20 Festivals & Events Taking Place in Louisville this August
There's still plenty of Summer fun left to be had in Bourbon City. Craft beer, fantastic food, multiple music festivals, and even the greatest show in sports are coming to Louisville this August 2024.
Savannah Bananas | Aug. 1-3
As part of their world tour, the Savannah Bananas Baseball Team is making a stop in downtown Louisville at Louisville Slugger Field. Known as "the greatest show in sports" the team and players have become social media superstars for their choreographed dance routines, over-the-top performances, and epic scoring celebrations. The Bananas will take the field at 7 pm each night along with a cast of other characters including the Banana Nanas, Breakdancing Coach, and Dancing Umpire.
55th Annual Street Rod Nationals | Aug. 1-4
This annual show will roll into the Kentucky Exposition Center the first week in August. Over 10,000 vehicles from the '50s, '60s, '70s, and '80s will be on display, ranging from classic street rods to custom builds, muscle cars, and other special interest vehicles. Commercial exhibitors, a builders showcase, a vintage auto parts swap, and an arts and crafts fair are highlights of the event, along with the thousands of vehicles on display. Military personnel with proper ID and those 60 years of age and older can find discounted tickets at local O'Reilly Auto Parts stores.
EGGFest 2024 | Aug. 2 & 3
One of the city's most savory celebrations returns for its 15th year this August 2 & 3. The Big Green EGGFest spans two days which include a Chopped-style competition, Best Beef or Pork Contest, Big Green Egg Classes, and of course, tons of incredible food to sample, cooked to perfection by competing local chefs. Tickets to each day are sold separately, so be sure to check the website for which day's lineup interests you most. EGGFest is an annual fundraiser with proceeds going to local food-related charities.
Jazz Fest | Aug. 2 & 3
The Louisville Jazz Fest is back for two days of music festival at the Iroquois Amphitheater. Get your jazz fix by listening to featured artists including Brian Culbertson, Avery Sunshine, and Gerey Johnson on Friday - and Boney James, Jeter Jones, and Rebecca on Saturday.
Heritage Fire Tour | Aug. 4
The Heritage Fire Tour unites live-fire cooking, family farms, and local chefs in diverse destinations. The all-inclusive walk-around feast features thoughtful bites prepared by some of the most critically acclaimed kitchens, with products from locally sourced farms and sponsors. After indulging in each dish, guests can vote for their favorite bite of the day. The event will take place at Louisville's Waterfront Park from 4:15-7pm for a friendly competition resulting in a feel-good, delicious time for all.
St. Joe's Picnic | Aug. 9 & 10 | FREE
This year’s event takes place on Friday, August 9 from 5 pm – 10 pm and Saturday, August 10 from Noon to Midnight. Come out to this free, family-friendly event and support St. Joe’s by playing carnival & casino games, enjoying the delicious food and drinks, and buying chances on raffle items.
The Women’s Cup | Aug. 9 & 13
The Women’s Cup returns to Louisville this summer with three names on the global football stage set to join Racing Louisville FC for the four-team tournament at Lynn Family Stadium. Italian powerhouse Juventus and South American champion Palmeiras will play in what will be the third edition of The Women’s Cup in Louisville with a fourth international team will be confirmed soon. The event will play out as a knockout tournament over two days, with the semifinals set for Aug. 9 and final set for Aug. 13.
Sky Soul Festival | Aug. 10
Get ready for an enchanting experience as the Sky Soul Festival descends upon Waterfront Park, courtesy of the Sky Foundation Org. This highly anticipated event promises a celebration of art, culture, and community, set against the picturesque backdrop of Louisville. Performers include Anthony Hamilton, KeKe Wyatt, Dru Hill, and Doug E. Fresh.
Caufield's Creepfest | Aug. 10
Taking place on historic West Main Street the first annual Caufield’s CreepFest invites visitors to experience a full day of frights. Featuring over 20 vendors offering all things odd, creepy, and horror-themed, enjoy pet and adult costume contests along with shopping at one of the city's top Halloween and novelty shops from 10am to 7pm.
Kentucky State Fair | August 15–25
Held annually at the Kentucky Exposition Center, the Kentucky State Fair is celebrating its 120th year of showcasing Kentucky’s culture, art, agriculture, music, and more. Travel the entire Commonwealth and discover everything Kentucky has to offer without ever having to leave the room at the Pride of the Counties exhibit, or explore Agland, more than an acre of agriculture exhibits highlighting Kentucky’s farm and field heritage. Be sure to check the Fair's calendar for additional events like the annual Beer Fest, concerts, and other performances.
Louisville Black Chef Showcase | Aug. 18
Back by popular demand, the Black Chef Showcase returns for a second year to the Mellwood Art Center from 3-6pm. The event celebrates some of Bourbon City's top culinary talents with delicious tastings of a variety of dishes. Each chef will bring their own unique perspective and flavors to the table, creating an unforgettable tasting experience. The event supports the Western High School Culinary Program to help fund culinary supplies, books, food pantry, and uniforms.
Louisville Wing Week | August 19-25
Known for its famous fried chicken, it only makes sense that one of the South's tastiest towns has a week dedicated to chicken wings. Louisville Wing Week pays homage to the wing for seven days with local restaurants frying up their unique takes — from signature sauces to secret menu specialties, all for $8. Download the Wing Week App to help map out your week, try new restaurants, challenge your taste buds, and share your experiences on social with other Louisville wing lovers.
Old Lou Brew | August 23
Held at Frederick Law Olmsted-designed Central Park in Old Louisville, Old Lou Brew Craft Beer Festival combines live music, food trucks, craft beer, and summertime outdoor entertainment, all within the confines of the nation's largest collection of Victorian-era homes. Some of the city's top breweries and some of Kentucky's finest indie brewers will be in attendance. The Friday night festival runs from 6-10 pm and costs $15. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash throughout the park.
Bonsai Weekend | Aug. 23-25
Celebrate Asian culture at the Waterfront Botanical Gardens for the second annual Bonsai Weekend. Guests can observe dozens of bonsai on display, participate in workshops and demonstrations with the Greater Louisville Bonsai Society, and try out some Asian-inspired cuisine. Special guest artist Phil Malhiot will be on site as a judge for the tree show. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Ages 16 and under are free.
Louisville PopCon | Aug. 23-25
Fans of all things pop culture will want to visit the Kentucky International Convention Center in Downtown Louisville this August for the 2nd annual PopCon. This family-friendly event celebrates all things pop culture, including anime, art, board games, cosplay, e-sports, fan panels, gaming, special events, unique experiences, and so much more. More than a dozen special guests will be in attendance as well including Star Trek actors Anson Mount, Christina Chong, and Ethan Peck, along with Luke Cage's Mike Colter and The Walking Dead's Jason Douglas.
Brew at the Louisville Zoo | August 24
This annual Zoo fundraiser allows attendees to enjoy tastings from craft breweries and wineries, as well as listen to live music, all while celebrating wildlife. Tickets include catered appetizers, beverage tastings, animal encounters, special engagements with zookeeper staff, and a silent disco in the Zoo’s shaded Islands habitat area alongside zoo favorites like orangutans and tigers. Funds raised from Brew at the Zoo will benefit Friends of the Louisville Zoo and their mission to support animal care and Zoo special projects. The event will take place from 5pm to 9pm.
Anjelah Johnson-Reyes | August 30-31
Known for her viral videos playing a Nail Salon tech and Bon Qui QUi, Anjelah Johnson-Reyes is set to perform at the Louisville Comedy Club at the end of the month. She will perform four shows over two nights with premium and GA ticket options available.
WorldFest | Aug. 30 - Sept. 2 | FREE
Louisville’s WorldFest is one of the region’s largest international festivals, with nearly 150 international-themed arts, crafts, merchandise, and food booths. Taking place every Labor Day Weekend in Downtown Louisville on the Belvedere, this four-day festival has celebrated cultures from around the world for more than two decades.
American Whiskey Festival | August 31
Known for having one of the world's largest collections of American whiskies, Watch Hill Proper Bourbon will host the 2nd annual American Whiskey Festival on Saturday, August 31, at the Norton Common's North Village Square. The event will take place from 4-10pm and offer three different ticket options. Free admission includes access to live music and food trucks, while a $50 Whiskey Garden Ticket includes access to all whiskey samples from participating distilleries. A $200 VIP Ticket includes all-inclusive food and adult beverages and access to Watch Hill Proper and the Whiskey Garden.
The Labor Day Weekend Show - Jimmy Buffet Tribute Festival | Aug. 31- Sept. 1
Calling all Parrotheads - come on down to the Paristown Art District for a stellar lineup including members from Coral Reefer Band and trending top rock artists. Enjoy a margarita and food from local vendors while listening to the tunes, all in loving memory of Jimmy Buffett.
To find all events happening in and around the city, check out our event calendar. Subscribe to our email newsletters for the latest updates on news and events.
