HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The supernatural phenomenon that brought national attention to Christian County is being celebrated once again with Alien Invasion Day on Aug. 21. For years, alien enthusiasts would gather annually in the town of Kelly to share stories about the 1955 Kelly Little Green Men encounter, and this new event is hoping to revive the local curiosity.
“Kelly Little Green Men is a part of Hopkinsville history,” said Visit Hopkinsville Executive Director Amy Rogers. “I’ve always had an obsession with the supernatural and all things paranormal. It’s just interesting and fascinating to witness through the years the number of folks that share in my sentiments.”
Visit Hopkinsville is hosting the event and is promising an out of this world experience that will attract locals and out of town visitors. It will be held at the Hopkinsville Visitors Center, about 15 minutes south of the original encounter site from 4 p.m. through 10 p.m. on Aug 21. There will be food and games, plus people will get a chance to speak to a direct descendant of the Kelly encounter. There will also be a fun screening of E.T. The Extra Terrestrial.
“It’s also impactful, because most folks may not know that the movie E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, was based off the 1955 incident,” Rogers added. “When they are visiting from out of state, we hope their excursions will keep them here for days, therefore, adding revenue to local businesses, such as hotels and restaurants.”
August 21, 1955 encounter
The Kelly Little Green Men encounter is considered one of the most well documented and detailed alien sightings. The small town of Kelly tucked in northern Christian County got its claim to fame after five adults and seven children reported seeing small alien creatures attacking their farmhouse.
Visit Hopkinsville’s website further explains this bit of history, detailing that the residents held off the aliens with gunfire for nearly four hours before reporting the incident to Hopkinsville Police. They claimed to see 12 to 15 short, dark figures popping up in windows and doorways.
This encounter has inspired documentaries, several investigations by ufologists, and extensive interviews with families and locals over the years.
“People have been, and still are drawn to the history and mystery surrounding the account in 1955. Folks have come from all over to learn more about the story and simply connect with their supernatural side. Just like with any part of history, if we continue to tell the story and share all the facts it will never lose its value and will be a story people can share for years to come,” said Rogers.
She is hoping this event will attract an influx of visitors to the area and revive the curiosity of people living in Christian County.
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