GRCF 2026: Special Friends Day

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 8:24am — John Embry

The Green River Catfish Festival welcomed dozens of special guests on Thursday morning, July 2, for Special Friends Day, an annual event that provides individuals with disabilities and special needs the opportunity to experience the carnival in a fun, welcoming, and less crowded setting.

What began in 2019 as a new idea has grown into one of the festival's most anticipated community events.

When Special Friends Day was introduced at the festival, organizers hoped to create an experience where everyone could enjoy the festival regardless of ability. The response from families, caregivers, volunteers, and local businesses was overwhelmingly positive, and the event quickly became an important part of the festival's mission of serving the entire community.

This year's Special Friends Day once again brings together dozens of volunteers who donate their time to assist participants throughout the morning. Community organizations, caregivers, and families work alongside festival leaders to ensure each guest is welcomed with kindness and encouraged to enjoy everything the carnival has to offer.The event is made possible through the support of sponsors whose contributions help provide free admission and rides for participants. Sponsors include: BCHS Renaissance, Bibles, Bikes & BBQ, Briar Griffin, Briggs Rental Co., Bullseye Taxidermy, Butler County Emergency Services, Butler County Family Care, Butler County School Nutrition, Double J Electric, Drake's Farm Service, Duck Duck Goose Children's Consignment, Elite Detailing, Emma & Hanna Winchel, Firehouse Pizza, Flener Hardscapes, Friends of Collin Tomes, Fugate's Exotic, Gav's Meat Processing, WRECC, Glenda Flener, Henderson Land Surveying, Hood's Market, Jackson Chiropractic, Jason Elmore – 2nd District Magistrate, Joe Alford – Sheriff Elect, Kentucky State Police, Leeann Hudnall, Little Evie & Co., MES Family Resource Center, Michela Duvall, Moore Yarn For Less, Mother's Daughter Cheesecakes, North Butler Elementary School, Roof Girl, Speck , The Jaymes Davis, and Up In Smoke.