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Annual Events

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If you’re a fan of fun, Louisville’s the place for you.

No matter what the season or time of year, there are umpteen-million things you can do in this city. Louisville is home to a veritable plethora of high-profile festivals that celebrate the arts and culture, reflecting the joy of conversation and community in the city.
Louisville is a superstar when it comes to putting on festivals and events.

Top 20 EventsAnnually the city’s events have been recognized by the KITASoutheast Tourism Society Top 20 and Kentucky Travel Industry Association Top 10 for their cultural and historical significance.

In 2010, Louisville joined Sydney, Australia, as the only two cities to receive the inaugural World Festival & Event City designation by the International Festivals & Events Association. Louisville was judged #1 in its class and named the Top North American City for populations of over one million.

Louisville offers the opportunity to experience both cultural identity and diversity through many attractions and historic sites as well as festivals and events. Look around and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the array of events representing a wide range of cultural and ethnic backgrounds that make up the fabric of our community. Check out a few of the city’s multicultural events signified by this fleur de lis logo.

On the following pages you’ll find a robust list of our annual events followed by a quick snapshot of events specific to 2011-2012. This list is by no means complete so please visit www.GoToLouisville.com where events are added daily. There you can search by date or event type to find one that suits your interest and your travel schedule.

 

JANUARY

Dinnerworks

The Louisville Visual Art Association’s annual exhibition of handmade dinnerware coupled with unique table designs.
 

Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Celebration

Greater Louisville & Jefferson County, (502) 583-3682
 
FEBRUARY

Black History Month Activities

Greater Louisville & Jefferson County, (502) 583-3682
 

National Farm Machinery Show

Start your year out right with row after row of brand name products and services, hands-on demonstrations of the latest technology advancements, and a selection of free seminars that are both practical and informative.
MARCH

 

 

Dining at the Mansions

This one-night event begins at the JB Speed Mansion (built in 1883) with hors d’oeuvres, wine and silent auction. Private residences in the historic Old Louisville neighborhood participate with homeowners giving diners a rare glimpse of their elaborately decorated homes. Guests dine on a three-course dinner before returning to the JB Speed Mansion for dessert.  
 

Humana Festival of New American Plays

Held at Actors Theatre of Louisville, the Humana Festival celebrates the genius and diversity of contemporary playwrights by presenting a rotating repertory of up to seven new works that incorporate a wide spectrum of themes, theatrical forms, and styles of dramatic literature.


Mid-America Trucking Show

Equipment and services of every conceivable description, representing the most innovative technology and advanced developments in the industry will be on display! 
APRIL

 

 
 

 

 
 

 

 
 

 

 
 

Kentucky Derby Festival

The nation’s largest civic celebration with over 70 accessible events including the nation’s largest annual fireworks show Thunder Over Louisville, the Great Balloon Race, the Great Steamboat Race, Marathon/Mini Marathon, and Pegasus Parade.

Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon/Mini Marathon

The marathon is 26. 2 miles and the mini marathon is 13.1 miles. The marathon is a Boston Marathon Qualifying event and is a sanctioned course and event by United States Track and Field.
 

 

 
 

The Cherokee Triangle Art Fair

The juried art fair, held on Cherokee Parkway the weekend before Derby, got its start in 1972 when area residents started a garden plant exchange. Since then, it has gained acclaim for the quality of the arts and crafts displayed by the exhibitors. There’s plenty of great live music, entertainment, food and is a family-friendly event.
 

 


 

 

MAY


 

 

100 Black Men of Louisville Derby Gala

A black-tie fundraiser for the 100 Black Men of Louisville, the organization awards scholarships to selected 7th-grade African-American males.
 

Abbey Road on the River

Held Memorial Day Weekend on the Belvedere Festival Plaza overlooking the Ohio River in downtown Louisville, Abbey Road on the River is the largest Beatles tribute festival in America. This five-day art, music and food festival honors and celebrates The Fab Four by attracting more than 60 bands – on seven stages – from 12 countries and over 25,000 attendees.

Kentucky Derby

The most prestigious horse race in America and the first jewel of the Triple Crown is always the first Saturday in May.
 

Kentucky Oaks

The Kentucky Oaks is Thoroughbred racing’s most prestigious race for three-year-old fillies.


Kentucky Reggae Festival

Enjoy live Reggae music, ethnic food and vendors of all types.

 

 

 

 
 
JUNE


American World Festival

International food and entertainment are a major part of the festival. Past performances have ranged from African drumming to Latin music and Rwandan traditional dance to traditional Bosnian dance. The festival includes a kidzone, crafts, information, and exhibits showcasing the programs of the Americana Community Center. The area surrounding the Americana Community Center has become a vibrant mix of refugee and immigrant families and U.S. born families. An all day celebration of the sights, sounds, and tastes of the world that are right here in our own neighborhood!

Greek Festival

Enjoy ethnic food and pastries, beer, dancing, live music, jewelry, art, groceries and books at this Friday-Saturday festival.

Hispanic/Latino Health Fair

The Annual Hispanic/Latino Health Fair provides information about the services and resources in Louisville and provides valuable health information to Hispanic/Latino families. More than 600 people attend the health fair, which includes information on prevention, health screenings, and educational workshops. Since 1998, the Hispanic/Latino Coalition has been involved in efforts focused on advocacy, outreach, and support to this growing community.

Kentucky Pride Festival

Held on Belvedere Plaza in downtown Louisville, the Kentuckiana Pride Festival is a place where the GLBTQI community and its supporters can meet and celebrate, enjoying a variety of food, entertainment, and showcases from local and regional businesses and organizations.


Kentucky Shakespeare Festival

To be or not to be! Kentucky Shakespeare Festival, held in Old Louisville’s Central Park has been presenting the Bard’s works for more than half-century. It’s the longest-running free summer festival of its kind in the country, attracting 10,000-15,000 patrons annually.
 

 

 
 

 

 

Louisville Hoopfest

Kentucky's largest 3-on-3 outdoor basketball tournament with all the proceeds benefiting charity.
 

 

 

 

 
JULY

Blues-n-Barbeque Festival

This festival has been heating up mid-summer since 1998, offering a chance to kick back and enjoy the intoxicating sounds of New Orleans and Memphis as well as some outstanding barbeque.
 

 

 

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

Forecastle Festival

Named one of the top 101 things to do in America by SPIN Magazine, the annual Forecastle Festival is held on the Belvedere, overlooking the scenic Ohio River. This Music, Art and Activism festival features more than 40 bands, 15 artists, and nearly 50 environmental organizations from five states.
 

 

 
 

Kentucky Music Weekend

The largest traditional and folk music festival in the region.

Lebowski Fest

The Lebowski Fest began in Louisville in 2002 and is a two-day celebration of all things related to the 1998 Coen brothers’ cult comedy, “The Big Lebowski.” Fans of the film (aka “Achievers”) come from far and wide to drink white Russians, throw some rocks; and party with an array of Dudes, Walters, and Maudes (not to mention a nihilist or two).


Louisville Defender Newspaper’s West Louisville Appreciation Celebration & Proud Family Reunion

The West Louisville Appreciation Celebration Festival & Family Reunion emphasizes the positive aspect of the African American Community and is held for two days in western Louisville’s Shawnee Park. This community celebration started in 1980 and features activities for the entire family as well as arts, crafts and community agency exhibits.

Waterfront Independence Festival

Celebrate Independence Day downtown on the Great Lawn with music, food and fireworks during this two-day event.


World Championship of Dainty

In the 1850’s, an influx of German immigrants settled in what is known today as the Germantown and Schnitzelburg neighborhoods. They brought with them a European children’s game called Dainty. Since 1970, the World Championship of Dainty tournament has been held every year on the last Monday in July. Spectators are welcome at Hauck’s Handy Store.
 
AUGUST

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

Ford Ironman Louisville

Ford Ironman Louisville made its debut in 2007 and has quickly become one of North America’s most popular Ironman races. The triathlon consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike and a 26.2-mile run within a 17-hour time frame. The event serves as a qualifier for the Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona Hawaii.

Kentucky Art Car Weekend

Held the first weekend in August, the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft's free, family-friendly Kentucky Art Car Weekend includes over 40 art cars from around the country, a sidewalk sale of art, a mini art car workshop, a drive-in movie, and an art car parade.

Kentucky State Fair

The "Pride of Kentucky" draws over 600,000 people with attractions from rooster crowing contests and pig racing and top name concerts.
 

NSRA Street Rod Nationals Plus

Recognized as the world's largest automotive participation event, more than 11,000 pre-1949 street rod's are showcased each year. In 2010, the event opened its doors to any vehicle 30 years-old and older-vehicles from the 50's, 60's, and 70's joined the street rods!

World Championship Horse Show

A showcase for American Saddlebred, Hackney Ponies, and Road Horses that crowns the world championship saddlebreds in different divisions.

 


 

 
 
SEPTEMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Taste of Louisville

Since 1973, over 40 Louisville restaurants have presented some of the finest cuisine and libations in the area.

Captain’s Quarters Regatta

The Captain's Quarters Regatta is one of the region's premier sailing events. Started in 1972 by Ennis Mahon, then owner of Captain's Quarters Restaurant, the regatta has become a fall tradition noted for warm camaraderie, good parties and hot competition.

IdeaFestival

Founded in 2000, the IdeaFestival (IF) is a world-class event that attracts leading and highly diverse thinkers from across the nation and around the globe to explore and celebrate innovation, imagination and cutting-edge ideas.

 

Jeffersontown Gaslight Festival

What started as a small street party in 1969 has grown to become the 5th largest festival in the region and has taken its place as one of the top 20 in the Southeast. The nine-day festival includes a motorcycle rally & car show, a golf scramble, a 5K run/walk, a parade, balloon glow, children’s playground, live entertainment and over 140 arts, crafts, and commercial booths. Held the 3rd weekend in September.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 


Heritage Festival

 This free family festival at Riverside, the Farnsley-Moreman Landing features great music, food, traditional craft demonstrations, and activities for children and adults of all ages. Musical entertainment is provided by regional favorites.

Kentucky Bluegrass Music Festival

Held at the Water Tower, this festival is one of Louisvill'e oldest and best known music events.

Louisville Irish Fest

Irish Fest features live Irish and Celtic music, Irish dancers, food & beverages, and Irish Tea Room, cultural exhibits, and Irish Marketplace, children's activities and much more.

National Jug Band Jubilee

The National Jug Band Jubilee is a gathering of the nation's best jug bands bringing America's Happiest Music back to its old Kentucky home, in the city that started it all. The one-night Jubille is dedicated to preserving jug band music.


National Quartet Convention

Gospel music’s biggest annual event showcases the finest talent in Southern Gospel Music.

Rooftop Dance Party

Adelante Hispanic Achievers' annual rooftop dance party at the Glassworks brings together more than 500 people for an event of tapas, tequila tastings and dancing under the stars.

Salsa in the Infield

Salsa in the Infield includes “Salsa in the City” Best Salsa Contest featuring all the local competing Mexican, Caribbean, and Texan salsas and local groups perform fiesta music with salsa dancing. The Boy Scout Exposition includes demonstrations for families in Spanish. And, several local social service groups for refugees and immigrants present the “Know Your Rights” Seminar. All countries and cultures are welcome.

WorldFest

A three-day annual festival held Labor Day Weekend, WorldFest features international music, dance and food; a “Parade of Cultures;” free children’s crafts and activities; and a Naturalization Ceremony.

 

OCTOBER

 

Garvin Gate Blues Festival

The Garvin Gate Blues Festival is the largest free neighborhood street music festival in Louisville. A celebration of the blues, the two-day festival has been attracting a multi-racial, intergenerational audience to the cozy Old Louisville neighborhood of Garvin Place, between 4th & 6th Streets, since 1988.

 

 

 
 

 

 
 

NuLu Festival

The NULU Festival features “all things local” and offers live music, micro-brewed beers, food and shopping by and from local vendors and participants. The festival takes place in the 700 block of East Market Street with all festivities being free, family-friendly, and open to the public.

 

St. James Court Art Show

More than 750 artists from throughout North and South America will converge for the annual Saint James Court Art Show. Held the first weekend in October.

The Spirit Ball

Sample gourmet fare and expertly mixed cocktails amidst the backdrop of costumed splendor at the heart of America's largest Victorian neighborhood in the 1890s masterpiece known as the Conrad-Caldwell House.

Victorian Ghost Walk

Keep the past alive by enjoying beautiful architecture and spine-tingling tales at an event that is sure to be a highlight of your Halloween season!

Week in the Highlands

A week of family-friendly events from the unique blend of lifestyles that make the Highlands a special place. Events include The Highlands Cup 5K Run/Walk, Highlands-Douglass Big Rock Jazz Fest, Empty Bowls Soup Supper and Auction, Belknap Neighborhood Fall Festival, and the Farmington Harvest Festival.

World’s Largest Halloween Party

Not-too-scary, Halloween fun for the entire family with larger-than-life costumed characters and fanciful storybook scenes throughout the Zoo, plus trick-or-treating and the Halloween Train Express!

 

NOVEMBER

 

 
 

Day of the Dead Celebration
 

El Día de los Muertos blends indigenous and Catholic traditions to celebrate and honor the lives of deceased family members and friends who return each year in November to pay their loved ones a visit with flowers, candles, and food.

Festival of Trees and Lights

The indoor gallery of the Louisville Slugger Field becomes a winter wonderland of events for an estimated 10,000 attendees in support of the Kosair Children’s Hospital Festival of Trees and Lights. Local businesses and individuals sponsor hundreds of beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and assorted greenery in which the most unique designs are awarded and all items are available for purchase to benefit Kosair Children’s Hospital through the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Visitors can enjoy ongoing attractions such as traditional Kwanza, Christian, and Jewish celebrations and festive displays, shop for holiday gifts and homemade delicacies, and attend fun family events such as Dickens Family Night.

Light Up Louisville

Held the day after Thanksgiving, Light Up Louisville has been a holiday tradition since 1981. Events include Run Run Rudolph 5K, Workshop and Children’s Crafts, entertainment, and a Winter Wonderland Parade – an evening parade of lights. All of this leads up to the lighting up of Jefferson Square, Santa’s arrival, and a fireworks show.


North American Livestock Exposition

The North American International Livestock Exposition is the world’s largest all-breed, purebred livestock exposition. Accompanying the event, the North American Quarter Horse Show is one of the largest shows in the nation and the North American Championship Rodeo features the Great Lakes Circuit finals for the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association.
DECEMBER

Christmas Gift and Décor Show

One of the nation’s largest and finest free admission Christmas Shows! Over 700 booths of wonderful Christmas craft and gift-type items.
 

 

 

 

 

 


KaLightosope Christmas
 

KaLightoscope Christmas is a multi-layered celebration of the holidays at the Galt House Hotel including the exhibit, Colors of the Season dinner show, Mistletoe Marketplace, the world’s largest life-sized gingerbread village, breakfast with Santa, and more. The KaLightoscope exhibit is comprised of larger-than-life, lighted holiday sculptures handcrafted by more than 30 artisans from Zigong, China. Made of sheer, painted fabrics, each towering sculpture is enhanced by light, color, and an imaginative setting.

Lights Under Louisville
 

Seventeen miles of Louisville MEGA Cavern’s passageways are transformed into an underground holiday light spectacular for the Christmas season. Drive your own vehicle inside the cavern on this 30-40 minute tour which features over 500 lit characters and over 2,000,000 points of light. It’s the only underground light show of its kind on the planet.

Old Louisville Holiday House Tour

Visit historic Old Louisville’s most beautiful homes all dressed up for the holidays.