“Freedom Looks Like Home”
Every now and then, you just want to go home…or somewhere that feels like home. As we are nearing America’s 250th anniversary of the signing of our country’s Declaration of Independence, we are really celebrating what means the most to us and what makes our nation our home. Our freedoms we treasure.
For 50 years, visitors have flocked to Campbellsville and Taylor County to enjoy what Kentucky Living magazine readers have selected as one of the BEST events in the State of Kentucky, and certainly the best patriotic celebration in southern and central Kentucky.
Year after year, the Campbellsville 4th of July extravaganza gets bigger and better, and Campbellsville’s America 250th is set to be the best yet. This patriotic tradition is not just a one-day affair; the fun starts June 27 with gospel music and family picnics and continues through the jaw-dropping fireworks display on July 4.
All week, you’ll enjoy family-friendly events and activities, from dynamic music performances, Campbellsville Cruisin’ on Main classic car shows, a patriotic parade complete with floats, clowns and beauty queens, fun races and games for all age groups, and lots and lots of great food and good times.
Programs, events and details are being developed daily, so check often for an updated schedule for Independence week fun https://campbellsvillefourthofjuly.com/.
Country music fans get ready! Country powerhouse Dillon Carmichael is coming to downtown Campbellsville. Special Guests: Grace Farmer & The Whiskey Shots. July 3rd at 7:00 PM!
While you’re in the historic downtown district, take time to explore Campbellsville KY attractions. The beautiful campus of Campbellsville University anchors one end of the downtown area, adding college town vibrancy and cultural arts venues.
Explore the boutiques and specialty shops in the downtown area for fashionable and maybe even patriotic apparel or a special gift or memento for your home. Or stop into one of Campbellsville’s restaurants or cafes downtown for a delicious meal or cool beverage. If you’re looking for nightlife, you’ll find several local breweries, bars and even a speak-easy for some good ole Kentucky bourbon.
Campbellsville leads the state with the number of finalist nominations for Kentucky Living magazine’s 2026 BEST OF KENTUCKY awards…chosen by readers as the best the state has to offer:
- Event or Festival – Campbellsville 4th of July
- Camping or RV spot – Green River Lake State Park
- Water Tourism – Green River Lake State Park
- Food Truck – The 5000
- Food Truck – Pappy’s
- Barbecue – Brothers
- Best Breakfast Place – Druther’s Restaurant
- Campbellsville Shopping – Downtown Main Street
- Local Radio Host – Larry Smith
- Coffee Shop – Harden Coffee
You should really plan to stay for the week…you won’t run out of things to do or see. You’ll find a great selection of Campbellsville hotels, camping and RV parks, Airbnbs, cabins and rental vacation houses. Book early to reserve the Campbellsville lodging best suited to you and your family.
Between the fun and activities in historic Downtown Campbellsville, there are so many ways to have the best 4th of July holiday. It’s sweet summertime, so plan a Campbellsville outdoor adventure!
There’s lots of things to do on the water near Campbellsville. At Green River Lake State Park, close to downtown Campbellsville, you’ll find a sandy beach to swim and sunbathe or put in your kayak to paddle around the lake. You can also put your own boat – or rent a boat – at Green River Marina for pleasure boating or for some of the best fishing in Central Kentucky. Now that the campgrounds have been restored from last year’s storm damage, sites are available near or on the lake for your tent or RV, the perfect place for hot summer days and cool clear night skies.
Campbellsville has been designated as a Kentucky Trail Town, recognized for more than 50 miles of trails surrounding the city, including walking and hiking trails that meander through historic grounds, horseback riding trails, and biking and trailbike trails around the lake.
The best part of celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary in Campbellsville is that it feels like coming home. To our Kentucky home — the way life should be. Steeped in tradition and good old-fashioned fun and excitement with family and friends, new and old.
Campbellsville is a short distance from favorite Kentucky destinations and an easy drive from all directions.
- Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace in Hodgenville
- Kentucky Bourbon Trail
- Mammoth Cave National Park
- Lexington, Louisville & Kentucky Bluegrass & Horse Country
- Nashville, TN – 135 miles
- Cincinnati OH – 163 miles
- Indianapolis IN – 200 miles
- Atlanta, GA – 320 miles
Put yourself in the middle of everything you love about Kentucky.
Campbellsville!
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