Fancy Farm: Kentucky's Political Picnic Unveiled

A Tradition of Politics and Barbecue

The highly anticipated day of politics and barbecue is almost here for Kentucky politicos and voters. On the first Saturday in August, federal and state elected officials and candidates will gather at a church picnic to meet with Western Kentucky constituents and skewer their opponents before an often rowdy crowd. This event, known as Fancy Farm, is arriving in less than a week, and there are several key details to know in advance.

What is Fancy Farm?

Fancy Farm is both a town in Western Kentucky and the name of an annual fundraising picnic held by St. Jerome's Catholic Church. The 2025 picnic will be the church's 145th. While the event offers massive amounts of barbecue and family activities, it has also become a significant political gathering. Elected officials and candidates have come to dominate the event, delivering short speeches that are often laced with barbs for competitors and members of the other party.

The political speaking portion of the picnic started in 1931, when A.B. "Happy" Chandler ran for lieutenant governor and popularized the event statewide. Over the years, the picnic has garnered national media attention for its rousing speeches, which are met with cheers and jeers from the crowd. The event also features signature barbecue dishes, including pork and mutton.

Who is Speaking at Fancy Farm 2025?

Ashli Watts, president and CEO of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, will emcee the speeches in 2025. This year, political picnic organizers have made an exception to their traditional rules and invited primary candidates to speak, including those running in the 2026 race to replace outgoing U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell.

On the Republican side, Senate candidates U.S. Rep. Andy Barr, former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron, and businessman Nate Morris have all confirmed they will speak. Democratic state Rep. Pamela Stevenson has declined. Notably, McConnell and Republican U.S. Sen. Rand Paul have not confirmed whether they will attend the event. Neither has Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear. Democratic Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman will not be attending either.

In a statement, spokesperson JT Henderson said while Coleman appreciates the invitation to speak, she believes "it should be reserved for candidates who are currently on the ballot so they can share their vision for the commonwealth with our neighbors in West Kentucky."

Confirmed speakers include:

• Republican state Rep. Kim Holloway
• Republican state Sen. Jason Howell
• Republican U.S. Rep. James Comer
• Democratic candidate John "Drew" Williams, running for Kentucky's 1st Congressional District
• Republican state Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell
• Republican state Treasurer Mark Metcalf

When and Where is Fancy Farm?

Fancy Farm will be held on Saturday, August 2. The political speaking portion is scheduled to start at 2 p.m. Central/3 p.m. Eastern. The event takes place at St. Jerome Catholic Church, located at 20 Ky. Route 339 North in Fancy Farm, which is in Graves County.

This tradition continues to draw attention as a unique blend of community, politics, and Southern hospitality, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of Kentucky’s political scene.