The Cave Run Storytelling Festival, one of the region’s most popular annual events, returns to Rowan County for its 24th year. Regular visitors have the opportunity to see many familiar storytellers and new faces, including West Virginia native Bil Lepp, musician Rev. Robert Jones Sr., and many more.
Organizers said the festival is about spreading the tradition of oral storytelling, making it an important reason for people from around the world to visit Morehead.
Jasmyne Lewis is the director of the Cave Run Storytelling Festival. She said the gathering attracts thousands of people each year, giving the town’s economy a big boost.
“They spend money in our community. They camp at Cave Run Lake, they participate in the activities there, they go boating,” Lewis said. “And then they come into town and see what there is to do. They visit our stores, they go to Coffee Tree Books, they check out Morehead State University. All of these things just bring people back to the community.”
With those crowds also comes increased foot traffic. Lewis said both city residents and festival-goers should prepare for an influx of people this weekend.
“Be aware of your surroundings and your location. Remember, your GPS navigation is not accurate enough to take you to this Twin Knobbs camp, so pay attention to our signs. We have some posted along the trail. Drive slowly. Make sure you know exactly where you are going. And watch for deer!” Lewis said.
Lewis said thousands of people attend the festival each year, including elementary school classes, Eastern Kentucky locals and tourists from across the country.
This year’s festival will be held Friday, September 27th and Saturday, September 28th at the Twin Knobs Recreation Area on Cave Run Lake. Advance tickets are available through September 21st, and tickets will also be available at the gate. Admission is free for volunteers, and Lewis encouraged anyone interested to sign up to help. Events begin at 9:45 a.m. each day and continue through the evening.
For more information about the festival and how to volunteer, visit the Cave Run Storytelling Festival website.
