Parade begins at 2 p.m., with the lineup starting at 1 p.m. at the Martin County Swimming Pool.
Jackie’s Gymnastics tumblers will perform at 3 p.m.
Savannah Young entertains at 4:30 p.m.
Eddie Jenkins & The 606 Sound take the stage at 5:30 p.m.
FTC Wrestling brings the action at 6 p.m. behind the Martin County Government Center.
Wesley Young will also perform at 5:30 p.m.
Nashville recording artist Sam L. Smith performs at 7 p.m., promising an energetic show.
The night concludes with American Idol winner Noah Thompson taking the stage at 9 p.m.
Festival Favorites: Returning favorites include hayrides, inflatables, rock wall climbing, a mechanical bull and the world-famous Kiwanis Lemonade. Classic festival treats like funnel cakes and Polish sausage will be available, along with a variety of delicious food and treats.
Vendor Market: Organizers anticipate an even larger turnout for this year’s vendor market. Vendors must register before the Sept. 1 deadline. Applications can be downloaded from the Martin County Harvest Fest Facebook page or picked up at the Martin County PVA office. The cost is $50 for a 10’x10’ space for non-food vendors (alcohol or tobacco sales are not permitted) and $25 for information booths. For more information, contact Lana Young at the PVA office (606-298-2807).
Pre-Festival Event: The Miss Harvest Festival pageant is scheduled for Sept. 7 at noon at the Martin County Public Library/Collier Center. The entry fee is $75, with fall casual attire requested. Contestants will receive crowns and are invited to appear at halftime of the Harvest Fest Bowl on Sept. 13 at Cardinal Stadium and in the Harvest Festival parade. Registration is available online at cognitoforms.com/misseasternelite/missharvestfestival2024. For additional details, contact Tiffany Hinkle on Facebook or by calling 949-430-8540.
Do Not Miss Out: Clip the full schedule from this week’s newspaper, mark your calendars, and get ready for a fantastic weekend of fun. And remember, the Treasure Hunt begins next week right here in the newspaper.
