50 Years of Community, Commerce, and Connection
For half a century, the Big Shanty Festival has been a defining tradition in downtown Kennesaw—bringing people together to celebrate local businesses, creativity, and community pride. What began as a grassroots gathering has grown into Kennesaw’s largest annual event, rooted in the same spirit of collaboration that shaped the city itself.
The Foundation: Kennesaw Business Association (1975)
The story of the Big Shanty Festival begins with the founding of the Kennesaw Business Association in 1975. At the time, Kennesaw looked very different. Town Center had yet to be imagined, much of the surrounding area remained farmland, and Interstate 75 ended in Marietta before resuming in Cartersville. Highway 41—now Cobb Parkway—was lined with roadside landmarks like Stuckey’s, quilt shops, and boiled peanut stands.
Recognizing the importance of working together, downtown merchants formed the Kennesaw Business Association to promote and preserve the historic heart of the city while encouraging residents and visitors to support local businesses. That shared vision of collaboration and local pride laid the groundwork for everything that followed.
A Growing Downtown, A Growing Tradition
As Kennesaw evolved, so did its downtown—and with it, the events that brought the community together. What started as a local gathering designed to showcase small businesses and artisans steadily grew alongside the city itself.
Over time, the festival expanded in size and scope, welcoming artists, food vendors, performers, and families from across the region. Each year, downtown Kennesaw transformed into a vibrant celebration of creativity, commerce, and connection—reflecting both the city’s growth and its commitment to maintaining a strong sense of place.
The Rise of the Big Shanty Festival
Produced by the Kennesaw Business Association, the Big Shanty Festival has become the organization’s most visible and enduring community contribution. Today, the festival draws tens of thousands of visitors annually to historic downtown Kennesaw, making it the city’s largest event.
What sets the Big Shanty Festival apart is its balance of scale and heart. While it has grown into a major regional attraction, it remains deeply rooted in its original purpose—supporting local businesses, celebrating the arts, and creating an experience that feels welcoming, authentic, and community-driven.
For many families, attending Big Shanty isn’t just an event—it’s a tradition passed down across generations.
Celebrating 50 Years: A Dual Milestone
In 2025, the Kennesaw Business Association celebrated its 50th anniversary as an organization, marking five decades of service to the local business community. The milestone was recognized with a commemorative celebration at Governor’s Gun Club and a celebratory breakfast later in the year featuring remarks from Governor Brian Kemp—a moment that underscored KBA’s lasting role in economic development and civic engagement.
Just one year later, in April 2026, the Big Shanty Festival will celebrate its own 50th anniversary on April 18–19, 2026, in downtown Kennesaw. This milestone honors not only the longevity of the festival, but the people, businesses, volunteers, and partners who have sustained it for half a century.
A Tradition Shared Across Generations
The Big Shanty Festival is more than a weekend event—it is a reflection of Kennesaw’s identity. It is where longtime residents reconnect, new families create memories, and local businesses thrive in the heart of the city.
As Kennesaw continues to grow and evolve, the Big Shanty Festival remains an anchor—honoring the past while welcoming the future. Fifty years in, the mission remains the same: bring people together, support the local community, and celebrate what makes downtown Kennesaw special.
