Kentucky Fried Pickin’ is coming back to downtown Owensboro April 29-May 1 after taking a break from action last year due to the coronavirus pandemic. The annual indoor jam festival is held at Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront.
In 2019, 13 states were represented, as well as the Netherlands, and event organizer Kristy Whiteside is hoping for another great turnout.
“This indoor hotel jam is about the people,” she said. “It’s always great to see who comes yearly and to make new friends with new attendees. It is really great to see how this event is growing and having a great impact on those not only in our community but across the United States.”
This year the organizers are trying to maximize people’s time at the Holiday Inn with things to do. Along with promoting the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum, Whiteside said Ohio County Tourism will also have a booth for attendees to visit.
“A lot of people do not realize the bluegrass history that awaits them in Ohio County with the Monroe Homeplace, Uncle Pen’s cabin, the Bill Monroe Museum and Bill Monroe’s grave — all in about a 30-minute drive,” she said.
At the event, the one-mic jamming room returns and all groups of musicians will sign up to play hour slots on Saturday.
Whiteside said there will be chairs set up for spectators to watch.
“It’s always great to see those in the community come out and watch,” she said.
This year there will also be an outdoor jamming area where attendees can take advantage of the warm weather.
“This will be great as those in the community river walking will be able to hear the music,” Whiteside said.
Burger Theory, located inside the hotel, will also be running menu specials during the event.
KY Fried Pickin’ is a free event for everyone.
“We encourage music lovers to check it out,” Whiteside said. “If you have an instrument you are invited to join on in as there are pickers on every level: beginner, professional and in-between.”
