As May unfolds, Louisville offers a plethora of events catering to diverse interests. Here’s a curated list of upcoming happenings to mark on your calendar:
Kentucky Derby Festivities
Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront
Dates: April 23 – May 1, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Daily); 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Sunday)
Location: TurfMutt Great Lawn, 231 E. Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
Experience the ultimate entertainment with concerts, family fun, food, and more. Admission is free with a 2026 Pegasus Pin. More details.
Kentucky Oaks
Date: May 1, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM ET
Location: Churchill Downs
For the first time, the Kentucky Oaks will be held in primetime, showcasing top 3-year-old fillies. Tune in on NBC or stream on Peacock. Read more.
Kentucky Derby
Date: May 2, 2026
Time: 6:57 PM ET
Location: Churchill Downs
Join the excitement of the 152nd Kentucky Derby, known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.” Coverage begins at 2:30 PM ET on NBC. Learn more.
Louisville Zoo Events
Early Childhood Pop-Up: Little Critters
Date: May 6, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Louisville Zoo
Engage young learners with activities focused on the impact of plastic waste on animals and humans. Details here.
Trivia Night – Revenge of the Sixth
Date: May 6, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Louisville Zoo
Test your Star Wars knowledge in this galactic trivia challenge. Assemble your team of Jedi masters and reserve your spot early. More info.
Throo the Zoo 5K Run/Walk 2026
Date: May 9, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM
Location: Louisville Zoo
Participate in the wildest 5K in town, running directly through the Zoo. Registration includes a t-shirt, finisher’s medal, and a Zoo ticket. Register here.
Concerts and Performances
The Black Keys
Date: May 3, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Louisville Palace
Enjoy an evening with the acclaimed rock duo. Tickets and info.
Buckethead
Date: May 3, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Mercury Ballroom
Experience the unique guitar stylings of Buckethead live. More details.
Hairspray
Dates: May 5 – May 24, 2026
Time: Various showtimes
Location: Derby Dinner Playhouse, Clarksville
Catch the beloved musical “Hairspray” during its run at the Derby Dinner Playhouse. Showtimes and tickets.
Special Events
Night at the Frazier
Date: May 15, 2026
Location: Frazier Kentucky History Museum
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an evening of curated food, cocktails, live entertainment, and immersive gallery experiences. Event details.
With such a diverse lineup of events, Louisville promises an engaging and memorable May for residents and visitors alike.