Published on September 8, 2026 4:08 pm
Last Updated on September 8, 2026 4:08 pm
Rural King is teaming up with platinum-selling country music artist and Illinois native Drew Baldridge as the presenting partner of The BIG Baldridge & Bonfire Festival, returning to Baldridge’s hometown of Patoka on Saturday, Sept. 19.
Now in its fourth year, the one-day outdoor country music festival regularly brings thousands of fans to Patoka, a community of fewer than 600 residents. Baldridge will headline the hometown celebration, joined by country artist Adam Sanders.
The festival partnership is part of Rural King’s newly expanded 2026 relationship with Baldridge, focused on creating local experiences and adding value in the communities Rural King serves.
“Drew’s connection to small-town communities and the rural lifestyle makes this partnership such a natural fit for Rural King,” said Rural King Vice President of Marketing, Sourcing and Private Label Heath Ashenfelter. “The BIG Baldridge & Bonfire is a special event for Patoka, and we’re excited to help make the experience even more memorable for the thousands of fans who come together in Drew’s hometown each year.”
As presenting partner, Rural King will bring several on-site experiences to festivalgoers, including a Rural King tent offering free popcorn and water and a branded, fall-themed photo booth. Rural King is also making tickets available to associates as part of the company’s involvement in the event.
For Baldridge, the partnership brings together two parts of his own small-town Illinois upbringing.
“Rural King is a big part of where I grew up. I used to go there with my grandpa, and anytime we needed anything, Rural King was always our first stop. It brings back a lot of great childhood memories, and even today, it’s one of my favorite places to stop when I’m back home. Rural King fits my country lifestyle to a T, so I’m really excited to partner with them to put on my hometown festival,” Baldridge said.
The BIG Baldridge & Bonfire will take place at Patoka Village Hall, 301 S. Oak St. in Patoka. Gates open at 5 p.m., with the show beginning at 6 p.m. Baldridge is set to perform fan favorites including his No. 1 hit “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” top 10 single “Tough People,” and recent releases “A Man Don’t,” “Maker’s Mark” and more.
