City of Kennesaw Community Events

SPRING/ SUMMER

April

Big Shanty Festival
Downtown Kennesaw
The City’s biggest event of the year, this annual two-day Festival features over 250 crafters, artisans, and vendors as well as live entertainment on two stages, a Civil War encampment, children’s activities, and 30 food booths. It starts with a parade featuring local high school bands and over 1,000 young marchers. Admission is free.

May

Outdoor Movie Series
Swift-Cantrell Park
Catch three Saturday evening family-friendly films “on the green” at Swift-Cantrell Park on a giant inflatable screen. Bring lawn chairs, a blanket and a picnic dinner or enjoy concessions available at the park. Movies start at dark. Admission is free.

May-September

Summer Outdoor Concert Series
The Historic Train Depot Join us for a great season of free outdoor music performed by popular local bands. Concertgoers can enjoy the music from any number of vantage points - and always have a good view of the performers. Tables directly in front of the performance area are available to rent. Concerts begin at 8 p.m. on selected Saturday evenings.

May - October

Farmers Market Main Street Downtown
Local farmers offer fresh picked seasonal produce, homemade baked goods and jellies and jams every Tuesday morning during growing season.

June

Electronics Recycling Day Adams Park
Bring your junk computers, printers, phones and small appliances to be recycled at this annual Saturday event sponsored by the Environmental Committee.

August

Pigs & Peaches Festival
Ben Robertson Community Center
This BBQ competition is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society and showcases plenty of barbequed meat and delicious treats as well as live entertainment. Cash prizes are offered in several categories. Select competitors sell their smokecooked delicacies, so come hungry!

Program Palooza & Citywide Picnic
Ben Robertson Community Center
Explore the City’s gymnastics, dance and fitness programs and delight in the quality and diversity of the Parks & Recreation program offerings at this Saturday event. Meet instructors, take part in free demonstrations, tour the Center facilities and become eligible for discounts on classes or workshops. Live entertainment, free food and giveaways are provided.

FALL/WINTER

September

A Taste of Kennesaw
Downtown Kennesaw
This is your opportunity to sample the delicious culinary offerings of local restaurants.

Community Book, CD and DVD Swap
Ben Robertson Community Center
During this two day event, you can drop off items to swap on Friday, then come out Saturday and make your selections.

October

Folk Tales of the Rails
The Historic Train Depot
Gather round a campfire and meet rustic cowboys, Civil War soldiers and Native American storytellers as you observe living history and listen to master storytellers weave tales inspired by fact and fiction. This Saturday event also features folklore, music, crafts, poetry and entertainment. Food is available for purchase.

Incredible Pumpkin Trail
The Historic Train Depot
The walking path near the Depot comes alive with a grand illumination of pumpkins. Everyone is invited to contribute their time and talents to produce the Trail by creating unique, colorful and playful pumpkin displays. The displays are judged on originality, creativity, craftsmanship and overall presentation and ribbons are awarded in each category.

November - December

Christmas Tree Decorating
Contest/ City Tree Lighting

The Historic Train Depot
The Depot Park is transformed into a forest of beautiful and creatively decorated Christmas trees. 40 full-sized trees are decorated by area businesses, school groups and churches and are judged on originality, creativity, use of materials and overall presentation. Prizes are awarded at the Lighting of the City Tree event, which also features inspirational musical performances, caroling and free hot beverages and cookies.

December

Santa Parade
Downtown Kennesaw/The Historic Train Depot
Santa’s arrival takes place with a familyoriented parade down Main Street featuring costumer characters, musical ensembles, marching bands, holiday floats, and Santa and Mrs. Claus with live reindeers!

February

Valentine Sock Hop
Ben Robertson Community Center
Dig out your poodle skirt, roll up your jeans and don your leather jacket. Jitterbug, jive, and rock around the clock to 50’s and 60’s music provided by a professional DJ. Enjoy light refreshments, crafts, and contests throughout the evening. Portrait style photos will be available for purchase to help capture the nostalgia.