Top events happening in Louisville this March

2026 Oscar Nominated Short Films | Friday, Feb. 20-Sunday March 8
Now in its 21st year, the Speed Art Museum’s 142-seat, state-of-the-art Speed Cinema, will host screenings of Oscar-nominated short films in three categories: animated, live action, and documentary. It’s your chance to see a selection of shorts and predict winners ahead of the Academy Awards on Sunday, March 15.

LaValle Smith Jr. | Thursday, March 5
This Louisvillian, known for choreographing for music legends, including Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, and Beyoncé Knowles, will blend conversation and live dance showcasing his journey from Kentucky to international acclaim, performing choreography from LaVelle’s own repertoire and Michael Jackson’s iconic catalog.

The Millennium Tour Presents: The Boys 4 Life Tour | Friday, March 6
Taking place at the KFC Yum! Center downtown, the Millennium Tour will reunite, after two decades, one of the most iconic R&B groups, B2K. The star-studded lineup also includes performances from Bow Wow, Jeremih, Waka Flocka, Amerie, Yung Joc, Crime Mob, and Franchize Boyz with special guests Pretty Ricky.

Tailspin Ale Fest | Saturday, March 7
Take flight at the historic Bowman Field airport, one of the oldest continually operated airports in the U.S., for the 13th annual end-of-winter beer fest. The outdoor event features over 250 samples from 50+ breweries, food trucks, a cigar lounge, a silent disco, live music, and a display of historic planes.

Monster Jam | Saturday, March 7 & Sunday, March 8
Louisville’s Freedom Hall will play host to 12,000-lb themed monster trucks — like Megalodon and Sparkle Smash — competing in a series of competitions to show off their high-flying stunts and racing skills.

Dropkick Murphys | Sunday, March 8
This Irish-American Celtic punk band best known for their high-energy, working-class anthems blending Irish traditional music with punk rock and heavy metal will perform at Old Forester’s Paristown Hall.

PNC Broadway presents Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” | Tuesday, March 10-Sunday, March 15
See the “Tale As Old As Time” at the Kentucky Center’s Whitney Hall. This Oscar-winning musical first premiered on Broadway in 1994, and now it’s celebrating its 30th anniversary production with new sets and costumes.

Cinch World’s Toughest Rodeo | Friday, March 13 & Saturday, March 14
Get in on two nights of rodeo action at the KFC Yum! Center featuring the world’s toughest cowboys in bull riding, saddle bronc riding, and bareback riding competitions. Come early for pony rides and cowboy meet-and-greets — plus, try bucking chutes on the live photo bull.

St. Patrick’s Parade | Saturday, March 14 | FREE
Line the corridors of Bardstown Road and Baxter Avenue in the eclectic Highlands neighborhood for this annual parade and St. Patty’s celebration, which begins at 3 p.m. The parade has taken place for over 50 years and features local parade floats and marching bands — plus, there’s plenty of green beer to go around thanks to the surrounding Irish bars Molly Malone's, O'Shea's, and Flanagan's.

Louisville City FC Home Opener | Saturday, March 14
LouCity FC will kick off their 2026 season against Miami FC at Lynn Family Stadium in Butchertown. The team has been a powerhouse in the USL Championship soccer league over the past decade and ranks as a team with one highest game attendance. Plus, the first 2,000 fans will get a free LouCity roller banner.

Leela James “2BHONEST Tour” | Sunday, March 15
See this R&B singer who has toured with the Black Eyed Peas and Macy Gray perform at Old Forester’s Paristown Hall.

“Take it to the Limit”: Celebrating the Music & Legacy of the Eagles | Monday, March 16
Celebrate the music of the Eagles as “Take It to the Limit” makes its Louisville debut at the Brown Theatre. The acclaimed tribute show performs classic hits like “Hotel California” and “Desperado,” recreating the harmonies and energy of an authentic Eagles concert experience.

Racing Louisville FC Home Opener | Friday, March 20
Racing Louisville FC, Kentucky’s top-tier women's professional soccer team, will open their 2026 season with a match against the Washington Spirit at Lynn Family Stadium. Pregame entertainment includes a concert by Tony and the Tan Lines, inflatables, lawn games, and happy hours — plus, there will be a post-game fireworks show.

Choreographer’s Showcase | Friday, March 20-Sunday, March 29
See the artistry and athleticism of the Louisville Ballet in a behind-the-scenes studio setting during this annual production of new works where you’ll be inches away from the artists you typically see on stage. Styles range from classical to contemporary, with everything in between.

Breakfast with the Beasts | Saturday, March 21
Enjoy a wild morning at the Louisville Zoo. A waffle bar will be served near the bear exhibit, and guests will get an up-close look at how the animals start their day.

Kentucky Derby Museum Hat Show | Sunday, March 22
Kick off Derby season in style at the Kentucky Derby Museum with a lively brunch that will feature Debry hat runway show, chances to meet milliners, and shopping opportunities to help you find the perfect look for race day.

Riverdance 30: The New Generation | Tuesday, March 24
Celebrate 30 years of Riverdance at The Kentucky Center with a spectacular anniversary tour featuring Grammy-winning music, dazzling choreography, and a new generation of performers. This refreshed production blends traditional Irish dance with modern staging, lighting, and visuals for an energetic performance.

Louisville Bats Opening Night | Friday, March 27
Buy us some peanuts and cracker jacks because baseball is back in Bourbon City. The Louisville Bats will open their 2026 season at Slugger Field against the Omaha Storm Chasers. Plus, don’t miss out on opening night specials: $1 beer specials and a magnetic schedule giveaway.

Louisville Arcade Expo | Friday, March 27 –Sunday, March 29
Prove you’re a pinball wizard or a classic gaming champ on hundreds of free play arcade games and pinball machines. The two-day gaming showcase at the Triple Crown Pavilion will also feature vendors, classic computers, classic consoles, and host tournaments. Cosplay is also encouraged.

Tattoo Fest | Friday, March 27-Sunday, March 29
Enter the world of tattooing at the Kentucky International Convention Center. The festival hosts over 200 of the best artists from around the world. Attendees will have the opportunity to get tattooed by traveling and local artists alike. Book your favorite artist in advance or find artists that are taking walk-up tattoos.

NuLu Bock Fest & Wurst Fest | Saturday, March 28 | FREE
Located on a stretch of Market Street between Nanny Goat Strut and Billy Goat Strut, the NuLu Bock Fest celebrates Louisville's rich beer history with local breweries, music, and goat races. Wurst Fest is back for 2026 too, and will feature Louisville restaurants facing off to create their best sausage. The festivities start at 12 p.m. and end at 6 p.m.

Sweet Honey in the Rock | Sunday, March 29
This Grammy‑nominated ensemble will perform at The Kentucky Center’s Bomhard Theater. Blending rich harmonies, activism, and diverse musical styles, the group inspires audiences worldwide while addressing civil rights, empowerment, and community through decades of dynamic live shows.

For more happenings in Bourbon City, check these 15+ spring festivals you can’t miss.