April is Redbud Month in Southern and Eastern Kentucky. Many exciting events are planned throughout April in celebration of the native Redbud Tree.

April 2, 2012: Redbud Health Awareness Walk from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm (ET) at the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame in Renfro Valley, KY. The first 500 registered participants will receive Redbud seedlings, tote bags, free lunch from Subway and other gifts and prizes. Free health screenings will also be available. The free event is open to the public and will be held rain or shine.

April 21, 2012: Redbud Motorcycle Ride along the Wilderness Road National Scenic Byway. Registration is from 10:00-11:30 am at the Berea Welcome Center in the Old Town section of Berea. This is a non guided ride along the Red River Gorge National Scenic Byway that will end at the Powell County Tourism office near Natural Bridge State Park. The first 250 registered participants will receive a t-shirt and Redbud seedlings. Cost is $10 per single rider and $15 for a couple. Participants can receive a $5 discount by bringing a completed liability waiver to registration. For more information on the ride or to request a copy of the liability waiver, e-mail Michelle Allen, mllen@tourseky.com.

April 13, 2012: Redbud Garden Party and Photography Contest at the Middlesboro-Bell County Tourist Commission Office in downtown Middlesboro from 1:00 pm-3:00 pm. 2012 Redbud Trails Photo Contest entries will be on display for attendees to judge. There will also be light refreshments and free redbud seedlings for participants. For contest rules and deadline information, please call 606-677-6093.

The Redbud Trails Program was created in 2004 and since its inception, more than 450,000 redbud trees and seedlings have been planted throughout Southern and Eastern Kentucky. For more information about Redbud Month events, please contact Maggie Bill at 606-677-6093, or mbill@tourseky.com