Despite a rainy forecast, this year’s Kentucky's Official State Honey Festival was a huge success.

The rain did not dampen the spirits of those who attended this year’s event in Clarkson last weekend where thousands of locals and visitors found lots to do.

“The rain hurt us a little,” said Honeyfest Committee Coordinator Vanda Ray, “but Friday night went well and Thursday was just amazing. The rain drizzled a little and everyone was out there listening to the band with umbrellas. It was quite a sight.”

The honey-themed parade began at 9 a.m. and ran through the streets of Clarkson for one hour and 34 minutes as more than 40 floats, 37 antique tractors, cars, trucks and other entries entertained those who came to watch the yearly parade.

“We really appreciate the support we get from everyone in the county,” said Ray. “We have a terrific parade with so many different entries from so many different business and groups. The Clarkson Elementary School really supports the HoneyFest. They had nine floats in this year parade and each of those was beautifully decorated. “

The parade was just one of the many events that was available to those who attended the free festival.

“We offered a lot of different things for all kinds of different people. There were over 90 craft booths that sold wares of all kinds from several different states,” said Ray. “The elementary school held a spelling bee and a hat parade. Then there was pet contest and a karaoke contest, several bluegrass bands and one of the best carnival rides we have ever had. “

The only scheduled event that was canceled because of the rain was the Bobby Joe Bratcher Band, which was scheduled to perform on Saturday night.

Most of the proceeds that are collected each year go towards helping out the community.

"We donate some of our proceeds collected to the Clarkson Elementary School," Ray explained. "That money is used for prizes for the hat contest and spelling bee. The remaining money goes for band fees (this year's total is over $5,000) and to help out with next year's Honeyfest."

Ideas for next year’s festival are already being generated. One of the visiting bee keepers said he was planning to bring a bee beard next year and with Grayson County celebrating its 200th birthday along with it being an election year there should be lots of exciting things in store for the up coming festival.