Louisville, January 17, 2026
Louisville, Kentucky is hosting a diverse range of events this weekend, from the Harlem Globetrotters’ basketball celebration to a dynamic adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Emma”. Residents can enjoy the Louisville Build, Renovate & Landscape Expo, honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a community festival, and attend a thrilling tribute to Prince. Each event embodies the spirit of community engagement and culture, making Louisville a lively destination for all.
Louisville KY: Top Events for the Weekend of January 16-18, 2026
Your Guide to Exciting Events This Weekend in Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky, is buzzing with energy as it welcomes a variety of events this weekend, from thrilling sports activities to enriching cultural performances. There is truly something for everyone, making it the perfect opportunity to engage with the local community. The commitment of local organizers to bring these events to life exemplifies the spirit of resilience and determination, celebrating our rich cultural heritage while fostering community connections.
This weekend highlights the capacity for less bureaucratic red tape in achieving remarkable gatherings, allowing the community to flourish through strengthened local initiatives. Residents are invited to get out there, enjoy the festivities, and appreciate the contributions of both public and private sectors that make these experiences possible.
1. Harlem Globetrotters: 100-Year Tour
Event: Harlem Globetrotters 100-Year Tour
Date & Time: Friday, January 16, 7:00 p.m.
Location: KFC Yum! Center
Description: Celebrate a century of basketball entertainment with the Harlem Globetrotters’ 100-Year Tour. This show promises gravity-defying dunks, inventive trick shots, and family-friendly humor, appealing to audiences of all ages. Tickets start at $50.
2. “Emma” by Kentucky Shakespeare
Event: “Emma” by Kentucky Shakespeare
Date & Time: Friday, January 16, 7:00 p.m.; Saturday, January 17, 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.; Sunday, January 18, 2:00 p.m.
Location: Actors Theatre of Louisville
Description: Kentucky Shakespeare presents a fresh, feminist adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic tale “Emma.” Experience the engaging matchmaking adventures of a young woman in this vibrant production. Tickets are priced at $25, plus a $5 ticketing fee.
3. Louisville Build, Renovate & Landscape Expo
Event: Louisville Build, Renovate & Landscape Expo
Date & Time: Friday, January 16, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.; Saturday, January 17, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Sunday, January 18, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Kentucky Exposition Center
Description: Discover the latest offerings in home improvement, renovation, and landscaping at this comprehensive expo. Meet industry experts and explore innovative products while gathering ideas for your next home project. Tickets are affordable at $4 for adults, and children under 18 enter for free.
4. “Keepers of the Dream: Beyond the Dream”
Event: “Keepers of the Dream: Beyond the Dream”
Date & Time: Sunday, January 18, 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Kentucky Center for the Arts
Description: This free event honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a short play intertwined with music, dance, and spoken word. The festival will feature local vendors, visual art, and live performances, emphasizing community involvement and unity. Louisville’s Mayor Craig Greenberg will also present the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award during the event.
5. The Prince Experience
Event: The Prince Experience
Date & Time: Friday, January 16, 8:00 p.m.
Location: Mercury Ballroom
Description: Fans of the legendary artist Prince can enjoy an unforgettable evening as The Prince Experience, a tribute band fronted by Gabriel Sanchez, performs iconic hits that celebrate the artist’s remarkable legacy. Tickets are priced at $27.50 before tax and fees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Harlem Globetrotters 100-Year Tour?
The Harlem Globetrotters 100-Year Tour is a special event celebrating a century of basketball entertainment, featuring gravity-defying dunks, trick shots, and family-friendly humor. The show is scheduled for Friday, January 16, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky. Tickets start at $50.
Where is “Emma” by Kentucky Shakespeare being performed?
“Emma” by Kentucky Shakespeare is being performed at the Actors Theatre of Louisville. The play runs from Friday, January 9, through Sunday, January 18, 2026, with showtimes on Friday at 7:00 p.m., Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and Sunday at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $25, plus a $5 ticketing fee.
What is the Louisville Build, Renovate & Landscape Expo?
The Louisville Build, Renovate & Landscape Expo is a comprehensive home show held at the Kentucky Exposition Center from Friday, January 16, through Sunday, January 18, 2026. The expo features home improvement, renovation, and landscaping ideas, with tickets priced at $4 for adults; children under 18 enter free.
What is “Keepers of the Dream: Beyond the Dream”?
“Keepers of the Dream: Beyond the Dream” is a free event honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., featuring a short play interwoven with music, dance, and spoken word. The event takes place on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Kentucky Center for the Arts in Louisville, Kentucky. The community festival includes local vendors, visual art, and live performances. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg will present the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award during the event.
Where is The Prince Experience performing?
The Prince Experience is performing at the Mercury Ballroom on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. The tribute band, led by Gabriel Sanchez, offers an unforgettable performance of Prince’s iconic music. Tickets are $27.50 before tax and fees.
Event Details
| Event | Date & Time | Location | Description | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harlem Globetrotters: 100-Year Tour | Friday, January 16, 7:00 p.m. | KFC Yum! Center | Celebrate a century of basketball entertainment with gravity-defying dunks, trick shots, and family-friendly humor. | Starting at $50 |
| “Emma” by Kentucky Shakespeare | Friday, January 16, 7:00 p.m.; Saturday, January 17, 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.; Sunday, January 18, 2:00 p.m. | Actors Theatre of Louisville | A fresh, feminist adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel, offering a vibrant take on a young woman’s matchmaking adventures. | $25 plus $5 ticketing fee |
| Louisville Build, Renovate & Landscape Expo | Friday, January 16, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.; Saturday, January 17, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Sunday, January 18, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Kentucky Exposition Center | Discover the latest in home improvement, renovation, and landscaping with industry experts and innovative products. | $4 for adults; children under 18 enter free |
| “Keepers of the Dream: Beyond the Dream” | Sunday, January 18, 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | Kentucky Center for the Arts | A free community festival featuring a short play, music, dance, and spoken word, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. | Free admission |
| The Prince Experience | Friday, January 16, 8:00 p.m. | Mercury Ballroom | An electrifying tribute to the music of Prince, performed by The Prince Experience. | $27.50 before tax and fees |
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