Zoeller Pump Company Pegasus Parade
2026-04-26 15:00 - 16:30 (America/Kentucky/Louisville) | Kentucky Derby Festival, West on Broadway from Cambell to 9th street, Louisville, KY, 40202, United States
The 2026 Zoeller Pump Company Pegasus Parade returns to Broadway in Downtown Louisville on Sunday, April 26. This family-friendly annual event showcases some of the nation’s finest marching bands and equestrian units, along with inflatable characters and colorful floats.
The parade marches west on Broadway for 17 blocks and lasts approximately two hours.
Originating in 1956 on a budget of only $640, the Pegasus Parade is the Kentucky Derby Festival’s oldest event. Today, the Pegasus Parade is one of the largest in the country, contributing an estimated impact of more than $22 million to the local economy.

The 2026 theme is “Festival on the Move: A Year of Milestones, Memories and Movement!”
The theme honors the journey that connects us all through movement, celebrating our country’s history, our community, and the Derby Festival spirit! Participants are encouraged to celebrate all things that move from iconic American history and technological process to human-powered feats like sports and dancing.
General Admission bleacher seats along the route: FREE, courtesy of Churchill Downs (first come, first served)
For more information :Pegasus Parade | KDF Discover

Great Bed Races Presented by Snap-on
2026-04-27 18:00 - 20:00 | Kentucky Exposition Center, 937 Phillips Lane, Louisville, Kentucky, 40209
Grab four of your co-workers, build a bed on wheels, decorate it, dress in a ridiculous costume—and then race to the finish. That pretty much sums up the Kentucky Derby Festival Great Bed Races.
Each year, thousands of enthusiasts gather to cheer on more than 30 teams, while on-air personalities from WAVE TV anchor the live coverage from every angle, from the crowd to the parade of beds, to every last heat.
Monday, April 27, 2026
1:00 PM: Tailgate Party Starts
6:00 PM: Parade of the Beds
7:00 PM: Races Begin
Spectator admission: FREE with 2026 Pegasus Pin®
Parking: $15 KEC Parking fee.

The 2026 theme is: “Festival on the Move: Ticket to Ride,” which celebrates motion, momentum, and the thrill of exploration!

Bed Team Entry Fee: $175/team (includes 5 participant t-shirts and 5 collectible Pegasus Pins)
Deadline to register a team: April 1st
For more information: Bed Races | KDF Discover

Biscuits and Bourbon
2026-04-28 - 2026-04-29 | Kentucky Derby Museum, 704 Central Ave, Louisville, KY, 40208, United States
Biscuits & Bourbon will take place Tuesday and Wednesday of Derby week, giving guests two opportunities to enjoy what has become one of the best Derby week values. The event blends Southern-inspired brunch bites, specialty bourbon cocktails, and live music at the museum, along with reserved track tickets. The event will take place from 10:00am-1:00pm.
Groups are encouraged to purchase tickets together in a single transaction to ensure brunch and track seating are arranged together. This guarantees you’ll enjoy the event side-by-side with your group!
Event Highlights:

Brunch buffet
Complimentary bar featuring Angel’s Envy
Live music
Churchill Downs track tickets

For tickets and more information: Biscuits & Bourbon — Kentucky Derby Museum

502's Day
2026-04-28 11:30 - 18:00 | Churchill Downs
502’sDay returns for its fourth year, shining the spotlight on what truly makes this city special – the community. General Admission is $5. Guests are encouraged to “Shop Local” and wear outfits from Louisville’s local shops and boutiques.
Gates Open 11:30 a.m. | First Race 12:45 p.m.
For tickets and more information: 502’sDay 2026 | Spring Meet | Events | Kentucky Derby Week Events

Winsday
2026-04-29 11:30 - 18:00 | Churchill Downs
Join us for a day of unity and giving at Churchill Downs on Wednesday of Derby Week! We are thrilled to spotlight the remarkable efforts of local nonprofit organizations through this unique event, celebrating the spirit of community and the impactful work of these vital agencies. Enhance the connections among us all, come be a part of something bigger, support the community, and enjoy a day at the races!

Tickets and more information: Winsday 2026 | Derby Week Events | Events | Kentucky Derby Week Events

Great Steamboat Race by Shepherd Insurance
2026-04-29 16:30 - 19:30 | Belle of Louisville Riverboats, 401 W River Road, Louisville, KY, 40202, United States
As one of the original and longest standing traditions of the Kentucky Derby Festival, the Great Steamboat Race has been taking place on the Ohio River since 1963. Ask any local, this event has become a Louisville tradition in the leadup to Derby weekend!
The event pits vessels against each other, including the Belle of Cincinnati, as they compete for bragging rights in this race on the river!
The Mary M. Miller was declared the winner in 2025. Come see if our beloved local steamboat reigns supreme and takes back the coveted Silver Antlers in 2026.
The race lasts about 2 hours, finishing back at the Wharf. Following the race, the victor is awarded the pair of Silver Antlers during an Awards Ceremony on the Belle of Louisville.
For more information: Great Steamboat Race | KDF Discover

Thurby
2026-04-30 11:30 - 18:00 | Churchill Downs
Presented by Old Forester and in partnership with Frazier History Museum, the venue transforms into an interactive showcase celebrating Kentucky’s rich heritage. This event is a must-attend for history buffs, music lovers, and racing enthusiasts alike, encapsulating Kentucky’s rich culture, spirited music, and deep-rooted traditions. Join us for a day immersed in the true spirit of the Bluegrass State.
Gates open at 10:30 AM, with the first race beginning at 12:45 PM.
For tickets and more information: Thurby 2026 | Derby Week Events | Events | Kentucky Derby Week Events

Festival Day at the Downs
2026-04-30 11:30 - 18:00 | Churchill Downs
Enjoy a day at the races with the Kentucky Derby Festival at the Kentuckiana Honda Dealers Day at the Downs.
Doors open at 11:30 AM and Post Time for the first race is at 12:40 PM. The afternoon’s third race is named for the Derby Festival. The 2026 KDF Chair and the Derby Festival Queen and Royal Court will present an engraved silver tray to the winning jockey, trainer and owner.
Highlights include:

Located on the 4th floor Skye Terrace (all tickets are reserved seating)
Table of 8 includes access to live in-room mutuel tellers, self-service wagering machines and restrooms
Offers tiered, covered balcony to view the races
Open bar, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Chef’s table buffet
Access to offsite parking at the Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center (subject to space availability)
Official Race Day Program

For tickets and more information: Festival Day at the Downs | KDF Discover

152nd Kentucky Oaks
2026-05-01 12:00 - 18:00 | Churchill Downs
The Longines Kentucky Oaks is America’s premier and most lucrative race for 3-year-old fillies – female horses- held each year on the day before the Kentucky Derby. This feature race is a $1.5 million Grade 1 stakes race and awards the winning filly a garland of lilies, appropriately named “lilies for the fillies.” Like the Kentucky Derby, the Longines Kentucky Oaks race is one of the longest continually held sporting events in American history, and one of the only horse races to take place at the original site of its inception. The race was established on May 19th, 1875, by the same founder of the Kentucky Derby, Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark, and is modeled after the British Epsom Oaks. View the fillies in the Longines Kentucky Oaks.
Kentucky Oaks Day at Churchill Downs is the second-highest attended horse race in the United States, following the Triple Crown of racing: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. Aside from thunderous live horse racing, fans celebrate fashion and fundraising for critical women’s health issues.
For tickets and more information: Kentucky Oaks 2026 | Derby Week Events | Events | Kentucky Derby Week Events

152nd Kentucky Derby
2026-05-02 11:30 - 18:00 | Churchill Downs
The 152nd Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve is the world’s Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®. You’ll have the opportunity to witness the world’s most promising 3-year-old thoroughbreds as they come together to compete for the cherished garland of roses. It’s a race that defines the pinnacle of horse racing excitement.
But the Kentucky Derby is about more than just the race; it’s an immersive experience. Sip on a refreshing mint julep, adorn yourself with a stunning hat, and join the chorus of fellow race enthusiasts as we sing along to the cherished tune ‘My Old Kentucky Home”. This is more than a day at the races; it’s a grand celebration of 152 years of tradition, history, and the thrilling spirit of the Kentucky Derby.
For tickets and more information: Kentucky Derby 2026 | Derby Week Events | Events | Kentucky Derby Week Events

Beltane Festival
2026-05-03 11:00 - 19:00 | The Carriage House at Howard Stramboat Museum, 1101 E. Market Street, Jeffersonville, IN, 47130, United States
Beltane Festival is a family-friendly, free-to-attend Event at The Carriage House at Howard Steamboat Museum.
Come celebrate the beginning of summer, midpoint between the spring equinox and summer solstice.
Crafting for the kids, local group performances, Maypole Dance, Mimosa Bar (supplied by Pearl Street Taproom), 20+ Vendors with handmade items. Dressing for the occasion is encouraged but not required.
For more information: Beltane Festival Tickets, Sunday, May 3 from 11 am to 7 pm | Eventbrite

Maifest
2026-05-09 14:00 - 22:00 | German American Club, 1840 Lincoln Avenue, 40213, KY, 40213, United States
Celebrate Spring at the German American Club with our Annual Maifest! This is the opening event to our outdoor Biergarten season – Family Friendly and Free Entry with lots of events throughout the day, including a Brat Toss, Facepainting, Live Music, and More! Sample the largest selection of imported German Beer on tap in the region and enjoy that with a German dinner served from 5-8 pm.
All Animals must be service animals.

Abbey Road on the River
2026-05-21 - 2026-05-24 | Big Four Station Park, 223 Pearl Street, Jeffersonville, IN, 47130, United States
Abbey Road on the River, the world’s largest Beatles and classic rock tribute festival, will return to the Big Four Station Park in Jeffersonville, IN this Memorial Day weekend – May 21-25, 2026. The 5-day event will feature performances from over 50 bands including Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, Micky Dolenz of The Monkees, and America’s favorite family band – The Cowsills! Attendees can also enjoy interactive art installations, food and beverage services, retail vendors, and a children’s playground area. Get your ticket to ride! Visit www.arotr.com to get more information.
For tickets and more information: Abbey Road on the River: May 21-25, 2026

4th Annual Bonsai Weekend
2026-05-29 - 2026-05-31 | Waterfront Botanical Gardens, 1435 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY, 40206, United States
Presented by David Graeser, and the guest artist and judge is Jennifer Price. There will be workshops, demonstrations, a vendor marketplace, live music, food and drinks, and other activities.
Friday, May 29: 11 am – 5 pm
Saturday, May 30: 11 am – 5 pm
Sunday, May 31: Asia Institute-Crane House Day – 11 am – 4 pm
Ticket Prices
$10 WBG & Bonsai Society Members
$12 in Advance
$15 at the door
FREE ages 16 and under
For tickets and more information: 4th Annual Bonsai Weekend – Waterfront Botanical Gardens

Downtown Pickleball Street Fest
2026-05-30 08:30 - 14:00 | IN
The third annual Downtown Pickleball Street Fest sponsored by Angel’s Envy Distillery is back on Saturday, May 30! This exciting Pickleball extravaganza celebrates the beloved sport of Pickleball and the vibrant culture Downtown Louisville has to offer.
Brought to you by the Louisville Downtown Partnership and Goodbounce Pickleball Yard & Wellness, E. Main Street will be transformed into an outdoor Pickleball venue featuring Pickleball courts for competitive tournaments and open play opportunities, a wellness expo, yard games, DJ entertainment, a variety of food trucks, a pop-up bar with local beer – including Downtown’s Beer – from Ten20 Craft Brewery, and a specialty Angel’s Envy bar featuring their signature Peach Smash cocktail.
The fest will include Pickleball celebrity matches, open play, and a multi-ranking round-robin tournament hosted by Goodbounce Pickleball Yard & Wellness, welcoming players of all skill levels. Registration is open with entry fees of $10.00 – $20.00. Medals will be awarded to the top three teams in each division.
For tickets and more information: Downtown Pickleball Street Fest – Louisville Downtown Partnership
Location: E. Main Street between S. Jackson and S. Hancock streets. 500 E. Main Street Louisville, KY 40202

Aloha Lou Festival
2026-05-30 11:00 - 16:00 | Central Park, 1340 4th Street, Louisville, KY, 40208, United States
Hui Kaululehua, led by Kaila Chung, is thrilled to announce the return of Polynesian Cultural Festival, Aloha Lou!, on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm ET, at Central Park (1340 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40208). This vibrant celebration of Polynesian culture will feature an array of performances, including traditional and modern hula by Hālau o Keikiali`i and Hui Kaululehua, Samoan dance by Avealuga Siva, Tahitian dance and modern hula by Anna Guerrero, and Niuean dance. Families and children can enjoy family-centered programming featuring lei-making, music workshops, face painting, story time, and more. Additionally, attendees can explore a diverse array of Asian American Pacific Islander arts and food vendors.
For more information: Aloha Lou! Festival — Hui Kaululehua

2026 Portland Festival
2026-06-05 17:00 - 23:00 | IN
We are excited to announce that The Portland Festival is back! The Festival isn’t just an event; it’s built by neighbors and enjoyed by all. As a 100% volunteer-run celebration, it is created by the community, for the community. Now in our 52nd year, we are working hard to showcase the energy and heart of one of Louisville’s oldest neighborhoods. Every dollar raised first ensures we keep this tradition alive.
2026 Event Schedule
• Festival Kickoff: Friday, June 5th | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• The Main Event: Saturday, June 6th | 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• The 2026 Parade: Saturday, June 6th | 12:00 PM (Leading directly into the festival)
Location: Outdoors on the public streets beginning at N 33rd St and Northwestern Parkway, near the newly renovated Portland Library.
Festival Highlights

The Portland Parade: A high-energy showcase of local art, performance groups, and creative floats.
New ‘Best of the West’ Stage: A premier addition for 2026! We are spotlighting the soul of our community by featuring the best local talent, from rising youth stars and local music acts to interactive community contests. This stage is a dedicated space for the West End’s finest performers to shine. Stay tuned to our Facebook page as we finalize plans for how to participate.
Food Truck Row & Local Makers: A diverse lineup of food trucks, dessert vendors, and local artists/makers. Cold beer will be available for guests 21+.
Live Music: A diverse range of incredibly talented bands and performers.

For more information: Portland Festival | Celebrating Portland Louisville, KY

Louisville Wine Walk
2026-06-06 14:00 - 18:00 | Fourth Street Live!, 411 S Fourth Street, Louisville, KY, 40202, United States
Sip, stroll, and savor your way through Wine Walk at Fourth Street Live!, a token-style wine tasting experience in the heart of downtown Louisville. From 2–6 PM, explore a vibrant mix of curated wine pours, chef-inspired bites, and offerings from local vendors, all paired with live entertainment. Designed for both casual sippers and seasoned connoisseurs, Wine Walk invites guests to discover new favorites while enjoying an interactive, social atmosphere. With exclusive selections and flavors around every corner, it’s the perfect way to indulge, connect, and experience one of Louisville’s most exciting wine events. Whether you’re planning a day out with friends or searching for a unique food and wine festival, Wine Walk delivers the perfect blend of flavor, music, and energy.

For tickets and more information: Wine Walk

Kentuckiana Pride Festival & Parade
2026-06-20 12:00 - 22:00 | Waterfront Park Big Four Bridge Lawn, 1101 River Road, Louisville, KY, 40202, United States
One of the largest LGBTQ+ events in Kentucky! An estimated 20,000+ people join us to celebrate the LGBTQ+ Community with an annual parade, vendor marketplace, food vendors, entertainment, and more. The 2026 Kentuckiana Pride Parade kicks off at 12:00 PM (Noon) on Saturday, June 20th, and runs through the Nulu area, ending at the Big Four Lawn, where the festival runs until 10:00 PM.
For tickets and more information: Festival – Kentuckiana Pride

Kentucky Craft Bash
2026-06-27 17:00 - 21:00 | Brown-Forman Lawn, Waterfront Park, 1301 River Road, Louisville, Louisville, 40202
The Kentucky Craft Bash is the Commonwealth’s largest craft beer festival featuring solely Kentucky breweries. Hosted annually by the Kentucky Guild of Brewers, this beer fest isn’t just the place to experience Kentucky’s brewing industry, it’s also the largest fundraiser for the Kentucky Guild of Brewers, a nonprofit advocating for and advancing Kentucky’s craft beer industry. Every ticket sold helps empower local breweries, fuel industry growth, and keep Kentucky beer pouring strong. Cheers to Kentucky beer!
For tickets and more information: Kentucky Craft Bash

Jeffersontown Amphitheater "Stars & Stripes" Fest
2026-07-03 18:00 - 23:30 | Jeffersontown Amphitheater, 10721 Old Taylorsville Road, Jeffersontown, KY
The J-Town Stars & Stripes Fest Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary presents Kentucky native JD SHELBURNE LIVE IN CONCERT at the NEW Jeffersontown Amphitheater in Jeffersontown, KY on Friday, July 3rd. This concert will feature Shelburne and his full Nashville band.
Local artist Brock Shoemaker will open the show.
For tickets and more information: Jeffersontown Amphitheater

World Championship Dainty Contest
2026-07-25 17:00 | Hauck’s Corner, 100 Goss Avenue, Louisville, KY, 40217
One of Louisville’s most unique traditions will continue for a 56th year. Held in the Schnitzelburg neighborhood, this obscure German street game has become a cherished tradition that draws crowds onto the sidewalk of George Hauck Way to eat bologna sandwiches, listen to ragtime music, and watch contestants swing a whittled broomstick in hopes of being crowned a world champion.

Watch Hill Proper - 4th Annual American Whiskey Festival
2027-07-20 17:00 - 22:00 | North Village Square, Norton Commons, 6320 Rosebay Street, Prospect, Kentucky, 40059, United States
Watch Hill Proper – Fourth Annual American Whiskey Festival
August 15
Norton Commons
Expanded VIP Experiences, Private Tastings, and Live Music
Tickets on Sale Now
Watch Hill Proper will host the Fourth Annual American Whiskey Festival on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 5 to 10 p.m. at North Village Square in Norton Commons. The free, family-friendly event will feature live music, whiskey and wine tastings, local food vendors, artisan merchants, and enhanced VIP experiences. Tickets are on sale now.
Presented by Thomas Law Offices, the festival will welcome more than 40 distilleries and wineries offering tastings throughout the evening. Guests ages 21 and older can enjoy the Whiskey & Wine Garden, sponsored by Duckhorn Vineyards, featuring curated whiskey and wine experiences.
Live entertainment will take place on the Doo Wop Stage, sponsored by Doo Wop Shop, with performances by Soul Circus, Laurie Jane & The 45s, and Kimmet & Friends.
Guests seeking an elevated experience may purchase upgraded tasting packages, including access to the Whiskey & Wine Garden or the all-inclusive VIP Experience, which offers premium pours, specialty cocktails, chef-driven cuisine, and exclusive lounge access inside Watch Hill Proper.
Experience Options
Whiskey & Wine Garden – $60
Unlimited pours from more than 40 American whiskey brands and wines from Duckhorn Vineyards.
All-Inclusive VIP Experience – $300
Includes Whiskey & Wine Garden access, exclusive pours, specialty cocktails, food by Chef Michael Crouch, and private lounge access inside Watch Hill Proper.
New for 2026
Festival organizers are introducing four distiller-led private tastings, providing guests with an intimate opportunity to sample rare selections and hear directly from industry experts.
Private Tastings – $50 per person
Tickets are sold separately and are not included with Whiskey & Wine Garden or VIP admission.
Since its launch in Norton Commons, the American Whiskey Festival has become one of Louisville’s premier summer events, drawing thousands of attendees each year to celebrate American whiskey, wine, food, music, and community.
Tickets are available now at: https://www.watchhillproper.com/awf2026
About Watch Hill Proper Bourbon Bar & Kitchen
Watch Hill Proper is home to the world’s most extensive menu of American whiskey and the largest bourbon collection in the country. Located in Norton Commons, just northeast of downtown Louisville, Watch Hill Proper is a dining destination dedicated to celebrating American whiskey, particularly Kentucky bourbon. The restaurant hosts public and private events, including bourbon and wine tastings, meet-and-greets with master distillers, and chef-driven themed dinners.
