Kentucky, January 7, 2026
Kentucky and Southern Indiana are preparing for a range of local events that highlight community spirit and engagement. From musical festivals to cultural celebrations, these gatherings offer unique opportunities for residents to participate and connect with their neighbors. Festivals such as the Kentucky State Fair and the Mayberry Comes to Scottsburg festival showcase local talent and foster community pride, providing fun and entertainment for all ages. Mark your calendars and join in the excitement as these events bring the community together.
Exciting Upcoming Events in Kentucky and Southern Indiana
Discover what lies ahead for Louisville KY’s vibrant community
As we step further into 2026, Louisville KY and its neighboring regions in southern Indiana are bustling with activity. A rich array of local events awaits, showcasing the resilience and creativity of community organizers. These gatherings offer a unique opportunity for residents to engage, celebrate, and connect—proving that, even in the face of bureaucratic challenges, local spirit and resourcefulness shine bright.
By fostering collaborations between local businesses, non-profits, and city officials, many of these events demonstrate the power of volunteerism and individual initiative in creating meaningful community experiences. From festive fairs to music festivals and cultural celebrations, these upcoming events highlight the importance of civic engagement in enhancing the local landscape.
January 2026
New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Kentucky Kingdom
Location: Louisville, KY
Date: December 31, 2025
Description: Kentucky Kingdom celebrated the arrival of 2026 with a spectacular fireworks display at 7:50 p.m. The 15-minute show featured fireworks launching up to 350 feet in the air, synchronized to music, and was visible from anywhere in the park. Viewing was included with park admission.
June 2026
Mayberry Comes to Scottsburg
Location: Scottsburg, IN
Date: June 14, 2026
Description: This festival celebrates the beloved “The Andy Griffith Show” with tribute artists, special guests, a parade, car show, variety shows, and more.
Lexington Old Settlers Days
Location: Lexington, IN
Date: June 19-20, 2026
Description: The 148th Old Settlers Days Festival features live entertainment, multiple vendors, a fish fry, mini golf, kiddie tractor pull, 5K run/walk, and various family-friendly activities.
July 2026
Rock the Country Festival
Location: Boyd County Fairgrounds, Ashland, KY
Date: July 11-12, 2025
Description: Headlined by Kid Rock and Nickelback, this two-day festival offers music, food, and more.
Healing Appalachia
Location: Boyd County Fairgrounds, Ashland, KY
Date: September 19-20, 2025
Description: Headlined by Tyler Childers and Chris Stapleton, this music festival aims to combat the opioid crisis in the Appalachian region. Every ticket purchased and donation made supports building a brighter, healthier future for the Appalachia region.
August 2026
The Kentucky State Fair
Location: Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY
Date: August 14-24, 2025
Description: The fair features a variety of outdoor concerts, including the Texas Roadhouse concert series, which is free with admission. Additional tents with live music are available daily.
September 2026
Bourbon and Beyond
Location: Kentucky Exposition Center lawn, Louisville, KY
Date: September 11-14, 2025
Description: A four-day concert filled with amazing bands, bourbon, food, and more. Acts perform on several stages throughout the day.
Louder Than Life
Location: Kentucky Exposition Center lawn, Louisville, KY
Date: September 18-21, 2025
Description: The largest rock and metal festival featuring four days of music and more, with acts performing on several stages throughout the day.
October 2026
Downtown BGKY Harvest Festival
Location: Fountain Row, Bowling Green, KY
Date: October 18, 2025
Description: A harvest festival featuring various activities and entertainment.
Orchestra Kentucky: Songbird – Karine Hannah Sings Barbra Streisand
Location: Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center, Bowling Green, KY
Date: October 18, 2025
Description: A performance by Karine Hannah, singing songs by Barbra Streisand.
Breast Cancer Awareness Ride/Luncheon
Location: Anna’s Greek Restaurant, Bowling Green, KY
Date: October 18, 2025
Description: An event to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research.
Bowling Green Anime-Fest Show
Location: National Corvette Museum, Bowling Green, KY
Date: October 19, 2025
Description: An anime festival featuring various shows and activities.
Gerald Wolf’s Hymn Sing: Fall Tour
Location: Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center, Bowling Green, KY
Date: October 19, 2025
Description: A hymn sing event as part of the fall tour.
November 2026
Southern Indiana SHRM – Fall Conference
Location: Not specified
Date: November 1, 2025
Description: A two-day conference organized by the Southern Indiana Society for Human Resource Management.
Louisville Zoo – Throo the Boo
Location: Louisville, KY
Date: November 6, 2025
Description: A Halloween event at the Louisville Zoo.
Leadership Southern Indiana – FOCUS Day
Location: Not specified
Date: November 6, 2025
Description: A day focused on leadership development in Southern Indiana.
New Albany Main Street – Harvest Homecoming
Location: New Albany, IN
Date: October 13, 2025
Description: A harvest festival featuring various activities and vendors.
Better Business Bureau – Clay Shoot
Location: Jefferson Gun Club, Louisville, KY
Date: November 8, 2025
Description: A clay shooting event organized by the Better Business Bureau.
Better Business Bureau – Women’s Self Defense Class
Location: Kentucky TaeKwonDo, Louisville, KY
Date: November 8, 2025
Description: A self-defense class for women organized by the Better Business Bureau.
St. Elizabeth Catholic Charities – Reverse Raffle
Location: Huber’s Orchard & Winery, Louisville, KY
Date: November 8, 2025
Description: A reverse raffle event organized by St. Elizabeth Catholic Charities.
Purdue Polytechnic – Pumpkin Chunking
Location: Not specified
Date: November 8, 2025
Description: A pumpkin chunking event organized by Purdue Polytechnic.
Access Justice – A Taste of Justice
Location: Progress Park and Airstream Events Venue, Louisville, KY
Date: November 13, 2025
Description: A fundraising event organized by Access Justice.
Ronald McDonald House – Intro to RMHCK
Location: Not specified
Date: November 13, 2025
Description: An introductory event to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kentuckiana.
New Albany Main Street – Jingle Walk
Location: New Albany, IN
Date: November 25, 2025
Description: A festive walk featuring music and holiday spirit.
Conclusion
These diverse events in Kentucky and southern Indiana reflect a robust community ready to engage and enhance local culture. From families looking for entertainment to individuals interested in advocacy and education, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Supporting such events not only strengthens our local economy but also fosters a sense of belonging and civic pride.
As we head into 2026, let’s continue to celebrate, participate, and uplift our communities. Mark your calendars and join in the excitement of these upcoming gatherings!
FAQ
What is the New Year’s Eve Fireworks event at Kentucky Kingdom?
The event celebrated the arrival of 2026 with a spectacular fireworks display at 7:50 p.m. The 15-minute show featured fireworks launching up to 350 feet in the air, synchronized to music, and was visible from anywhere in the park. Viewing was included with park admission.
When is the Mayberry Comes to Scottsburg festival?
This festival celebrates the beloved “The Andy Griffith Show” on June 14, 2026, with tribute artists, special guests, a parade, car show, variety shows, and more.
Where is the Kentucky State Fair held?
The Kentucky State Fair is held at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, KY, from August 14-24, 2025.
What type of activities can I expect at the Lexington Old Settlers Days festival?
The festival features live entertainment, multiple vendors, a fish fry, mini-golf, kiddie tractor pull, 5K run/walk, and various family-friendly activities on June 19-20, 2026.
| Event | Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Eve Fireworks | December 31, 2025 | Louisville, KY | Fireworks display celebrating the New Year. |
| Mayberry Comes to Scottsburg | June 14, 2026 | Scottsburg, IN | Festival celebrating “The Andy Griffith Show.” |
| Kentucky State Fair | August 14-24, 2025 | Louisville, KY | Fair featuring concerts, vendors, and activities. |
| Lexington Old Settlers Days | June 19-20, 2026 | Lexington, IN | Festival with live entertainment, vendors, and activities. |
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