HOPKINSVILLE, KY – Hopkinsville Parks and Recreation is proud to announce the return of the 2026 Summer Salute Festival, taking place Friday, Sept. 11, and Saturday, Sept. 12, in downtown Hopkinsville. The two-day festival will feature nationally recognized entertainment, family attractions, delicious food, shopping, and activities for all ages.

Leading off this year’s entertainment lineup is Hollywood Swinging-A Tribute to Kool & the Gang, headlining Friday night with an energetic performance celebrating one of the most iconic funk and R&B bands of all time. The ’77 Experience will open the evening with a mix of classic hits and crowd favorites.

On Saturday night, country music star Chris Janson takes the Summer Salute stage as the festival’s headliner. Known for chart-topping hits including “Buy Me a Boat,” “Fix a Drink,” and “Good Vibes,” Janson has become one of country music’s most exciting live performers. Opening Saturday’s concert will be rising country artist Harper Grace, whose powerful vocals and engaging stage presence have quickly earned national attention.

“Summer Salute has become one of Hopkinsville’s signature events, bringing together our community while welcoming visitors from across the region,” said Toby Hudson, Superintendent of Hopkinsville Parks & Recreation. “This year’s entertainment lineup, combined with family activities and great food, promises to make 2026 one of our best festivals yet.”

What you’ll find at Summer Salute

Summer Salute Festival continues to celebrate the spirit of Hopkinsville by offering free family entertainment, outstanding live music, local food vendors, shopping opportunities, and a vibrant downtown atmosphere. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to bring their families and enjoy one of Western Kentucky’s premier community festivals.

Festival activities begin each day at 11 a.m., with food and merchandise vendors open throughout downtown.

Friday schedule:

  • 11:00 a.m. – Festival Opens (all food and merchandise vendors)
  • 12:00 p.m. – Carnival/Bounce Zone opens
  • 2:00 p.m. – Beer Garden open (Justice Center location)
  • 5:00 p.m. – Concert seating areas (GA and VIP) open at Justice Center
  • 6:00-9:45 p.m. – FRIDAY NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT
    • 6:00-7:30 p.m.-The ’77 Experience opens the evening at Justice Center
    • 8:00-9:30 p.m. – Hollywood Swinging, Tribute to Kool and the Gang headlines the music at Justice Center
  • 8:00 p.m. – Bounce Zone closes
  • 10:00 p.m. – Festival Closes (all food and merchandise vendors)

Saturday schedule:

  • 11:00 a.m. – Festival Opens (all food and merchandise vendors)
  • 12:00 p.m. – Carnival/Bounce Zone opens
  • 2:00 p.m. – Beer Garden open (Justice Center location)
  • 5:00 p.m. – Concert seating areas (GA and VIP) open at Justice Center
  • 6:00-9:45 p.m. – SATURDAY NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT
    • 6:00-7:30 p.m. – Harper Grace opens the evening at Justice Center
    • 8:00-9:30 p.m. – Chris Janson headlines the music at Justice Center
  • 8:00 p.m. – Bounce Zone closes
  • 10:00 p.m. – Festival Closes (all food and merchandise vendors)

For more information, contact Hopkinsville Parks & Recreation at lnfo-Parks-and-Rec@h-ky.us, or visit our website at https://hoptownsummersalute.com/.

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