Turtle Catapulting and Archery? It’s Ernest Day in TN, Vern!

Growing up, I was OBSESSED with Ernest P. Worrell. Watching all of his movies, I saw him save the day from evil trolls and bail Santa out of jail to save Christmas! I even lucked into meeting Jim Varney, the comedy legend who brought Ernest to life, at The Cooker restaurant in Nashville. Little curly-headed kindergartener M-Kat was absolutely star-struck by his sweet smiling face.

10 Things You Didn't Know About KY Actor Jim Varney

My favorite Ernest adventure was, without a doubt, Ernest Goes to Camp, the first in the movie franchise. The lovable goofball portrayed the camp custodian, turned camp counselor assigned to the "second chance" kids and hijinks abound.

Meanwhile, a mining corporation plotted to take over Kamp Kikakee so they can tear it down and dig up the ground underneath. I don't want to spoil anything more just in case you want to watch it (and you definitely should!) It's streaming for free on Amazon Prime right now.

If you love this movie and Ernest P. Worrell, you can celebrate at the annual Ernest Day Festival at Montgomery Bell State Park, where it was filmed in Tennessee.

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Montgomery Bell State Park/FACEBOOK

The team behind this event came up with the idea in 2017, and there is a hilarious assortment of activities throughout the day related to the film for fans to enjoy. The Second Chance Kid's Cabin, Canoe Lake, and Nurse St. Cloud's Cabins are open for tours, as well as the museum, special guests associated with the movie are always in attendance.

Rebecca Goddard

* Birds of Prey Program with Ranger Tim
2:00 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
3:00 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.
4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
5:00 p.m. - 5:45 p.m.

* Archery

Rebecca Goddard

There will be free temporary tattoos, stickers, and face painting while supplies last.

Rebecca Goddard

You definitely don't want to miss out on the Turtle Catapulting! Just like the turtle paratrooper scene from the movie! Organizers want to assure everyone that no turtles are harmed at this event. Jim Varney would not have approved!

*Nature Hikes will be available:
2 p.m.- 3 p.m.,
3:30 pm. - 4: 30 p.m.
5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
(subject to change)

Rebecca Goddard

7:00 p.m. is the Ernest Look Alike Contest!

David Pagano/ The Importance of Being Ernest Film

These are some folks involved in the exciting new documentary being made about Jim Varney and Ernest P. Worrell called The Importance of Being Ernest. You should check them out on Facebook if you are a fan! Varney was an incredible actor and human, which is no surprise as he was also a native Kentuckian!

Rebecca Goddard

7:30 p.m. Questions and Answer Session with actors from the Ernest Franchise!

Rebecca Goddard

David Pagano/ The Importance of Being Ernest Film

Yes, that is a troll head prop from Ernest Scared Stupid! SO COOL!!

Rebecca Goddard

At approximately 8:30 p.m. the "Ernest Goes To Camp" movie will be shown outside. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy the concessions. They even have t-shirts for sale to commemorate the special day. This event is free, but they do accept donations to make future Ernest Days even more amazing and to support the park for hosting the event.

I really hope y'all know the joy of Ernest in your lives! His wholesome nature and silly humor made the world a better place. He holds a special place in my heart, and I know there are lots of others out there who feel the same.

"You know what I mean, Vern?"

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