Top 10 July Events

Fun things to do, in and around Louisville, KY

By Mali Anderson

Updated 07/24/17

With free outdoor concerts, Forecastle, and Shakespeare in the Park, there is no shortage of things in July 2014. And, of course, we have America's favorite holiday: July Fourth! Below are my top 10 favorite July activities, some free, some with an admission fee, all listed in chronological order.

  • 01 of 09

    Enjoy a Drive-In Movie

    Drive-In.jpg
    ••• Photo: The Image Bank/Getty Images

    Where: Georgetown Drive-In
    When: Throughout summer
    The Georgetown Drive-In is now projecting digital! A classic spot for family fun.

    Looking to see a film outdoors for free...

  • 02 of 09

    Shakespeare in the Park

    Shakespeare in the Park
    ••• Enjoy this FREE outdoor festival. The longest running in the USA. Image courtesy of Kentucky Shakespeare

    Where: Central Park
    When: Through July 26
    Here's the schedule: 2015 Summer Season

  • 03 of 09

    Happy 4th of July!

    ••• Photo: Jeff Hunter/Getty Images

    Where: Throughout the USA
    When: July 4
    Happy Independence Day! Check out the About.com Louisville guide to find places to celebrate. Or if you are staying close to home, check out these guides:

  • 04 of 09

    The July Flea Off Market

    Flea Off Market
    ••• Good food, fabulous bands, and shopping. What's not to love?. Image © Mali Anderson

    Where: Flea Off Market
    When the weather is nice, there are few outings that could top a trip to Flea Off Market. Live music, friendly people, tasty food and drinks, shopping, and more. Check it out, you'll be happy you did.

    Continue to 5 of 9 below.
  • 05 of 09

    Lebowski Fest

    Where: Various locations in Louisville
    When: July 10-11
    The dude abides at Louisville's annual Lebowski Fest. Fans of the famous Coen brothers movie can go bowling, see bands, answer trivia, and, of course, watch a screening of The Big Lebowski. Ticket prices vary.

  • 06 of 09

    Bastille Day!

    Where: Everywhere
    When: July 14
    La Fête Nationale (French National Day) is commonly known in the USA as Bastille Day. July 14 marks the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille in Paris, an event that launched the French Revolution. To acknowledge the day—after all, we live in Louisville, a city named after King Louis XVI of France—visit a local restaurant. The Bristol Bar and Grille, for example, will be featuring French food and wine throughout July.

  • 07 of 09

    Fifth Harmony's Reflection: The Summer Tour

    LouisvillePalace.jpg
    ••• The Louisville Palace. Image © Mali Anderson

    Where: The Louisville Palace
    When: July 15
    Concerts are always fun in the fancy surroundings of The Louisville Palace.

  • 08 of 09

    Forecastle Music Festival

    Where: Riverfront
    When: July 17-19
    Although Forecastle began as a one-day music festival featuring local musicians, the event has grown into a multi-day extravaganza of music, art and activism. With famous acts filling the lineup, Forecastle is now a draw for visitors from around the nation.

    Continue to 9 of 9 below.
  • 09 of 09

    Celebrate the Sweet Life

    Where: Mellwood Arts Center
    When: Late July
    The American Cancer Society is hosting this annual dessert tasting. The evening includes assorted desserts from community vendors including caterers, restaurants, bakeries and novelty shops. Dancing, music, a silent auction and much sought after “sweet boxes” containing mystery items and gift certificates will take place to guarantee a night truly celebrating the sweet life. Funds raised will support the fight against breast cancer.