Jeremiah Parsons: Kentucky Apple Festival

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In this heartfelt episode of Elevated Eventure, host David Sauers talks with Jeremiah Parsons of the Paintsville Tourism Association to explore the rich history and enduring charm of the Kentucky Apple Festival. Recorded live at the 2025 Southeast Festival and Events Association conference in Chattanooga, the conversation traces the festival’s humble beginnings—when farmers shared surplus apples on courthouse steps—to its current status as a beloved multi-day celebration filled with apple pie contests, fun runs, car shows, and community spirit. Jeremiah shares how local nonprofits benefit from the event, why Paintsville is a cultural gem worth visiting, and how his own journey in children’s theater and mentorship led him to community leadership. The Kentucky Apple Festival returns October 3–4, 2025, in Paintsville, Kentucky.