Louisville, KY, January 9, 2026
The Kentucky Derby Festival is offering locals a chance to become the Thundernator for the Thunder Over Louisville event. This prestigious role includes the honor of pressing the button to launch the fireworks display, along with a comprehensive prize package for the winner. Participation is open through the purchase of Kentucky Lottery tickets, inviting fans to engage in a cherished local tradition.
Become the Thundernator at Thunder Over Louisville 2026
Get Ready for Your Chance to Kick Off the Kentucky Derby Festival
Louisville, KY – The Kentucky Derby Festival is inviting locals to participate in an exciting opportunity to serve as the Thundernator for the 2026 Thunder Over Louisville event. This prestigious role comes with the unique honor of pressing the button to kick off the fireworks display on April 18, 2026, and also includes a fantastic prize package.
The call for a “Festival Fanatic” reflects the vibrant spirit of Louisville’s community engagement and highlights the essential role that local traditions play in our culture. As this event remains one of the most anticipated parts of the Kentucky Derby Festival season, it underscores the importance of personal initiative and collective involvement in enriching our shared experiences.
How to Enter
To enter the contest, participants must purchase any Kentucky Lottery Pick 3 or Pick 4 ticket valued at $5 or more. The entry period runs from January 8 through February 5, 2026. Once you have your tickets, register for a Fan Club account on the Kentucky Lottery website or app and simply submit your eligible tickets for a chance to be named the Thundernator. A drawing will take place on or around February 9, 2026, to determine the lucky winner.
Prize Package Details
The winner of the Thundernator contest will enjoy a remarkable prize inclusive of:
- A ticket package featuring four tickets each to several exciting events, including the Shepherd Insurance Great Steamboat Race, Festival Day at the Downs, an exclusive VIP Rooftop Party at the Thunder Over Louisville, and the Pegasus Parade.
- A private tour of Kern’s Kitchen DERBY-PIE® factory.
- A certificate for a Kentucky Derby Museum tour.
- Official 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival merchandise.
- Overnight accommodations at The Galt House Hotel for the Thunder Over Louisville event.
- A tour of the Thunder Over Louisville Command Center.
- $500 in spending money provided by the Kentucky Lottery.
About Thunder Over Louisville
Thunder Over Louisville is renowned as the annual kickoff event of the Kentucky Derby Festival, showcasing breathtaking air shows and the largest fireworks display in North America. Scheduled for April 18, 2026, this thrilling event takes place along the Ohio River in Louisville, Kentucky. The Thundernator plays a pivotal role by initiating the fireworks, symbolizing the start of the festivities and cementing their place in our local heritage.
Additional Information
For more details regarding the entry process and official rules, interested individuals can visit the Kentucky Lottery website. Participation is open to all Kentucky Lottery players meeting the eligibility requirements. This initiative is a fantastic way to engage in one of the state’s hallmark events and adds to the excitement whether you call Louisville home or are just visiting.
FAQ
How can I enter the contest to become the Thundernator?
To participate, purchase any Kentucky Lottery Pick 3 or Pick 4 ticket valued at $5 or more. Entries are accepted from January 8 through February 5, 2026. After purchasing, register for a Fan Club account on the Kentucky Lottery website or app, and submit your eligible tickets for a chance to win. The drawing will take place on or about February 9, 2026.
What is the prize package for the winner?
The winner will be named the Thundernator and will receive:
- A ticket package including four tickets each to the Shepherd Insurance Great Steamboat Race, Kentuckiana Honda Dealers Festival Day at the Downs, Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport Thunder Over Louisville VIP Rooftop Party, Republic Bank BourbonVille (must be 21+), and the Zoeller Pump Company Pegasus Parade.
- A certificate for a private tour of Kern’s Kitchen DERBY-PIE® factory.
- A certificate for a Kentucky Derby Museum tour.
- Official 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival merchandise.
- Overnight accommodations at The Galt House Hotel for Thunder Over Louisville on April 18, 2026.
- A tour of the Thunder Over Louisville Command Center.
- $500 in spending money from the Kentucky Lottery.
What is Thunder Over Louisville?
Thunder Over Louisville is the annual kickoff event of the Kentucky Derby Festival, featuring an air show and the largest fireworks display in North America. The 2026 event is scheduled for April 18, 2026, along the Ohio River in Louisville, Kentucky. The Thundernator traditionally presses the button to start the fireworks, marking the official beginning of the festivities. This role is a highlight of the Kentucky Derby Festival, offering a unique experience to the winner.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Thunder Over Louisville 2026 |
| Date | April 18, 2026 |
| Location | Ohio River, Louisville, Kentucky |
| Entry Period | January 8 – February 5, 2026 |
| Drawing Date | On or about February 9, 2026 |
| Prize Package Value | Approximately $5,910 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
