Raise a Glass, Raise Some Good!
Richmond is giving late summer a proper send-off with guitars, food trucks and a few well-earned toasts, all while raising support for the first responders who answer when an ordinary day takes a difficult turn.
Music With a Local Pulse
The Kentucky Bourbon Jam Music Festival returns Aug. 22 for 12 hours of live music at 830 Eastern Bypass in Richmond. Gates open at 11 a.m., leaving plenty of time to explore the grounds before the evening performances begin and making this an event best approached as a full-day commitment rather than a quick concert stop.
The 2026 lineup leans heavily into Kentucky talent, with music spread across the Bourbon Jam Main Stage and Pit Stage Area. Performers include NBC’s “The Voice” semifinalist Jared Shoemaker with Marshull, headliner Adam Chaffins, Tim Hellard and Rock of Ages, Caleb Mills, Brayden Mullins, Dalton Dailey, McKinleigh Anglin, Cody Fuson, Shane Winkler and 2026 Showdown Tour winner Rhythm Phoenix.
Between sets, attendees can browse the festival’s vendors and food trucks, visit participating breweries and distilleries or retreat to the cooling tent when August begins acting like August. A cornhole tournament adds a little friendly competition, while the third annual Car & Motorcycle Show begins registration at 9 a.m. and continues through 2:30 p.m.
Remembering Who the Day Supports
The music gives Bourbon Jam its soundtrack, but the festival’s purpose runs deeper. Proceeds benefit the local Fraternal Order of Police and volunteer fire departments, connecting a day of entertainment with the people who serve Madison County and surrounding communities.
That mission is especially visible at the Bluegrass Barrel House Honor the Fallen Wall, made possible by Raela Phoenix and Madison Garden Bar & Grill. Community members may submit the names of fallen heroes to be recognized, creating a space where celebration pauses long enough for remembrance.
The event-day information is worth checking before leaving home. Free parking is available in front of and behind Richmond Mall, and golf carts will assist guests who need help reaching the entrance. One folding lawn chair per ticket is permitted, along with small purses subject to security checks. Coolers, backpacks, outside food and drinks are prohibited. Friendly, leashed pets are welcome, and valid identification is required for guests receiving 21-and-older wristbands.
General admission, family packages and VIP passes are available through the festival’s online ticket page. Children 12 and younger receive free admission with a paying adult.
With support from the Richmond Chamber of Commerce, the City of Richmond and the Berea Chamber of Commerce, Bourbon Jam gives Kentuckians a reason to hear local musicians, support homegrown businesses and recognize the first responders who keep their communities moving.
For more celebrations happening throughout the commonwealth, visit the Guide to Kentucky Directory at https://www.guidetokentucky.com/festivals.
