Every year, on the last full weekend of September, Lebanon celebrates the Marion County Country Ham Days. More than 40,000 people descend on Lebanon to enjoy the festivities. Ham Days started back in 1969 when just a few people gathered around a meager 6 country hams.

The centerpiece of the event is still the famous Country Ham Breakfast where more than 4,000lbs of country ham will be served to festival-goers. But, there’s so much more to enjoy than the breakfast. Read on for all the info about food, events and all the fun things to do at the Marion County Country Ham Days.

Ham Days is just one of the fun events happening around Kentucky this weekend. Check out our fall events round-up for more festivals and fall fun around Kentucky! 

Marion County Country Ham Days Event Schedule

The festivities begin the Monday before Ham Days weekend with the Country Store open at the FNB Annex on Main Street and the Champion Ham Judging. But, Friday really kicks off the festivities with a Free Friday concert (for 2022 it’s Grace Farmer & the Whiskey Shots).

Saturday’s festival calendar begins with the famous Ham Breakfast (from 7-11 AM) followed by the Pokey Pig 5K. The Kidz Zone and Funtime Carnival will be open from 9am and live music will grace the main stage throughout the day. the Pigasus Parade will run from 1pm and the evening will be finished with the Heart of Kentucky Hot Air Balloon Glow at Marion County High School, followed up by a family movie night.

Sunday’s calendar is packed full as well with the balloon lift-off, another round of the Country Ham Breakfast, marketplace shopping, food trucks, hay bale toss, tractor pull and live music plus so much more!

Kid-Friendly Fun at Ham Days in Lebanon

There’s fun for all ages at Ham Days, including the youngest festival goers. The Kidz Zone and Fun Time Carnival offer plenty of fun activities to keep the kids busy and entertained. There’s a pedal pull contest on Sunday and of course, the Hot Air Balloon Glow Up (Saturday Night) and Lift-Off (Sunday Morning). Check out the full event schedule for all the details.

Hotels Near Lebanon, Kentucky

If you are looking to book a hotel for your visit to Ham Days, you’ll find there aren’t many options in Lebanon itself. Your best bet for lodging is to book a hotel nearby in Bardstown, Springfield or Campbellsville. Find hotels near Lebanon, Kentucky HERE on Expedia.com.

Event Details:

When:     22-25 September 2022
Where:    Downtown Lebanon, KY
For more information:  Ham Days Website

Check out the Marion County Country Ham Days Event Map here for details on finding your favourite events!