Our state is filled with long running traditions that have continued over generations. In fact, many would say that it's these tried and true events, gatherings, and celebrations that give Kentucky so much character. If you've been in the Bluegrass State for awhile, you likely already participate in some of these traditions and one of the most festive is Country Ham Days in Marion County. This massive fall festival is held in the charming city of Lebanon each year and in 2019 it will celebrate its 50th year! Country Ham Days in Kentucky offers delicious food and small town fun and you should join thousands of your neighbors at the celebration this year.

Lebanon is known as the "Heart of Kentucky" and there are many ways this proves to be true.

This charming small town has a lot to offer including horse farms, quilt barn tours, restaurants, outdoor activities, and more. And during the last weekend of September, the town and county always celebrate in a big way with Country Ham Days.

Country Ham Days celebrates 50 years this year, since it all began back in 1969.

Back then, the gathering began with just a few hams and volunteers, but it has grown to welcome over 40,000 visitors to the event. This year the activities begin on September 21st, but the main festival takes place September 27th - 29th.

Of course you'll find all things ham at the festival, including a contest for the best country ham in town.

If it seems odd to host a festival that celebrates a type of meat, then you probably haven't tasted Kentucky's famous country ham. You'll have the opportunity to do so at the festival, as well as a chance to participate in a number of other activities.

One of the most favorite traditions are the Country Ham Breakfasts, which take place on the mornings of the 28th and 29th.

For just $10 you can chow down on country ham, eggs, biscuits, red eye gravy, and baked apples. It's a classic southern breakfast that you can share with thousands of your newest friends.

The number of events throughout Country Ham Days is quite impressive.

You can see the entire schedule on the website linked below, but some of the highlights are the Pokey Pig 5K, concerts, a kids zone, car, truck, and tractor shows, and more. Whether you are local or are just visiting for the festival, there is plenty to do during the weekend.

And a must-see event during Country Ham Days is the Pigasus Parade, which is held on Saturday at 1 p.m.

This Main Street parade is a classic and thousands will line the streets to see a variety of participants. If you love a parade, this is one of the best in the state.

And to wrap up your festive Saturday, be sure to visit the Hot Air Balloon Glow from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The balloons will then lift off on Sunday morning at 7:30 a.m., which is quite a sight to see. Country Ham Days in Kentucky is such a charming, family-friendly event, and a great way to celebrate the food and fun to be had in the Bluegrass this fall.

Country Ham Days in Kentucky is a unique festival that's been around for 50 years. It had humble beginnings, but now attracts over 40,000 visitors to the small town of Lebanon each year. If you love country ham or even if you just love everything about fall festivals in Kentucky, then check it out this year. Is Marion County Country Ham Days already one of your Kentucky traditions? Let us know in the comments!

For more information on the festival, including its multi-day schedule, visit its website here. And for more on the town of Lebanon, visit here.

And if you're now craving country ham, try some of the best in the state, featured in our previous article here.