The Kentucky Tourism Council names its "Top Ten" Festivals & Events four times a year. To be eligible, festivals or events must be recommended or produced by a KTC member. A panel of impartial judges selects the winners for each season. Criteria for selection include popularity of the event, its impact on the local tourism economy and cultural and historical significance.

The Kentucky Tourism Council is a 450-member statewide association representing all sectors of the state's travel industry. The council's mission is to unite Kentucky's third largest industry through governmental interaction, communication and education.