45th Annual Dogwood Trail Started in Paducah, Kentucky

The Dogwood Festival takes place each year in April, it is a 12 mile long path decorated with dogwood trees of the best colors. People prepare all year for this event which lasts usually from two to three weeks, but most of it depends on the weather and the trees. It takes some encouragement and care from mother nature to get the process where it needs to be. Usually around mid-April, the dogwoods bloom and accent their surroundings including other trees, greenery, and flowering plants of all species. Ask anyone who lives in the area, and they will tell you that the Dogwood Celebration is what signifies spring in this area. The start of the festival is the annual Dogwood Ball, held at the Carson Center. Dogwood trees are an ancient species, with the flowering type being the most recognized and popular variety. They have even been said to have been the material used to build the Trojan Horse. Breeding the trees is an old tradition and the fruits, which come in yellow, white, red, and even black, are used to make jams and jellies. Visitors to Paducah, KY can either drive the town scenery, there is an event for bike riders to experience the trail, or ride in a horse drawn carriage down the dogwood path.

Vehicular travelers can cruise down the trail in daylight or at nightfall when all of the trees are lit up with beautiful decor. In the middle of the day, one can enjoy the scenery along with stopping in at all of the shops in historical downtown, take in some music from various bands, or enjoy some southern cooking all in one place. Complimentary tours on the Paducah Area Transit buses starts at 7:30 PM. If you would like to try something romantic and hire a carriage,Annie's located at 2nd and Broadway, can make your vision a reality. The wall mural next to the river is an interesting attraction, not to mention having the backdrop of tug boats traveling back and forth. Night time observers can make a stop at the riverfront to spend some time under the stars next to the lull of the calm waters. The bike trail is an organized event in which those desiring to participate can do so alone or with family. Entrance is very affordable, it only costs $1 per person or $2 per family. It starts out at Lange Park, then the circular park at Madison, followed by Fountain Avenue and 17th Street. At the end of the bike trail, riders are encouraged to join in a potluck gathering.

The Paducah City Beautification Board sponsors a ceremony each year for winners of on and off the trail awards which began in 1964. It has come a long way from the two blocks it was then. City Hall has offered as a gathering place for many of the festivities and awards ceremonies. There is also a Dogwood Painting and Photo contest. Since the weather this time of year is perfect for the trees to fully bloom, they will no doubt have many reflections of their appearance on display. No matter what method of transport you choose, or what trail you decide to follow, you are sure to find many hidden treasures along the way. Make a point to stop and enjoy the historical homes, buildings, and check out the various entertainment that Paducah, KY has to offer. However breath-taking the many various renditions are that have been created of them by artists, nothing beats traveling the trail and seeing the sight yourself. If you would like to learn more about the Dogwood Festival, be sure to check out www.paducah-tourism.org/ .