Saddle Up for St. Jude returns for 30th year July 16-18
The late Jimmy King was approached 30 years ago to host a fundraiser event for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The event is still going strong, and now the 30th installment of Saddle Up for St. Jude is set to cross the $5 million mark in all-time funds raised for the nonprofit.
The event will be held at Gardiner Farm, 85 Underwood Road, Tuscumbia, from July 16 through July 18.
Each night of the event features concerts and a special headliner.
Dr. Jimmy Gardiner, who helped King host the event at Gardiner Farms, announced the 2026 Saddle Up for St. Jude concert lineup during Super Bowl Sunday.
“We have Shenandoah Thursday night,” Gardiner said during a social media post about the event. “Jo Dee Messina on Friday night, and Rodney Atkins on Saturday. We are going to celebrate raising half a million dollars for St. Jude’s Hospital this year. It’s going to be our biggest one ever in memory of Mr. Jimmy King. We are going to have an amazing time, and we can’t wait for you to come out.”
Gardiner said the annual auction to be held Saturday night is expected to raise $350,000 in four hours.
“Explore over 3,000 acres of scenic riding trails, check out local vendors and let the kids enjoy the inflatables and pony rides in our kids’ zone,” according to the event website. “This event truly has something for everyone. And of course, we’re proud to offer what we believe is the best food and concessions around.
Weekend passes are $85 each. Tickets for just Thursday or Friday are $30, with Saturday $40. Primitive camping sites are available for $25.
For more information, visit SaddleUp4kids.org.
