The 36th Annual Uncle Dave Macon Days kicked-off with mild temperatures and a light breeze at 10:00 o'clock Friday morning. Event President Gloria Christy (above photo) was all smiles as steady lines came through the gates all day at Cannonsburgh Pioneer Village.

Heritage Award Winners Ricky Skaggs and Sharon White were there all day, enjoying the music, crowds and from what was reported--the homemade pies.

Trailblazer Award

The Trailblazer Award was given out Friday, and family members of Sam and Kirk McGee were on hand to accept the honor. The brothers grew-up in Franklin where they first learned banjo, and then picked-up slide-guitar and blues techniques from African-American railroad workers there. In 1923 Sam and Kirk met Uncle Dave Macon, who was already a giant Grand Ole Opry star. Soon after that, Uncle Dave put together a larger band and the McGee's were a part of it.

Motorless Parade

The popular MOTORLESS PARADE gets underway at 10:00 o'clock Saturday morning. Parade Directors Earl Lamb and Jimmy Francis indicate this will be the largest parade in the event's 36-year history. Set-up for this attraction begins at 8:00AM at Central Magnet School. It leaves the school at 10:00AM, goes down East Main and over to Cannonsburgh.

Ricky Skaggs and Sharon White receive the Heritage Award at 7:00 o'clock Saturday evening. That will be followed by the National Championship Finals.

Gospel On Sunday

The gates open at 10:00AM Sunday with a community worship service at 11:00 o'clock. The day's activities include a community service fair along with old time shape note singing and a hymn fest in the Cannonsburgh Village Church.

Free Parking

Parking is free at the indoor City Hall parking lot and other city parking lots around the downtown area. The city's Rover Bus is offering a continuous loop service absolutely free during the event hours.