Forest Fest 2011: Jefferson Memorial Forest Festival Celebrates State Heritage
Louisville Metro Parks will host Forest Fest 2011 at Jefferson Memorial Forest on Saturday, May 21. The free Forest Fest 2011 event starts at 10:30 a.m. and will feature music performed by some of the best local, regional and national bluegrass bands from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The event is made possible with the support of Louisville Metro Council Members and is presented by Councilwoman Vicki Welch.
In 2004, the first Forest Fest brought 120 attendees to Jefferson Memorial Forest, then referred to as "Louisville’s best kept secret" according to Tonya Swan, Supervisor of Education for the Forest. Swan said the event still holds true to the guiding principles established in 2004 -- it’s family friendly and showcases community heritage and craftsmanship.
"At the time, no one else was hosting a bluegrass festival," said Swan. "It was the perfect time."
Bluegrass music is just one of the Kentucky art forms showcased at the festival. In addition to a full roster of performances from Relic, the High Rollers, Bluegrass 101 and The Grascals, local artisans will display and sell arts and crafts and food will come from Fairdale’s own Shack in the Back BBQ and Erhler's Ice Cream.
“Supporting our community is always a plus for us,” said Swan.
Children’s activities include an inflatable for jumping, free balloons and games, and face painting for a small fee. A scavenger hunt scheduled for 1:30 p.m. is a great way for families to explore the forest together, said Swan. The first place prize is a free week of summer camp worth $125.
Swan said she expects 3,000-4,000 attendees this year.
“Most people come because they know this event is about families, good music, art and nature, so why would they need anything else to have a good time?” she said.
Posted on May 4, 2011 by Katie Doyle
