Community Driven: Duncan Hines Days Hits Record Highs!
We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Talia Butler, joined by a very special guest – Duncan, the Duncan Hines Days mascot – to discuss the incredible success of the third annual Duncan Hines Days!
The week-long celebration, honoring Bowling Green’s very own culinary legend, Duncan Hines, was the biggest and best yet. Despite Mother Nature’s best efforts, with only one event needing to be relocated due to rain, the festivities were a resounding success.
Key Highlights & Impact:
- 19 Events: The week, from June 1-8, featured a diverse lineup of 19 events across Southern Kentucky.
- Massive Attendance: An estimated 13,000 people attended events, with visitors from at least 17 states represented.
- Economic Boost: The event generated a significant economic impact of over $2 million for local small businesses in Southern Kentucky!
- Community Collaboration: It takes a full year of planning and the collaboration of over 70 public and private partners to bring this celebration to life.
New & Noteworthy Events: This year introduced exciting new features that were a big hit:
- Fountain Square Nostalgic Block Party: A new favorite featuring live music, food trucks, inflatables, kids’ games, and a live-action Candyland. This highly attended event will definitely be back!
- Dolly Trolley Experience: Inspired by Duncan Hines’ and Dolly Parton’s baking line, this unique event included a trolley ride around the square, a red-carpet entrance to The Capitol for a screening of the film 9 to 5, with attendees dressing up as Dolly Parton. It attracted fans of all ages from across multiple states!
Looking ahead, plans are already in motion for next year, including a new route for the “Duncan’s Duck Paddle” event and continued enhancements for the “Eats and Beats Music Fest,” which this year featured Bowling Green’s first-ever video walls for the outdoor concert, making it even more accessible for all.
Thank you to Talia and all the organizers for their incredible work in bringing our community together and showcasing all that Bowling Green has to offer!
