Get your overalls ready and practice your hillbilly accent in front of the mirror, because Hillbilly Days is returning to downtown Pikeville from April 16–18, 2026!

Known as “The Festival with a Heart,” this isn’t just one of the largest festivals in Kentucky; it’s a massive community effort that benefits the Shriners Children’s hospital. For three days (plus a “sneak peek” carnival night), Pikeville transforms into a vibrant celebration of Appalachian culture, music, food, and family fun.

If you’re planning your trip to Pike County, here’s a look at what’s in store for 2026.

1. The Carnival Kicks Off Early

While the main festival starts on Thursday, the fun begins a night early! The Hillbilly Days Carnival at the Riverfill opens on Wednesday, April 15, at 6:00 p.m. Featuring “America’s Cleanest and Brightest Midway” by Big Rock Amusements, you can expect thrilling rides, classic games, and that neon glow that signals spring has officially arrived in Eastern Kentucky.

2. Music on Every Corner

One of the hallmarks of Hillbilly Days is the music. In 2026, we’ll have four stages of free live entertainment throughout downtown:

• Pikeville City Park (Gazebo Stage): Featuring Bluegrass, Gospel, and Folk.
• Pike County Courthouse Square: A mix of Country, Bluegrass, and Bluegrass Gospel.
• Mountain Top Media Stage: Where you’ll find Southern Rock and high-energy performances.
• Bootlegger’s Alley: Country music vibes to pair with local spirits.

Check out the full music schedule for Hillbilly Days here.

The Big Event: Don’t miss the Saturday night headliner! The Marshall Tucker Band will be bringing their “While I’m Young Tour 2026” to the Appalachian Wireless Arena on Saturday, April 18. Get your tickets here.

3. Iconic Traditions

You haven’t truly experienced Hillbilly Days until you’ve seen the Hillbilly Parade. Happening on Saturday at 2:00 p.m., the parade features “Hillbilly Limousines” (unique jalopies), local Shriners in their finest (and wildest) attire, and plenty of candy for the kids.

Other must-see traditions include:

• The Hillbilly Breakfast: Start your Friday morning (8:00 a.m.) at the Masonic Lodge for a hearty meal with the Shriners.
• Stump Speaking: Head to the Courthouse Square on Saturday morning to hear local “stump speakers” carry on this classic political and social tradition.
• Beard and Mustache Contest: Think your facial hair is festival-worthy? Check out the contest on Friday!

Check out the full events list for Hillbilly Days 2026 here.

4. Fun for the “Little Hillbillies”

The Family Fun Zone is the place to be if you have kids in tow. For 2026, the Dino-ROAR! interactive dinosaur show is returning, featuring baby dinos and a growing T-Rex. There’s also the Hillbilly Pageant leading up to the event and plenty of face painting and interactive games to keep the little ones entertained.

5. Food, Crafts, and “Shine”

Come hungry! The streets will be lined with vendors serving up festival favorites: funnel cakes, deep-fried Oreos, BBQ, and local specialties.

• Artisans Village: Located in the downtown parking garage, this is the spot to find handmade Appalachian crafts, from coal figurines to hand-crafted candles.
• Bootlegger’s Alley: For the grown-ups, this area features local breweries and distilleries, offering a taste of the region’s best spirits.

6. Opening with a Bang

The sky will light up on Thursday night with the Appalachian Wireless Fireworks Show. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the festival’s opening day and can be viewed from almost anywhere in the downtown area.

Plan Your Visit

With over 100,000 people expected to visit, we recommend booking your stay early! Check out our Lodging Page for the best places to stay in Pike County.

Pro-Tip: Make sure to keep your eyes on the official HillbillyDays.com website for the most up-to-date schedule, vendor maps, and concert ticket information.

We can’t wait to see you in Pikeville this April. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, Hillbilly Days 2026 is going to be one for the history books!

Hillbilly Days 2026 Brochure

Want a more complete schedule of Hillbilly Days 2026? Feel free to download the Hillbilly Days 2026 brochure, or request your free Hillbilly Days 2026 brochure to be mailed to you.