Harrodsburg/Mercer County Tourist Commission

02/11/2025

First Annual Chili Cook-Off
at Lemons Mill Brewery
Saturday, February 15
1:00 p.m.

(Set up will be from 11 a.m. - Noon)

$5.00 entry fee per each chili submitted

-Public invited to attend and sample all chilis and vote for the ‘People’s Choice Winner’

-After tasting is complete chili is available to purchase for $4.00

-100% payout for first and second places

-Judging will be based on taste (Please list if it is hot, also please list ingredients so judges know what to look for when tasting)

-Chili turn in times for judging will be given once all entries have been checked in.

-Please provide 1 crock pot full of chili

-For additional information call 859-265-0872

-Payout will also include an additional $500 from event sponsor Farmers National Bank

02/07/2025

Harrodsburg Rotary Club Pancake Day
Friday, February 7
7:00 a.m - 6:00 p.m.

Location: Mercer County Cooperative Extension Office (1007 Lexington Road)

Cost: $5.00

01/31/2025

We were excited to welcome students from Campbellsville University Harrodsburg’s Sports Management class to the Mercer County Tourist Commission today! During their visit they observed our weekly staff meeting and shared their thoughts on what they’d love to see in our community. We appreciate their input and enthusiasm for shaping the future of Mercer County!

01/31/2025

The Harrodsburg-Mercer County Tourist Commission is proud of the progress we've made in recent years! As we move forward, we're excited to keep building momentum and fostering growth in our community. We're grateful for everyone who has supported our mission and look forward to even greater achievements ahead!

Take a look at what we've accomplished over the past four years and get a glimpse of our vision for the future:

https://www.harrodsburgherald.com/2025/01/30/celebrating-success-a-look-at-the-tourist-commissions-accomplishments-and-vision-for-the-future/?fbclid=IwY2xjawII9K1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHZ2L3_5SBcpMca4nH8WtWqGKTtCRqfqdw3XHf9XKK9ANJ_LGu0rBT51uIw_aem_OMLoMOo4ca7cOytmfLnKgQ

Celebrating Success: A look at the Tourist Commission’s accomplishments and vision for the future By Harrodsburg Herald | January 30, 2025 | 0 The Mercer County Tourist Commission has transformed the local tourism landscape over the past four years, showcasing unparalleled growth, innovation, and ...

01/28/2025

THIS SATURDAY at Lemons Mill Brewery
-Kentucky-Arkansas 🏀 Watch Party
-Live Music
-Dunn's BBQ Pig Roast

Location: 166 Marimon Avenue

Be sure to head to Lemons Mill Brewery this Saturday for a packed night of fun!

6:30 p.m.: Live Music by Skinny Mulligan & Friends

9:00 p.m.: Kentucky vs Arkansas 🏀 Game

*Dunn’s BBQ will be on site selling food, as well as roasting a pig*

01/27/2025

Blackbird Bakery & Cafe GRAND OPENING
Saturday, February 1

10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Located at 225 S. Main Street

For more information and a menu follow Blackbird Bakery & Cafe on Facebook

01/24/2025

2025 Winter Dart League
at Lemons Mill Brewery and The Vault
Beginning February 2025

Rules:
-Teams will consist of 2 people (a third may be added as an alternative)
-League will consist of one match per week (Teams will compete head-to-head in 501 or Cricket)
-League will last 6 weeks (see locations for each week below)
-A running tally of points will be held throughout the length of the league
-At the end of the 6 week season, points will be calculated and a tournament will be held to determine winners
-100% Payback divided according to the number of teams (plus an additional $300 total to be paid by sponsor Monticello Bank, Lemons Mill Brewery and The Vault)

Cost Per Team: $60.00

Schedule/Host
Tuesday, February 4: Lemons Mill
Thursday, February 13: The Vault
Tuesday, February 18: Lemons Mill
Thursday, February 27: The Vault
Tuesday, March 4: Lemons Mill Brewery
Thursday, March 13: The Vault
TOURNAMENT FOLLOWING REGULAR SEASON

Start Time: 7:00 p.m.

Locations/Addresses:
Lemons Mill Brewery – 166 Marimon Avenue
The Vault – 235 S. Main Street

For additional information call
859-265-0872

01/22/2025

NEW EVENT Coming Summer 2025
Fun & Sun Fest
at Anderson-Dean Community Park
Saturday, July 12

The Harrodsburg-Mercer County Tourist Commission is proud to partner with Anderson Dean Community Park this summer to bring central Kentucky’s premier inflatable event for children of all ages! Featuring over 20 inflatables, food trucks, a DJ and much more! This event will be FREE to attend!

For more information and updates on the event follow Sun & Fun Fest on Facebook.

01/21/2025

Harrodsburg-Mercer County Tourist Commission Welcomes New Board Members Kristen Flick and Stacey Maynard

Harrodsburg, KY – The Harrodsburg-Mercer County Tourist Commission is pleased to announce the addition of two new members to its board of directors, Kristen Flick and Stacey Maynard. Both Flick and Maynard bring a wealth of experience and dedication to the continued growth of tourism in the region.

Flick, who the is Vice-President of Hospitality Services at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, began her term on the board in January 2025, replacing Bob Gigliotti as a lodging appointee. A graduate of Transylvania University and Wright State University, Flick resides in Mercer County with her husband, Chris, and their dog, Ronald.

Maynard, who is the Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Harrodsburg, joined the board in October 2024, replacing Tiffany Yeast as the city appointee. A graduate of the University of Kentucky, Maynard lives in Mercer County with her husband, James, and their son, Carter.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kristen and Stacey to the Tourist Commission board,” said Daarik Gray, executive-director of the Harrodsburg-Mercer County Tourist Commission. “Their expertise and commitment to our community will play a vital role in promoting Harrodsburg and Mercer County as a premier destination for visitors.”

The Harrodsburg-Mercer County Tourist Commission oversees efforts to enhance tourism, support local businesses, and preserve the area’s rich history and natural beauty. With these new appointments, the board looks forward to continuing its mission of driving economic growth and fostering a vibrant visitor experience.

For more information, please contact:
Harrodsburg-Mercer County Tourist Commission
Phone: 859-734-2364
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.visitharrodsburgky.com

01/19/2025

The Mercer County Tourist Commission would like to thank Bob Gigliotti for his 5 1/2 years of service on our Board of Directors! Gigliotti, who served as the treasurer of the board, announced his resignation in December.

During his time on the board of directors, the commission had many accomplishments, including giving out over 2.5 million dollars in grants to local events and organizations. Additionally, he was instrumental in assisting with many other projects the commission has completed since 2019.

Thank you, Bob, for all of your contributions to the tourist commission and the Mercer County community!

01/18/2025

This weekend (and Monday) will be full of football action! Be sure to grab a pizza at Papa Smoke Pizza (112 S. Main Street) and then head to Lemons Mill Brewery (166 Marimon Avenue) to enjoy all of the playoff games over the next few days!

Saturday, January 18
4:30 p.m.: Chiefs vs Texans
8:00 p.m.: Lions vs Commanders

Sunday, January 19
3:00 p.m.: Eagles vs Adam’s
6:30 p.m.: Ravens vs Bills

Monday, January 20
College Football National Champship
7:30 p.m.: Ohio State vs Notre Dame

01/16/2025

Mercer County Fair And Horseshow presents
“Let’s Groove” Fair Gala
Saturday, February 22
6:00 p.m.

Gather your friends and head to the annual fair gala on Saturday, February 22! The theme this year is: “Let’s Groove - That 70’s Gala”.

Dinner - Dancing - Drinks - Silent Auction

*Must be 21 years or older to attend*

To purchase tickets visit: https://mfair.photobiz.com/mercer-county-fair-annual-gala

01/13/2025

There is no better way to start your week off than with a coffee and donuts! Stop by Harrod's Perk and Chill (540 N. College Street) and then head next door to King Donuts (584 N. College Street) to get your Monday started! ☕️ 🍩

01/10/2025

It may be cold out now, but warm days are just around the corner, which means it’s time to start booking your summer golf trip!

Bright Leaf Golf Resort has everything you need in one place!

27 Regulation Holes - Restaurant - Lodging - Pool - Par 3 Course w/ Lights - Pro Shop

Get a sneak peek of what’s waiting for you in just a few months – and start planning your trip today! 🏌️‍♂️🏌️‍♀️

To book your trip visit: https://www.brightleafgolfresort.com

01/09/2025

Devine’s Winter Funfest OPEN January 9!
3:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Snow Tubing Cost:
$10.00
2 & Under: FREE

*Tubes provided*

*Concessions available*

Location: 623 Talmage Mayo Road

For more information follow Devine’s Winter Funfest on Facebook or visit https://www.devinescornmaze.com/winterfunfest

01/05/2025

Have you visited our new website? Be sure to check it out below!

Have an event in 2025 you want to add to our website calendar? Email us the event information to [email protected]

Historic vibes, timeless fun! Harrodsburg and Mercer County offer the ideal Kentucky vacation destination. Festivals, Parks, History, and more

01/02/2025

Mercer County Tourist Commission Assistant Director Connor Souder Assumes Additional Role as Sports Director

Harrodsburg, KY – The Mercer County Tourist Commission is proud to announce that Connor Souder, its Assistant Director, will take on an additional role as Sports Director for the community. This strategic move reflects the commission’s commitment to expanding sports tourism and enhancing recreational opportunities in Mercer County.

Souder, a dedicated and innovative leader, has been an integral part of the Tourist Commission, focusing on promoting Mercer County’s rich history, attractions, and events. In his new dual role, he will lead efforts to elevate sports tourism by organizing tournaments, fostering partnerships with athletic organizations, and creating initiatives to attract athletes and visitors to the area.

“This is an exciting opportunity to not only promote Mercer County as a premier tourist destination but also to showcase our community as a hub for sports and recreation,” said Souder. “Sports tourism has tremendous potential to bring people together and generate economic growth, and I’m honored to contribute to this vision.”

Mercer County is already known for its scenic landscapes and historic landmarks, and the addition of a dedicated focus on sports tourism is expected to attract a diverse audience. From youth sports leagues to regional competitions, the expanded efforts aim to highlight the county as a destination for athletes and fans alike.

Mercer County Tourist Commission Executive Director Daarik Gray praised Souder’s leadership, saying, “Connor’s passion for the community and his innovative mindset make him the ideal candidate to take on this additional responsibility. We are confident that his vision will create significant opportunities for Mercer County and set us apart as a sports destination.”

In his capacity as Sports Director, Souder will collaborate with local government, schools, and community organizations to develop and enhance sports infrastructure, host new events, and grow existing programs.

Media Contact:
Daarik Gray
Executive-Director
Mercer County Tourist Commission
859-734-2364
[email protected]
Visitharrodsburgky.com
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About the Mercer County Tourist Commission:
The Mercer County Tourist Commission is dedicated to promoting the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Mercer County, Kentucky. Through innovative programming and partnerships, the commission works to enhance tourism and support the local economy, making Mercer County a must-visit destination.

12/31/2024

🎉 Happy New Year from the Harrodsburg-Mercer County Tourist Commission! 🎉

As we welcome 2025, we can’t help but reflect on what an incredible year it has been for tourism in our community! From hosting amazing events to celebrating the opening of new businesses and welcoming countless visitors, 2024 was truly a year to remember. We were even able to celebrate our community turning 250 years old!

Thank you to everyone who helped make our community such a vibrant and inviting destination. We’re excited to continue building on this momentum in the new year and can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store for Mercer County!

Here’s to another year of growth, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Cheers to 2025! 🥂