America 250 Celebration and Veterans Appreciation

Brandenburg is proud to announce its 2026 commemorative plans for the 250th anniversary of the United States. To celebrate this historic milestone, the community will host a series of events centered on military service, including a dedicated veterans' celebration in the Meade County Fair Parade and ongoing efforts to host the Veterans Wall.

A centerpiece of this celebration will be Veterans Banners displayed along the riverfront. Additionally, trees will be planted along Buttermilk Falls Trail in honor of our veterans.

 

Meade County Fair

Ask anyone in Kentucky, and they’ll tell you—the Meade County Fair is the best!  Every summer, thousands flock to enjoy livestock shows, carnival rides, live music, mouthwatering fair food, and some of the best events in the state. If you want a true slice of Kentucky fun, this is the place to be.

 

The Great Pumpkin Pursuit

The Great Pumpkin Pursuit, hosted annually each September at the Roberts Family Farm in Guston, stands as a premier showcase for the incredible skill of giant pumpkin and watermelon growers. This event has gained a reputation for its massive entries—regularly featuring pumpkins weighing over 1,900 pounds—and offers substantial rewards, including $1,000 cash prizes for the top winners.

The 2025 competition reached historic heights when Josh Monin of Grayson County secured first place with a staggering 2,209-pound pumpkin, officially breaking the state record. The pursuit features a "Top 10" prize structure for both heavy pumpkins and giant watermelons, often showcasing the work of local growing legends like Frank Mudd. After the competition, these massive gourds often travel far beyond Kentucky; many are transported to Dollywood to be carved into giant jack-o’-lanterns for their world-famous fall displays.

The event is a true community festival, held in conjunction with the Meade County Cattleman’s Association Beef Cook-Off, where local barbecue experts compete for the title of best in the region. Visitors can enjoy the spectacle of the weigh-ins while sampling elite-level barbecue from the Cattleman’s Association.

 

The Brandenburg Pumpkin Walk

The community spirit of Brandenburg shines brightest the weekend before Halloween during the annual Brandenburg Pumpkin Walk. This festive event transforms the Buttermilk Falls Trail into a glowing wonderland, lined with more than a hundred intricately carved pumpkins created by local artists and Meade County residents.

The magic begins the Thursday prior, when families and creators gather at the riverfront to carve their contributions for this free community display. To complete the experience, local businesses design elaborate decorative fall scenes along the path, making it a truly immersive fall tradition for all ages.

 

Christmas by the River

Celebrate the start of the holiday season on the Saturday following Thanksgiving as the City of Brandenburg hosts its annual Christmas by the River. This festive event transforms our historic Main Street and scenic riverfront into a winter wonderland, illuminated by more than 50,000 twinkling lights. It’s a perfect evening for the whole family, featuring a variety of food trucks, local vendors, and charming attractions like a carousel and a trackless train. Kids can enjoy a bounce house with a slide and live entertainment throughout the evening. Santa Claus himself will make a grand appearance to spread Christmas magic. The night concludes with a spectacular fireworks display over the water once darkness falls.

 

The Meade County History Museum

The Meade County History Museum is a hidden gem in Brandenburg, founded by the Meade County Historical and Archaeological Society (MCHAPS). Housed in the county’s former high school at 281 Oaklawn Road, the museum serves as the primary repository for the region’s rich and colorful heritage, spanning from prehistoric eras to the modern day. Curated by passionate local historians and genealogists, the institution is widely known for its "small but mighty" collection that brings the past to life for every visitor.

The exhibits cover a wide spectrum of local lore and historical events, including the legend of Leah Smock—better known as the Battletown Witch—and detailed accounts of General John Hunt Morgan’s famous 1863 crossing of the Ohio River during the Civil War. Nature and archaeology enthusiasts can explore prehistoric finds such as fossils, minerals, and ancient stone tools—including Clovis points and arrowheads unearthed directly from Meade County soil—as well as the mysterious Brandenburg Stone. The museum further immerses visitors in the past with an authentic pioneer-era cabin setup, nostalgic mercantile store displays, vintage agricultural tools, and a variety of schoolhouse memorabilia. Specialized displays also highlight the impact of the 1974 tornado, local military history, and a collection of Victorian-era toys, baby items, and antique church artifacts.

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Plan Your Trip to Meade County Today!

Whether you’re here for thrills, history, amazing food, or just some time in nature, Meade County has something for everyone. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and come see what makes Meade County, KY, unforgettable.

We’ll save you a spot by the river.