Fall Festivities in Louisville, Kentucky

Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Louisville, Kentucky, stands as a dynamic and culturally rich city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity. Known for its historical significance, Louisville is famed for being the birthplace of the legendary Muhammad Ali and the annual spectacle of the Kentucky Derby, a world-renowned horse racing event that captures the city's spirit. The city's architecture showcases a harmonious fusion of historic landmarks and contemporary designs, while its neighborhoods offer diverse experiences, from the vibrant energy of Bardstown Road to the historic charm of Old Louisville. The local culinary scene is a testament to Louisville's diversity, with a deep appreciation for bourbon, showcased in its numerous distilleries and culinary creations. With a thriving arts and music community, picturesque parks, and a welcoming atmosphere, Louisville remains a captivating destination for all looking for a fall escape.

Louisville is hosting over 20 Festivals & Events to Attend in Louisville this Fall including:

Louisville Pride Festival | September 9 Held every September in Louisville’s Highlands neighborhood, this annual block party has become a staple end-of-summer event. The 2023 entertainment lineup includes DJ Sam Gee, The Sheryl Rouse Band, Pepper Mashay, and a variety of drag performers. The festival is held across multiple blocks on Bardstown Road, which is also home to some of the city’s most popular LGBTQ bars, including Chill Bar and Big Bar, which stay open late after the festival ends.

Bourbon & Beyond | September 14-17 Proclaimed the "World's Biggest Bourbon & Music Festival, Bourbon & Beyond is back and bigger than ever with a four-day lineup of award-winning musicians. Headliners for the 2023 festival include Brandi Carlile, The Killers, The Black Keys, and Bruno Mars. In addition to incredible music, more than a dozen distilleries will be on-site, offering over 100 different varieties of rare, vintage, and experimental bourbon expressions to taste. Culinary experiences include intoxicating celebrity and Kentucky chef demos, great eats from local restaurants, and a few surprises along the way.

Louisville Jack O’ Lantern Spectacular | October 3-31 Fall favorite Jack O'Lantern Spectacular is back at Louisville Iroquois Park for another season of Halloween fun. Visitors can stroll along a 1/3-mile path to enjoy over 5,000 carved pumpkins illuminated every evening as a part of the nightly art show. This family-friendly Fall celebration is the perfect ending to a day of exploration and has become one of Louisville’s most popular October traditions.

St. James Court Art Show | October 6-8 Celebrating its 67th anniversary in 2023, the St. James Court Art Show is a juried fine art, and contemporary crafts show that brings over 600 artists to the city every first full weekend in October. The event spans 4 square blocks and is set in the Old Louisville neighborhood, home to the country’s most extensive collection of Victorian-era homes.