Handy Fest Underway in Henderson

WNIN | By John Gibson

Published June 17, 2026 at 10:42 AM CDT

Members of Reverend Payton's Big Damn Band. They perform Friday (June 19, 2026) at 3 p.m. in Henderson's Audubon Mill Park

The W.C. Handy Blues and Barbecue Fest continues though Saturday in Audubon Mill Park on Henderson KY's riverfront

Four days of live music, food and drink are underway on the Henderson riverfront. WNIN’s John Gibson has more:

After lunchtime performances that have already begun, the 35^th annual W.C. Handy Blues and Barbecue Festival gets underway in earnest at 5 p.m. Wednesday in Audubon Mill Park

The opening night performers are Ghalia Volt, Piper and the Hard Times, and the Texas Headhunters:

(music)

Thursday is the popular Zydeco night, and then performances begin at noon Friday and Saturday.

Friday night’s performers include Tommy Castro and the Painkillers, while Saturday night’s headliners include Shemekia Copeland:

(music)

Organizers say Handy Fest remains one of the biggest free music festivals in the nation, with help from donations.

They describe it as a family-friendly event.

No pets or coolers are allowed in the park
during the fest.

The Record Company performs at 9 p.m. Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the W.C. Handy Blues and Barbecue Fest in Henderson, KY