Presented by the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky and Appalachians for Appalachia
September 29 – October 1, 2022: Hazard, Kentucky
The Appalachian Big Ideas Festival is a three-day experience of insightful storytelling, arts and culture, and community building in Hazard, KY.
Join us in one of the most exciting cities in Appalachian Kentucky to hear from national and local thought leaders, see artists create in real time, and enjoy some of the best cuisine Appalachia has to offer!
Appalachian Kentucky is a hotbed for creativity, artists, inspiration, and innovative ideas. During the Festival, we will be exploring the future of affordable housing, entrepreneurship, downtown revitalization, community safety, local food and sustainable agriculture, arts and culture, racial equity, local leadership development, and the BIG IDEAS moving our region forward!
Schedule of Events
Thursday, September 29, 2022
- Reception to welcome sponsors, partners, and presenters.
Friday, September 30, 2022
- Panel discussions
- Local field trips
- Film screenings
- Live public mural making
- Music and dance
- Appalachian foodways
- Exciting keynote speakers
- Community conversations on topics including: Community safety and justice, recovery and workforce development, LGBTQ+ rights, downtown revitalization and sustainable design, racial equity, community safety, place based philanthropy, local agriculture, entrepreneurship, impact investing, leadership development, and creative placemaking
Saturday, October 1, 2022
- Live Music
- Appalachian foodways
- Exciting keynote speakers
- Kids activities
- Live public mural making
- Closing strategy circle for community leaders and funders
Come ready to share your BIG IDEAS for Appalachia’s future, make new connections, and leave inspired to rise where you’re rooted.
Keynote Speaker
Reginald Dwayne Betts
We are excited to welcome Reginald Dwayne Betts to the region for a special performance of his one man show, Felon: An American Washi Tale on Friday night. Mr. Betts is a MacArthur Genius award winning poet, prison reform activist, Yale Law Fellow, and the founder of Freedom Reads.
Tickets
Registration – FREE!
Community conversations, downtown events, and performances at the Big Ideas Festival are free and open to the public…but let us know you’re coming!
Vittles Package – $50
While public programming is free, we will have 2 very special curated meals- don’t miss out! Purchase a Vittles Package and enjoy a special Friday Night Pig Pickin’ & a Saturday Lunch. All meals will highlight Appalachian cuisine and be prepared by regional chefs using locally sourced farm products.
These tickets are limited so don’t snooze on getting your grub on!
Funders Tickets – $250
These tickets are for major donors and foundation staff. Your ticket includes entry to all events, plus a private opening reception, additional meals, and a funders-only closing circle.
Hotel Accommodations
If you’re coming from out of town, we have a block of rooms reserved at the Hampton Inn & Suites in Hazard for September 29, 2022 through October 1, 2022.
Sponsors
Would you like to Sponsor the Big Ideas Festival? Download our sponsorship information here and contact Lora Smith to secure your sponsorship today!
