4th Of July Kentucky: Independence Day Events and Things to Do in KY

  • 12 minute read
4th of July Kentucky
4th of July Kentucky
  • June 25, 2023

July 4th Events in Kentucky

Get ready to light up the sky and celebrate the 4th of July in Kentucky! We’ve got the scoop on the best Independence Day events happening across the state. So grab your patriotic 4th of July gear and get ready for a day of family, friends, and of course, fireworks in Kentucky!

But wait, there’s more! We’ll keep updating this post with even more 4th of July events as we hear about them. And if you know of an event that we missed, shoot us an email and let us know any Fourth of July Kentucky events we’ve missed.

Jump to City
  1. Louisville July 4th Events
  2. Lexington July 4th Events
  3. Bowling Green July 4th Events
  4. Northern Kentucky July 4th Events
  5. Other Kentucky 4th of July Events
  6. Shop Our Gear
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Louisville July 4th Events

Looking for fireworks, events, and concerts in the Louisville area? We’ve got you covered. Here’s what’s happening over the July 4th holiday. Check out this list of activities happening from June 30 – July 4. Mark your calendars and make the most of your summer in Louisville. These events are sure to make your days and nights unforgettable! Please note, they are sorted by date.

Bullitt Blast & Shepherdsville City Fair:

Join the carnival rides, games, car show, and live entertainment at the Bullitt County Fairgrounds. Don’t forget to indulge in delicious food and refreshing drinks. Plus, there’s a watermelon eating contest and fireworks to end the night! Admission is free, so bring your friends and family for a blast.

Red, White & Boombox:

Celebrate Independence Day at Fourth Street Live! with a picnic-style seating, games, cold beer, cocktails, and mouthwatering food from various venues. DJ Miles will be spinning tunes all night long. Upgrade to the all-inclusive drink package for an unforgettable experience. Must be 21 and older to attend.

  • WHERE: 411 S. Fourth St., Louisville, KY
  • WHEN: July 1, 3 p.m. Doors open at 2 p.m.
  • MORE INFORMATION: Free. Ages 21 and older. 4thstlive.com
Louisville Chorus:

Fanfare for the 4th: Immerse yourself in the musical visions of America at Beargrass Christian Church. The Louisville Chorus, conducted by Daniel Spurlock, will take you on a journey through the history of our great nation with a captivating multimedia choral cinema presentation. This is a Cultural Pass event, so bring your pass for free admission!

  • WHERE: Beargrass Christian Church, 4100 Shelbyville Road
  • WHEN: July 1, 3 p.m.
  • MORE INFORMATION: louisvillechorus.org
Louisville Bats July 4 Fireworks Extravaganza:

Catch a Louisville Bats baseball game against the Indianapolis Indians and stick around for a spectacular fireworks show. Enjoy $6 margaritas on June 30 and get a free pair of sunglasses on July 1. It’s a home run of a night!

  • WHERE: Louisville Slugger Field, 401 E. Main St.
  • WHEN: June 30 and July 1, 7:15 p.m.
  • MORE INFORMATION: milb.com/louisville
Riverview Independence Festival:

Head over to Riverview Park for an evening filled with delicious food, live music, and a splash park. Country Wide, Sheryl Rouse Band, and Acorde will keep you entertained throughout the night. Stick around for the breathtaking fireworks display at 10 p.m.

Belle of Louisville Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise:

Relax and enjoy the fireworks from the comfort of the iconic Belle of Louisville. Take a sunset cruise along the river as you marvel at the spectacular display. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day!

  • WHERE: Fourth and River Road
  • WHEN: July 3-4. Board at 7:30 p.m.; cruise 8:30-10:30 p.m.
  • MORE INFORMATION: belleoflouisville.org
Crescent Hill 4th of July Festival:

Don’t miss out on this amazing festival at Peterson-Dumesnil House. Explore the juried art show, indulge in delicious food from food trucks and craft beer vendors, and let the kids have a blast in the inflatable zone. There’s also a silent auction, pet contest, cake wheel, and military vehicles on display. The grand finale is a fireworks show accompanied by live music. Best of all, it’s free!

  • WHERE: Peterson-Dumesnil House, 301 S. Peterson Ave.
  • WHEN: July 4, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • MORE INFORMATION: Free. crescenthill.us
Summer on the Farm at Historic Locust Grove:

Step back in time and experience a 19th-century celebration. Explore the historic house, listen to readings of the Declaration of Independence, and witness engaging portrayals by first-person interpreters. Just watch out for damp powder! Sponsored by Independence Bank.

  • WHERE: 561 Blankenbaker Lane
  • WHEN: July 4, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • MORE INFORMATION: Free. locustgrove.org
Jeffersonville 4th of July Parade:

Join the Freedom Parade in Jeffersonville, Indiana, and honor our veterans. Wave your American flags and enjoy the festivities along Spring Street. After the parade, head to Warder Park for even more celebration!

  • WHERE: Along Spring Street from 100 to 500 blocks of Spring St., Jeffersonville, Indiana.
  • WHEN: July 4, 10 a.m. to noon
  • MORE INFORMATION: jeffmainstreet.org
Paristown Fourth of July Celebration:

Indulge in an outdoor artisan market and satisfy your sweet tooth with Jeff’s Donuts’ inaugural Donut Eating Contest. Get ready to groove to music by the Crashers and be dazzled by a spectacular fireworks show sponsored by Jack Daniels. Plus, the Kroger Fresh Express offers free train rides with a canned food donation for a great cause.

  • WHERE: Christy’s Garden, Paristown Arts & Entertainment District, 720 Brent St.
  • WHEN: July 4. Market is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (on Brent Street.). Concert and fireworks: gates open at 5 p.m.; The Crashers, 6:30 p.m.; fireworks, 9:45 p.m.
  • MORE INFORMATION: paristown.com
The Boom in Simpsonsville:

Don’t miss the fireworks show at the Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass. Before the main event, enjoy shopping, tasty treats, and live music. Bring a blanket or chair and find the perfect spot to watch the show.

  • WHERE: Pre-show activities at the Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass, 1155 Buck Creek Road, Simpsonville. Watch the fireworks show at the Corner of Buck Creek road and US 60.
  • WHEN: July 4, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fireworks (10 p.m.)
  • MORE INFORMATION: Free. simpsonvilleparks.com
St. Matthews Independence Day 5K:

Lace up your running shoes and join the River City Races Run the 502 series. Dress up in your favorite patriotic costume and compete for awards. Walkers and virtual runners are welcome too. Plus, your participation supports St. Matthews Area Ministries and the “Love 40207” program.

July 4 Freedom Celebration at Wendell Moore Park:

End your day with a stunning fireworks display over the lake. Bring your chairs and blankets, sit back, and enjoy the show.

Waterfront Park 4th of July:

It’s time for the ultimate celebration at Waterfront Park. Enjoy live music by the Louisville Orchestra, indulge in delicious food from food trucks, and partake in family-friendly activities. The night will culminate in a breathtaking fireworks display presented by the Marshall Family.

Get ready to make unforgettable memories this Independence Day in the Louisville area. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a fitness enthusiast, there’s a 4th of July Kentucky event for you. Don’t miss out on the fun – mark your calendars for these exciting celebrations!

SEE ALSO: Best Kentucky Gifts, Souvenirs, Apparel, Gear

LexingtonJuly 4th Events

In Central Kentucky, Lexington hosts some of the most popular July 4th events. Fireworks, music, and food galore! Fourth of July Lexington events are heating up in the Bluegrass region as we highlight some classic events and introduce some exciting new additions. Get ready for an unforgettable 4th of July in Lexington, KY.

Red, White & Blues
  • WHERE: Moondance Amphitheater, 1152 Monarch St. 5:30 – 9 p.m.
  • WHEN: Saturday, July 1
  • MORE INFO: Willie Eames @ 5:30 p.m. | Tee Dee Young @ 7 p.m.
Ice Cream Social
  • WHERE: Henry A. Tandy Centennial Park, 251 W. Main St. 2 – 4 p.m.
  • WHEN: Sunday, July 2
  • MORE INFO: 
Bluegrass 10,000 and Fun Run
  • WHERE: Corner of Main St. and N. Limestone St.
  • WHEN: Tuesday, July 4
  • MORE INFO: BG10K: 7:25 a.m. / Fun Run: 8:30 a.m.
Fourth of July Festival & Market
  • WHERE: Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza, 120 N. Limestone St. and 5/3 Pavilion at Henry A Tandy Centennial Park
  • WHEN: Tuesday, July 4
  • MORE INFO: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Fourth of July Parade
  • WHERE: Main St. (Downtown)
  • WHEN: Tuesday, July 4
  • MORE INFO: 12 p.m.
Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular
  • WHERE: Launched from the R. J. Corman rail yard near Main St and Oliver Lewis Way
  • WHEN: Tuesday, July 4
  • MORE INFO: 10 p.m.

SEE ALSO: Kentucky Concerts and Events Calendar

Bowling GreenJuly 4th Events

South Central Kentucky also offers plenty of ways to celebrate 4th of July in Bowling Green and surrounding areas. We highlight the top things to do below.

Cave City Community Fireworks
  • WHERE: Cave Area Conference Center – 502 Mammoth Cave St, Cave City, KY 42127
  • WHEN: July 3, at 9 p.m.
Fireworks at Bowling Green Hot Rods
Barren River Lake Fireworks
Thunderfest Fireworks
  • WHERE: National Corvette Museum
  • WHEN: July 1

Northern KentuckyJuly 4th Events

The area south of Cincinnati is home to several things to do on July 4th in Northern Kentucky. Ready to make some memories this holiday weekend? We’ve made a list of Fourth of July celebrations happening all over NKY. Time to kick back, relax, and enjoy the festivities.

City of Florence Independence Day July 3 Event
  • WHERE: Florence Government Center, 8100 Ewing Blvd., Florence, KY
  • WHEN: Jul 3, 2023
  • MORE INFO: www.florence-ky.gov 
Covington’s 4th of July Festival at Sisters of Notre Dame

Other Kentucky 4th of July Events

Kentucky State Parks are going all out this year with Fourth of July festivities. You can enjoy fireworks, entertainment, and more at various parks. Check out the events below or head to our online calendar for even more options.

Carter Caves State Resort Park Wild Caving Adventure 2023

Get ready for some wild adventures at Carter Caves State Resort Park! Join for the Wild Caving Adventure Series and experience the thrill of exploring the depths of our extensive cave system. Dusty crawling and walking passageways await you, but beware, the dust will be flying! If you have breathing problems, this may not be the trip for you. Highlights include the famous Bills Crawl, a 100 ft. belly crawl using only your elbows and toes. But first, you’ll have to conquer a 300 ft. climb up a steep 30 degree banking to reach the cave entrance. So make sure you’re in good health and have past caving experience before you sign up. These caves have a rich history, including their time as a commercial cave over a century ago. Explore 20 miles of car travel round trip on private property with our exclusive permission. They provide all the necessary equipment, including coveralls, helmets, lights, and pads.

Fourth of July Weekend at Fort Boonesborough State Park

Get ready to celebrate the Fourth of July weekend in style at Fort Boonesborough State Park! If you’re a registered camper, get excited for a jam-packed weekend of patriotic fun. They’ve got a camper decoration contest, crafts, free tours, hayrides, a parade, and so much more. This event is exclusively for registered campers, so make sure to reserve your spot!

Summer Concert Series

Are you ready for a toe-tapping good time at Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park? Don’t miss their Summer Concert Series, featuring an amazing lineup of Universal Americana musicians. Enjoy a delicious meal with a million dollar view as you take in the sounds of these talented artists.

Paint the Park 5k

Get ready to paint the park at Kingdom Come State Park with their exciting 5k event! Join us for some “Fun on the Run” at Kentucky’s highest elevation state park. Participants will make laps equivalent to a 5k through the park’s shelter loop. But be prepared to get doused with colored powder as you run or walk through the park! Registration begins at 9 a.m. at the park gift shop, and the run starts at 10 a.m. Pre-register before June 23 to guarantee a free event t-shirt.

Home Coming: 100 Years of Coming Home

Celebrate 100 years of My Old Kentucky Home State Park at our Home Coming event! Join for a spectacular day filled with family fun, live music, and fireworks. The day kicks off with the Wilson & Muir Bank & Trust Kids Activity Zone, where your little ones can enjoy games and entertainment like face painting and inflatable bounce houses. Explore local vendor booths showcasing unique products and services, and grab a delicious bite from the fantastic food truck vendors. Stay hydrated with a refreshing selection of alcoholic drinks for sale as you enjoy the beautiful park surroundings. The Swope Family of Dealerships LIVE stage is where it’s at, featuring captivating performances by local artists Zachary Mosgrove and Rob Unseld. These talented musicians will mesmerize you under the picturesque rotunda. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable day of celebration, entertainment, and community spirit. Mark your calendars for July 1, 2023, and we can’t wait to see you at My Old Kentucky Home State Park! For an extra special experience, treat yourself to The Stephen Foster Story, the official outdoor musical of Kentucky. Enjoy premium seating, exclusive amenities, and a front-row view of the stage where actors, singers, and dancers will bring the story to life.

Picnic in the Park

Party in the Park! Old Fort Harrod State Park invites you to a picnic under the legendary “Big Ole’ Tree”. Grab your lunch, bring a lawn chair, and get ready for FREE live entertainment. Each week, a different local or regional act takes the stage on the front lawn. This Harrodsburg tradition has been going strong since 1985. Don’t miss out!

Pennyrile Forest: Independence Beach Blast

Get ready for beachy fun at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park’s Independence Beach Blast! Join in the Independence Day celebration with a full day of family-friendly activities at the beach. Rent a boat, create your own tie-dye shirt, and soak up the sun on the sand. It’s going to be a blast!

Linda Smith Band entertains Concert in the Park

Kick off your 4th of July weekend at Rough River Dam State Resort Park with a concert by the Linda Smith Band. Head to the patio facing Rough River Lake and groove to the music. This is the perfect way to start the weekend of fun with your family. And the best part? It’s free!

RUMBLE OVER ROUGH! Hosted by Friends of Rough River

Get ready for a rumble at Rough River Dam State Resort Park’s RUMBLE OVER ROUGH! Hosted by Friends of Rough River, this annual fireworks extravaganza is not to be missed. Spend the day at the park, enjoy picnics and games, and get ready for a phenomenal firework display. The NITE SHIFT concert by the pavilion area is the perfect prelude to the dazzling show. Remember to bring trash bags and leave the area clean before you go. Best of all, this event is FREE for everyone!

SEE ALSO: Kentucky Lakes: Every Lake in the State

When you spend the 4th of July in Kentucky, get ready for a jam-packed day of fun. From fireworks on the lake to live music, kayaking, and flea markets, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in a big city like Louisville or a small town like Cadiz, you’re in for an unforgettable day or entire weekend rather. Don’t forget to book your vacation rental or Kentucky Airbnb before it’s too late and celebrate like it’s 1776!

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