2026 Rest Carnival
The Rest Carnival is a one-of-a-kind community event that combines science, art, food, music, and interactive experiences to explore the power of sleep and rest. Designed for people of all ages, this immersive gathering invites you to discover how sleep and restoration support healthier bodies, stronger communities and fuller lives. Whether you are looking to learn something new, spend time with family and friends, enjoy great food, experience inspiring art, or simply take a moment to slow down. Rest Carnival has something for you!
What: A community celebration of sleep, science, wellness and joy.
When: August 22, 2026 | 9AM-4PM
Where: Harper Hall | Lexington, KY
Details: Free event | Registration Required | Food Provided
The Lineup
Keynote
Explore the relationship between rest, health, and liberation with Dr. Raquel Martin. Ask questions. Take part in the conversation.
The Dreaming Room
How can we dream if our community can't sleep?
The Dreaming Room is an invitation into healing—a space that treasures being instead of doing. Here, you are invited to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with yourself, your imagination, and your capacity to dream. Rest is not a luxury; it is essential to our well-being, our creativity, and our collective future.
In the current state of our world, dreaming is a radical act. Within this space, we are invited to imagine the society we want to build while making room to acknowledge the collective nightmares, grief, pain, and loss we have experienced. Through visual imagery, sound, and
scent, The Dreaming Room creates a multisensory environment that invites us to envision the future of Black sleep—one rooted in safety, restoration, belonging, and possibility. Imagine what becomes possible when individuals and communities are given the time, space, and permission to rest, dream, and imagine new futures.
ANCHORED: At the Intersection of Agriculture, Southern Foodways and Rest
Experience a tasting exhibition celebrating the connection between food, culture, and restoration. Guests will enjoy thoughtfully crafted small bites featuring antioxidant-rich ingredients that support wellness while honoring culinary traditions and community.
Chef Isaiah Screetch, a 2023 James Beard Award nominee for Best Chef Southeast and co-founder of Soulful Creations Catering, brings his signature creativity, bold flavors, and passion for community-centered cuisine to this special experience.
The Nap Concert™
Produced by L. Elizabeth Wangugi of Exclusive Excursions and Stephanie Matthews of A Tribe for Jazz, The Nap Concert™ is an immersive live experience designed to support deep rest and relaxation through sound.
Participants will be invited to settle into a comfortable resting space while harpist Trista Hill and sound bath artist Sharmane Bias curate restorative soundscapes that encourage stillness, reflection, and renewal. Mattresses, pillows, and blankets will be provided, though attendees are welcome to bring their own comfort items.
Please note that participation involves lying down and rising from the floor. All attendees must be 18+ for this event.
Research Corner at The Rest Carnival
Sponsored By CASH-KY
Join three researchers as they share insights from their latest research with members of the community. This engaging presentation will highlight key findings, explain what the research means in everyday life, and explore how it can benefit the community. Attendees will have an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and connect directly with the researchers.