Unleash Your Inner Hillbilly at This Kentucky Festival

To some people, the term "Hillbilly" may be a derogatory name for country folks. In Kentucky, it's worn as a badge of honor. Especially in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky.

In fact, there is a whole festival dedicated to Hillbilly life and the joy that can be found in celebrating things like kin-calling, wrestling, and good ole country music. Toss in a parade, a ferris wheel, and something fried on a stick from Miss Piggy's Pork Shop. You'll be hollerin' "Yeeeeeee-hawwwwwwwww!" like a natural.

Hillbilly Days in Pikeville, KY was founded by two fellas named Shady and Dirty Ears back in 1977. It began as a fundraiser for the Shriners' Children's Hospital in Lexington and has grown to be one of the biggest events in the state. Here's a fun look at what April 24th- 26th will be like this year.

Along with the carnival and stages of free entertainment, The Micro-Wrestling Federation will be brawling, Ohio Valley Wrestling is presenting Appalachian Armageddon, and Dwight Yoakam will be returning home to perform with The Mavericks.

Miss Hillbilly Days will be crowned to lead the Hillbilly parade through downtown. The Appalachian Center for the Arts is hosting an epic facial hair contest because every good Hillibilly has a beard! You can also compete in the kin-calling contest.

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According to the description on their website, this kin-calling contest looks right up my alley,

"Say goodbye to texting and emailing – it's time to embrace the power of good old-fashioned hollering! In this lively contest, we invite you to demonstrate to the judges your most passionate and heartfelt way of calling your significant other, friend, or family member. Let your voice ring out loud and clear as you showcase the depth of your love and devotion. From endearing nicknames to playful shouts of affection, the stage is yours to command."

Locals encourage visitors to check out other Eastern Kentucky attractions while in Pike County for Hillbilly Days. Visit Loretta Lynn's homeplace and the US 23 Country Music Museum. Explore "The Grand Canyon of the South" or learn about the legendary Hatfield & McCoy Feud on the land where it took place.

For a full schedule of events, lists of vendors, etc. click here. Have you ever been to Hillbilly Days? What is your favorite thing about it?