PIKEVILLE – Local leadership has joined forces to plan a highly anticipated three-day Hatfield-McCoy Days event scheduled for Labor Day weekend, Aug. 31 to Sept. 2, 2013.

The Pike County Government, the City of Pikeville, Pike County Tourism, Pikeville Tourism and the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce are all involved in planning, marketing and organizing the event.

“We are looking forward to this event,” Pikeville Mayor Frank Justice said. “I believe it will draw a crowd and be fun for local residents, too.”

Interest in the Hatfield and McCoy Feud grew following the broadcast of the History Channel’s Hatfield & McCoy miniseries in May 2012.  Tourist from across the country visited Pikeville and Pike County to see the sites and hear the stories of America’s most famous feud.  City and county tourism worked together to launch a guided tour in 2012, which proved successful and popular with sold out bookings. 

“Being the most progressive county with the most progressive city in central Appalachia, it’s only fitting this event be held in Pikeville,” Pike County Judge-Executive Wayne T. Rutherford said. “This is the home of the feud and this is where people want to come and see the sites.”

The event will feature arts, crafts, food, a triathlon, a parade and other activities. The Pikeville Rotary Club, Pikeville Kiwanis Club, church groups and other civic and nonprofit organization will be involved.

The event will feature artisans and craftsmen from Pike County and across the region. Organizers are recruiting vendors who feature genuine, handmade products.

“Appalachian art is almost a brand name in itself,” Pikeville City Manager Donovan Blackburn said, who is also chair of Pikeville City Tourism. “The city wants to provide a public venue for artisans and craftsmen to sell and present their work. There is so much talent in this area and sometimes we forget how lucky we are to have so much talent around us. We want to build on our culture and heritage.”

Expanding the arts and cultural opportunities in the community is an ongoing effort of both the county and city governments. The city has worked with the Pikeville/Pike County Artisan Alliance to provide a newly renovated facility in a highly visible location on Hambley Boulevard and has also partnered with the Jenny Wiley Drama Association to construct a new indoor theatre in downtown Pikeville.

“As a city commission, we strive to improve the quality of life for our citizens,” city commissioner and mayor pro-tem Jimmy Carter said. “Events like this are important for that very reason.”

The first-ever Hatfield-McCoy triathlon will be held during the event and organizers are also discussing a fireworks display and a parade.

For over 20 years, Debra Huffman, Pike County Tourism CVB Chairperson, has been educating tourists and the community on the variety of exciting attractions and events our county offers, such as the Hatfield-McCoy Feud sites.

“Throughout the years, our commission has played the role of host, tour guide, historian, and ambassador” Huffman said. “Our common goal has been to shine a light on everything that is unique and wonderful about Pike County, Kentucky. Our rich history of music, theatre and festivals brings folks together, but it is our genuine hospitality that inspires our visitors to return year after year.”

The festival will conclude with a parade on Monday, September 2, 2013.  Additional details for the event, including registration for vendors and the parade application, will be released at a later date.

 Black Widow Paintball offers you a fast paced, thrilling paintball game experience.  We feature both league and open play to fit the needs of anyone wanting to partcipate.  A local paintball league plays every other Saturday using 5 vs. 5 teams. Open play will be Friday, Saturday and Sunday begining at 9 A.M.

Black Widow Paintball is ideal for team buiding, especially if you are looking for something different than the same old activities you have been doing for years. You may have never guessed that Paintball can be a great tool for team building and leadership, but it most definitely is!  Black Widow Paintball enhances group dynamics, breaks down employer/employee barriers, erodes gender barriers, improves morale, and develops company camaraderie. Co-workers return refreshed, rejuvenated, and infused with a new sense of personal ability and corporate team spirit.

The field fee is $15.00, and rentals are $20.  The price includes a marker (tippman 98), chest protector, mask, gloves, neck protector, and one hopper full of paint.

Our field is located on Bob Amos drive in Pikeville just behind the Pikeville Area YMCA. Stop by our office at Cut-Thru Adventures to pay fees and sign waivers or email Sean Cochran for more information at scochran@pikeville.com.

Don’t miss out on this action packed adventure where you are sure to have an exciting time with friends, family, and/or co workers!

The Eastern Kentucky Exposition Center, managed by SMG,  is the leading entertainment, sports, and culture venue in Eastern Kentucky. The 7,000 seat arena has hosted Tim McGraw, Martina McBride, Larry the Cable Guy, Disney on Ice, and many other shows.  However, when you go to the Eastern Kentucky Exposition Center you are investing in much more than just a show.  You are invesing in life long memories that you and your loved ones will treasure.  An experience that you will never forget.

In addition to special shows, the facility hosts a wide variety of sports. The 2011 NAIA National Basketball Champion University of Pikeville Bears calls the building home. The East Kentucky Drillers, a member of the CIFL, plays in the Expo Center bringing indoor professional football to fans. The facility also makes a great location for the regional high school basketball tournament.

Located in downtown Pikeville, the modern facility was completed in 2005. The facility offers a 24,000 square feet arena floor and a 5,000 square feet ballroom area, which can be subdivided.

The facilities provide great accommodations for conferences, conventions, meetings, weddings, and other events. The arena and ballroom are each available for rent. Quality food service is offered to make your event successful.

Free parking is available on the street as posted, in the Pikeville Parking garage, and in the Riverfill area. A pedway is available for visitors utilizing the parking garage. Nearby paid parking may also be available.

Concession stands are located in the main concourse and are open during most public events.

Tickets for most events can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

There are many fields available at Bob Amos. There are two soccer fields, two basketball courts, six tennis courts, track, and baseball/softball fields. The soccer fields and track are also utilized by University of Pikeville and Pikeville High School. The area is open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. during summer. Winter hours are 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. The fields are well lit and restrooms are available.

Shelters, Playgrounds, and Picnic Areas

There are multiple areas with picnic areas, playgrounds, and shelters within the Bob Amos area.

Picnic tables and grills are available at several sites throughout the park. Playgrounds are located at Shelter#2, behind the track, and below Shelter #3. The playground below Shelter #3 includes numerous picnic tables. An accessible playground is available behind the RV Park on Earlene Lane, complete with ADA accessible restrooms.

Shelters#2-5 are located in Bob Amos. The shelters include tables and a grill. Dates are booked early, so reserve a shelter for your event at cityofpikeville.com. Shelter #2 is also home to Cut-Thru Adventures. As noted above, a play area is also located there.

Shelter #3 is located in a beautiful shaded area. A horseshoe area is available. A playground is within walking distance. Parking is available. Primitive restrooms are available.

Shelters#4 and 5 are located at the end of Bob Amos Drive by the Overlook. Shelter #4 is located on the left and Shelter #5 is on the right. This location offers spectacular views of the Pikeville Cut-Through Project and Downtown Pikeville. Parking is available on site. The shelters have lights and water. Primitive restrooms are available onsite.

The Hatfield-McCoy River Trails offers canoe, kayak, and tube rentals and guided tours on the scenic Big Sandy River.   Be the first to conquer the Cut Through, home of the largest earth moving project in the United States.  With multiple options for length of your journey, you can determine the trip that is most enjoyable for you.  If you own your own kayak we offer free shuttle service on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at noon, 2 pm and 4 pm.  Pickup is located at the ramp behind Texas Roadhouse off of Thompson Road in Pikeville.

Enjoy a relaxing paddle boat ride on the Pikeville Pond in beautiful Downtown Pikeville. The dock is located at Trivett Drive by the UK Extension Office.  Fishing is also available on the pond. A Kentucky fishing license is required for persons age 16 years and older.

Book your adventure today by calling (606) 444-5131.  This is a seasonal offering.

A modern playground is available for children of various ages. With several pieces of equipment, the playground can accommodate a crowd. For safety, the playground is equipped with a crumb rubber surface.

The Gazebo is located in the center of the park. The Gazebo rental is available for special gatherings such as weddings, parties, and other events. Availability can be found at CityofPikeville.com.

The City Park Shelter is located near the playground. Tables and a grill are available. Available dates for shelter rental can be found at CityofPikeville.com . One reservation will cover the Gazebo and Shelter.

The park features two water fountains. A statue of Mayor William Hambley, who first envisioned the Pikeville Cut-Through Project, is located there. Visitors will also find a marker for Shriner “Shady” Grader Kinney, co-founder of the Hillbilly Days festival.

Free Wi-Fi is available. The park has picnic tables, paved walkways, beautiful flowers, shade trees, good lighting, and a modern restroom.

Free parking is available on the street as posted, in the Pikeville Parking Garage (access from Hambley Boulevard or Huffman Avenue), or in the Riverfill area (accessed through Division Street).

Park location: Corner of Huffman Avenue and College Street, Pikeville, Ky.

Varsity sports include baseball, softball, men’s and women’s basketball, football, men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s bowling, men’s and women’s cross-country, women’s lacrosse, volleyball, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s tennis and co-ed cheerleading and dance.

Junior varsity sports include baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, football, volleyball, and men’s and women’s soccer.

Athletics Highlights

2011

• NAIA DIV 1 Men’s Basketball National Champion

2008

• USBC ITC Women’s National Champion

2005

• NAIA Football Championship Series Qualifier

2004

• USBC ITC Women’s National Champion

2003

• MSC Women’s Tennis Tournament Champion

2002-2003

• NAIA Women’s Basketball Tournament Qualifier
• MSC Women’s Basketball Regular Season Champion
• NAIA Men’s Basketball Tournament Qualifier
• MSC Men’s Basketball Tournament Champion

2002

• MSC Men’s Tennis Tournament Champion
• MSC Women’s Tennis Tournament Champion

2001

• MSC Men’s Tennis Tournament Champion

2000-2001

• NAIA Men’s Basketball Tournament Final Four Qualifier
• NAIA Men’s Basketball Tournament Qualifier
• MSC Men’s Basketball Tournament Champion
• MSC Men’s Basketball Regular Season Champion

1997-1998

• NAIA Women’s Basketball Tournament Qualifier
• KIAC Women’s Basketball Tournament Champion

Hillbilly Days offers loads of fun for all participants, but there is true meaning behind the event. For 35 years, Shriners have faithfully traveled all over the United States and Canada to help crippled children. So, when you come upon Shriners all decked out in Hillbilly garb or driving one of those modified Hillbilly limousines, remember the children whose lives are being enhanced.

Hillbilly days improves each year as Shriners, the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, Pike County Government, City of Pikeville and local volunteers transform downtown Pikeville into one of the most unique festivals in the world!

2012 Event Dates: April 19 – 21

                                                      Welcome to the page of the Three-Time Award Winning event, Muscle on Main.  2013 is going to bring new things to the event such as car shows, mini truck shows, and some old school drag racing to the Burnouts!  You have got to come see why this event won the Judge’s Recognition Award for Summer of 2012 and now Spring of 2013!

The second Saturday of each month from May through October, the City of Pikeville,  City Tire and Auto, The Good Ole Boys Car Club, and other sponsors host a cruise-in on Main Street and a burnout show in the riverfill.  Join us for this spectacular, award winning event featuring muscle cars, vintage hot rods, new age sports cars and trucks of all ages.  If you’re looking to show off your sweet ride, or flex that muscle, stop by for a fun filled event the entire family will enjoy!

The 2011/2012 seasons exploded with popular block parties held on the Friday night before the cruise-in at different locations throughout the city.  Look for this year’s block parties to be a bigger blast!  Keep checking back for location postings.

2013 Event Dates:

• May 10-11, 2013
• June 7-8, 2013
• July 12-13, 2013
• August 9-10, 2013
• September 13-14, 2013
• October 11-12, 2013

Schedule:

• Block Party: Every Friday at 6:00 PM before an event.
• Cruise-in: 3:00 PM
• Burnout the Riverfill: 7:00 PM

For Event Information contact Jesse Bowling, Director of Tourism and Events for the City of Pikeville at 606-424-6203 or email jbowling@pikevillecity.com.