What We Do at the American Mule and Bluegrass Festival
📅 September 24-27

📍 Cooper Steel Arena, Shelbyville, TN

At the AMBF, we celebrate the rich traditions of rural life, music, and the amazing mule! Here's what you can experience:

🫏 Mule Competitions
Watch skilled handlers and their mules compete in fun and exciting events that showcase teamwork and tradition.

🍳 Cast Iron Cooking Competition

Watch masters at the skill of cooking with cast iron as they handle brisket, beans, cornbread, and even apple cobbler all cooked on an open fire.

🎶 Bluegrass Music
Enjoy live performances from talented bluegrass musicians throughout the festival.

🏡 Heritage Education
We bring all 4th graders in Bedford County, along with homeschoolers, to come learn hands-on about:

• Pioneer Lifestyle

• Beekeeping

• Blacksmithing

• Mule care and history

• And much more!

🎨 Arts & Crafts Vendors and Pioneer Demonstrations
Browse handmade goods and crafts from local artisans while learning about how things were made in the olden days!

🍔 Food Trucks
Grab a bite to eat from a variety of food trucks serving up festival favorites.

Whether you're here to learn, listen to music, watch the mules, or just enjoy a day with family—there's something for everyone at the AMBF!