Frankfort, KY (Sept. 20, 2004)  -- The World Chicken Festival celebrates its 15^th anniversary September 23-26 in London, near the site in Corbin where Colonel Harlan Sanders, the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken, perfected the “secret recipe of herbs and spices” that made him world-famous.

 The festival features over 200 booths, carnival rides, special events, contests, live entertainment and the worlds-largest known stainless steel skillet, serving fried chicken.  (For more information call 800-348-0095.)

            If you’re not in the mood for chicken, you might want to try Marion County Ham Days September 25-26 in Lebanon. In its 35^th year, the event is built around the country ham breakfast, but there’s also a wide variety of music and craft booths, in addition to a parade.  (For more information call 270-692-8727.)

            Still hungry?

            Head to the Western part of the state and try Paducah’s 10^th Ever Barbecue on the River September 24-25.  The annual event is a community charitable event featuring Western Kentucky barbecue, live entertainment, arts and crafts, antiques and collectibles, sidewalk sales and fresh produce at the downtown farmer’s market.  (For more information call 800-723-8224.)

            The Roots & Heritage Festival in Lexington, isn’t about roots you can eat, but the kind from which family trees grow. The 16^th annual festival will be held September 10-26.  (For more information call 800-848-1224).

The Kentucky Department of Tourism, an agency of the Kentucky Commerce Cabinet, exists to promote The Commonwealth as a travel destination, to generate revenue and create jobs for Kentucky’s economy. Tourism is a $9.3 billion business for Kentucky.  It’s the state’s third largest industry and second leading employee.