Worldfest Brings International Flair to Bourbon City
21st annual festival offers new happy hour preview Aug 31
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (August 17, 2023) — The 21st annual WorldFest kicks off on the Belvedere on Friday, September 1, and runs through Monday, September 4. The four-day WorldFest features three entertainment stages showcasing more than 70 acts, along with a Global Village representing more than 20 countries, free children’s activities, a Parade of Cultures and more.
New this year, the first WorldFest Happy Hour will take place on Thursday, August 31, from 4 to 8 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to come and check out WorldFest a day early, enjoy live entertainment and receive food and drink specials from select WorldFest vendors. Live entertainment is brought to the Fountain Stage as well.
The festival also features more than 40 food vendors and over 100 booths offering global crafts, merchandise and culture within the World Hub. The Global Village Overlook Plaza will host one of four Stella Artois Biergartens where those 21 years and older can responsibly sample a selection of international and domestic beers. The popular Children’s Area will offer free activities Saturday through Monday with face painting, games, crafts and more.
On September 1, the Louisville Metro Office for Immigrant Affairs will host the Naturalization Ceremony at the Muhammad Ali Center where more than 60 immigrants will become U.S. citizens. The next day, the Parade of Cultures will take place. Residents will march down 5th Street to the top of the Belvedere dressed in native attire to showcase our city’s cultural heritage and diversity.
The Belvedere, which has been home to WorldFest for the past 21 years, is celebrating 50 years. Since its opening on April 27, 1973, the Belvedere has welcomed hundreds of festivals, concerts, dances and other celebrations.
WorldFest admission is free and open to the public. To learn more, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/city-events/worldfest. Participants are encouraged to share photos on social media using #WorldFestLou and tagging @AroundLou.
Guests can use Louisville Tourism’s annual Visitor Guide to see the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots and bourbon distilleries. Travelers also can get attraction, lodging and dining assistance at gotolouisville.com.