Fireworks, Hot Air Balloons & More: 10 Can’t-Miss Summer Experiences in Campbellsville-Taylor County

Fireworks, parades, and family-friendly fun—when it comes to celebrating the Fourth of July, Campbellsville pulls out all the stops. The largest Independence Day festival in Kentucky, this six-day affair occurs annually from June 29^th through July 4^th. Watch hot air balloons take to the skies, marvel at the patriotic floats and antique vehicles in the lively parade, sing along to rousing concerts, and stop by the vendor tents for great food and handcrafted wares.  For the kids, check out the Fun Zone. And, of course, the festival concludes with an impressive fireworks show!  

Kicking off the annual Campbellsville-Taylor County Fourth of July Celebration, these hot air balloon experiences are a must if you’re in town for the summer. At the Hot Air Balloon Glow, watch as massive balloons take to the night skies. You can get up close and personal with the balloons, meet the pilots and even snap a selfie in one of the balloon’s baskets. The next morning, watch the balloons fill the skies again over Campbellsville for the Hot Air Balloon Lift-Off!

Aviation enthusiasts flock to Campbellsville’s Taylor County Airport every year for the World’s Grandest Jet Show – Jets Over Kentucky! Watch as pilots from around the world perform thrilling aerial stunts in RC jets that will leave you breathless. Taking place over ten days, you’ll have the opportunity to see over 600 aircraft for free! It’s the perfect family-friendly event to attend this summer.

Nothing says summer like a day at Green River Lake State Park! Spanning over 1,300 acres, this popular spot is located on the shores of the vast Green River Lake. Cool off with a refreshing swim or spend the day on the water – there are three full-service marinas offering pontoon, jet ski and houseboat rentals. Love to fish? Cast a line for smallmouth bass, bluegill, catfish and crappie! Other recreational activities include basketball, volleyball, and miniature golf. For an extended stay, spend the night at one of the many lakeshore campsites.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Campbellsville and Taylor County on the many hiking trails throughout the region. A certified Kentucky Trail Town, Campbellsville has more than 50 miles of trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Stroll along the shores of Green River Lake, explore Clay Hill Memorial Forest, or hike through diverse landscapes like the Blue Heron wetlands on the Tebbs Bend-Green River Nature Trails.

Experience a blast from the past at the many historic sites throughout Campbellsville-Taylor County! Visit the Heistand House-Taylor County Museum, one of twelve German stone houses in Kentucky. Explore the Tebbs Bend Battlefield and Historical Sites on a self-guided driving tour, where you’ll follow the route General John Morgan took after his small victory at the Battle of Tebbs Bend. See Civil War artifacts at the Atkinson-Griffin Log House (a former Civil War hospital in a two-story log cabin), or visit the Taylor Regional Archive Center to research local history and family genealogy.

If you love golf, there’s no better way to spend a summer day than on the green in Campbellsville. Play a round at the par-3 course in Robert and Bernice Miller City Park, tee off in style at the 18-hole course at the Campbellsville Country Club, or for the kids, tackle the 18-hole miniature golf course surrounded by the Kentucky wilderness in Green River Lake State Park.

Take a stroll down Main Street in Historic Downtown Campbellsville and browse the one-of-a-kind boutiques and shops. Search for new and used books at the cozy Sweetwater Bookshop, upgrade your wardrobe for summer at The Elegant Touch, or sip a cappuccino and people-watch from the window of Harden Coffee. Every third Friday night, April through October, check out Cruisin’ on Main,  a family-friendly car and motorcycle show with food vendors!

You won’t go hungry in Campbellsville. From authentic Mexican to good ‘ole Southern cooking, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings on your summer adventures. Indulge in West Kentucky barbecue at Brothers (the tender pulled pork is a must). Grab a quick bite on the go at Knobby’s Deli for fresh salads, sandwiches and pastries. Craving something sweet? A cake pop from Cakes by Camille is sure to hit the spot. And don’t miss out on the famous chicken tenders at Creekside Restaurant.

After spending the day seeing the sights, wind down with a night on the town in Campbellsville. Hang out at the Bourbon Boutique for live music and tasty cocktails (Melon Ball, anyone?). Stop in for a hand-rolled cigar and a drink at Oak & Match, a 1920s-style bar with a private cigar lounge. Chill out with an island-inspired cocktail and groove to live bands and DJs at Tucker’s Tiki Bar. Or, enjoy a night of trivia and karaoke at East First Brewery. Visiting with the kids? Head to the Alley for a night of pizza and bowling!