Blackie Days draws community, music and safety outreach in Blackie, Kentucky

Mike Woods, the circuit court clerk, welcomed attendees to Blackie Days 2026 and described the festival as a homecoming for people from Letcher County’s Black community. "I'm Mike Woods, your circuit court clerk," he said, calling the event a chance for people "to meet up with their friends and family."

Michael Watts, who said he will be the county attorney starting in January 2026, urged residents to enjoy the festival and other local events. "My name is Michael Watts. I'm gonna be your new county attorney," he said, and invited people to visit the county attorney's office if they need help.

Electric County’s public-safety presence promoted family services at the festival. A speaker identified Electric County Sheriff Billy Jones’s booth and encouraged families to "bring your kids on down and we'll make an ID for them," noting the sheriff’s office had set up a child-ID machine.

Terry Adams, identified as Letcher County judge executive, and other local hosts encouraged attendance at craft and food booths, outlined the day’s entertainment and highlighted community participation. An improvement-committee representative listed booths, thanked sponsors and announced merchandise and pricing, noting T-shirts and caps were $20 each and listing the day’s performance schedule.

The program included the national anthem and a public prayer that thanked volunteers and asked for blessings for veterans and for peace. The event MC announced that the Blackie silent auction had ended and directed winners to check results at the auction table or online.

Performers took the stage throughout the day. Gary, who identified himself as leader of the Country Troubadours, introduced band members and closed with thanks to the audience. A representative of the Kentucky River Regional Animal Shelter said the group was selling shirts and hoodies to raise money for feeding the shelter’s animals.

Organizers urged visitors to patronize vendors, observe safety rules such as no smoking under the tent, and enjoy the lineup of bands scheduled through the afternoon and early evening. The event continued with live music and activities for families.