Spirit of the Ham Festival Award

Each year, the Trigg County Country Ham Festival is built on tradition, community and the incredible people who dedicate their time and talents to making it possible. One of the festival’s most cherished traditions is the Spirit of the Ham Festival Award, honoring individuals who have gone above and beyond in their contributions to the growth and spirit of Ham Fest.

The story of the award goes all the way back to the festival’s beginnings. Kentucky Farm Bureau, along with Smith Broadbent III of Broadbent Hams, played an important role in sponsoring, developing the rules and conducting the original country ham judging contest, a tradition that continues at Ham Fest today.

As the festival grew, so did the group of people who helped shape it. Marvin Broadbent Jr., a longtime Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance agent, and George Bleidt, postmaster of Golden Pond, became well known for their candid feedback, thoughtful advice and constant encouragement. They cared deeply about the festival and weren’t shy about sharing ideas for making it even better.

Following their passing, festival organizers created the Spirit of the Ham Festival Award in their honor.

Today, the award is presented each year to individuals whose dedication, creativity, service and passion embody what Ham Fest has always been about: people coming together to celebrate our community and keep its traditions going for the next generation.