Sweet Traditions & Small-Town Charm: Springfield’s Sorghum Festival

Every fall, as the leaves turn gold and the air fills with the scent of harvest, Springfield, Kentucky comes alive with one of its most beloved traditions- the Sorghum Festival, the largest event in Washington County. This year, October 3rd, 4th, and 5th will once again transform our historic downtown into a celebration of community, heritage, and small-town charm.

From its roots as a simple harvest gathering, the Sorghum Festival has grown into a weekend-long celebration that captures the best of Springfield- neighbors supporting neighbors, families making memories, and visitors discovering the warmth of Kentucky’s first county west of the Alleghenies.

Friday Night Lights & Music

The festivities kick off Friday with a hearty Farm to City Breakfast at River of Life, a time when friends and farmers gather to share stories and celebrate the season’s bounty. By afternoon, Vendor Row and the Sorghum Kids Festival on Cross Main open up, filling downtown with laughter, local crafts, and the sweet smell of festival food. As the sun sets, the music takes over, with Elizabeth Medley and Sticktight offering free concerts on the main stage to get the weekend rolling.

Saturday: A Day Full of Fun

Saturday morning begins with the Sorghum Shuffle 5K, drawing runners and walkers through scenic Springfield streets. The day unfolds with hometown favorites like the Prince and Princess Contest, barnyard games (frog jumping and hay bale throwing are always crowd-pleasers!), and the lively parade that fills Main Street with color and pride. Families gather for the dog show, while music lovers settle in for an evening of live performances, featuring Trey Washburn, M.W. Hale & The Sorrowed Sons, and headliner JD Shelburne, whose concert brings the whole community together under the stars.

Sunday in the Spirit of Community

Sunday morning sets a joyful tone with Praise Fest on the main stage and a traditional Sorghum Breakfast that feels like coming home. The fun keeps rolling with the quirky and crowd-favorite Sorghum Mullet Contest and the high-energy Oil Pro’s Burn Out Contest. For car enthusiasts, the Sorghum Classic Cruise-In invites visitors to admire gleaming chrome and classic engines along Lower Cross Main.

Why the Sorghum Festival Matters

More than just an event, the Sorghum Festival is a reflection of Springfield’s spirit. It’s about celebrating our heritage while welcoming new faces to experience the joy of small-town living. From the local vendors lining Vendor Row to the families who plan their year around the parade, this festival is built on community support and pride in our historic county.

So, whether you’re here to run the 5K, tap your feet to free live music, or simply savor a plate of sorghum biscuits and gravy, the Sorghum Festival promises something special for everyone. Come join us in Springfield—where tradition is sweet, and community is even sweeter.