Local group , Sneaky Pete , performed during one of the Town Center Summer Concert Series segments . | Photo by Nita Johnson
through September each year and continue to grow in their popularity .
The Heritage Music Series at Heritage Hills Theater brought Kentucky singer / songwriters to the stage – some of whom also have performed at other venues and have moved on to perform in the Nashville . This spring and fall music series continues to grow and thrive , often having sell-out crowds .
The World Chicken Festival celebrates the founding of the first Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant in southern Laurel County by Col . Harland Sanders and offers contests , games , carnival rides , food , and musical entertainment . It continually ranks in the Top 10 festivals across the state .
Christmas is also a festive season beginning with the Tree Lighting ceremony at Town Center Park in which the large illuminated musical tree lights the town throughout the month . The Christmas on Main Parade was the largest ever and continues to involve participants every year . That event is offset by Pictures with Santa at Farmers Market . Lights Around London offers a driving tour for homes and businesses around the county in their holiday décor . An aerial drone show in mid-December added to the holiday spirit and packed downtown London with vehicles and Town Center Park with shoulder-to-shoulder observers to the show . Entry fees and the People ’ s Choice votes proceeds are donated to the Shop with a Cop program which allows less fortunate children a shopping trip with local law enforcement officials to enhance their Christmas .
Charities are also a huge component of life in Laurel County . Numerous 5K runs accent the fundraising efforts of local groups , while other volunteer to assist children in need through the Backpack Club , Action for Autism , Dolly Parton ’ s Imagination Library and Parkinson ’ s in Motion groups . Radiothons to assist with Make a Wish Foundation and other charitable groups are frequent fundraisers in the community .
Laurel County Public Schools and East Bernstadt Independent School ranked high in academic testing with graduates continuing to receive over $ 2 million in scholarships each year . Athletics , band , archery , cross country , football and softball / baseball programs also received statewide notice .
Business also made its mark on the area with two new industrial parks established , one of which involved a record-setting investment of $ 600 million in Rowland Acres Industrial Park . Two new RV parks were announced , while 47 new businesses opened in 2022 . Many others expanded and / or relocated to accommodate their customers ’ needs .
Paula Thompson , Executive Director for London- Laurel County Economic Development stated , “ Lon-