We affectionately observe Kentucky Derby Festival season as its own holiday here in the 502, and the entire month of April serves as the pregame for the big race on Sat., May 7.

We’ve got a Derby-themed art show in Paristown, the first-ever Athlete’s Derby Gala + Thunder Over Louisville, of course. But don’t worry — we like to keep a well-rounded events calendar around here, so if Derby events aren’t your thing, we’ve got more for you to look forward to like Chelsea Handler coming to the Louisville Palace on Thurs., April 21 + the Cherokee Triangle Art Fair on Sat., April 30.

Friday, April 1-Sunday, April 3

Friday, April 1

Joe Gatto | Fri., April 1- Sun., April 3 | 7 p.m. + 10 p.m. | Louisville Comedy Club | $40+ | See the former Impractical Joker + television personality perform stand up. 🎙️
Baby Shark Live! 2022 Splash Tour | Fri., April 1 | 6 p.m. | The Louisville Palace | $28+ | Have a fun night out with the kids as Baby Shark meets up with his friends + will perform some hit songs. 🐬
Playcosystem Happy Hour | Fri., April 1 | 6-8 p.m. | Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest | Free | Unwind and play on the playground with drinks from Mile Wide Beer Co., Forest Edge Winery + food from Juanito’s Street Tacos at this adults-only gathering. 🍻
Love, Loss and What I Wore | Fri., April 1 | 7 p.m. | The Woman’s Club of Louisville, 1320 S. 4th St. | $40 | See this production based on Ilene Beckerman’s 1995 book of the same name as women recollect powerful moments in their lives. 🎭
Henry VI: The Wars of the Roses | Fri., April 1 | 7:30 p.m. | Kentucky Shakespeare Headquarters, 616 Myrtle St. | $20 | Catch this Kentucky Shakespeare production Wednesday through Sunday until April 16. 🎭
Step-by-Step Paint Class: Birds Four | Fri., April 1 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Learn how to paint pretty birds at this step-by-step paint class + drinks will be available for purchase. 🎨

Saturday, April 2

Louisville Triple Crown of Running 15K | Sat., April 2 | 7:30 a.m. | 222 E. Witherspoon St. | $79 | Complete your crown of races with the final nine-mile run. 🏃
Free Tree Giveaway | Sat., April 2 | 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Louisville Zoo, 1100 Trevilian Way | Free | Get a 350 one-gallon tree while supplies last; species include redbud, serviceberry, multiple varieties of oak tree + shellbark hickory. 🌳
Spring Break Harbor History Cruise | Sat., April 2 | 2-3 p.m. | Belle of Louisville Riverboats | $10 | All aboard the Mary M. Miller for this informational cruise about the founding of Louisville. 🛥️
Introduction to Home Gardening Workshop | Sat., April 2 | 3-5 p.m. | HoneyBear Farms, 14005 Taylorsville Rd. | $25 | Learn the basics of planting from Uproot Blooms farmer and gardener Amanda Sattler + leave with a seed starting kit and local planting calendar. 🌱
Touring Pegasus Parade | Sat., April 2 | Time TBA | Multiple locations | Free | Catch this traveling version of the Pegasus Parade as it wheels through your neighborhood. 🐎
Snow Owl Paint Class | Sat., April 2 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Sip on a beverage + learn how to paint a snow owl. 🎨

Sunday, April 3

Spring Floral Watercolor Workshop with Hanna Barnhart | Sun., April 3 | 4-6 p.m. | The Craftery, 823 E. Market St. | $60 | Learn how to mix colors, paint petals + render spring flowers with Hanna Barnhart of Owen & Mae. 🌸
Brunch (& Bark) By The Bridge | Sun., April 3 | 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Waterfront Park | Free | Bring your dog and enjoy food trucks, drink specials, and live jazz + a portion of proceeds will benefit the Kentucky Humane Society.
Sunday Brandy Brunch | Sundays | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Copper & Kings Rooftop Bar & Restaurant | Prices vary | Sip brandy cocktails and nosh on a selection of sandwiches served with spicy Spanish potatoes. 🍸
Art at the Falls | Sun., April 3 | 3-4 p.m. | Falls of the Ohio State Park, 201 W. Riverside Dr., Clarksville, IN | $2 | Bring an unopened bar soap — as long as it’s not white — and naturalist + artist Mike Gibson will show you how to carve a fossil.
Alton Brown LIVE: Beyond The Eats | Sun., April 3 | 6:30 p.m. | Kentucky Center, 501 W. Main St. | $29.25+ | See the creator and host of the Food Network’s show “Good Eats,” in this two-hour variety show. 🍳
Orange Bouquet Paint Class | Sun., April 3 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Make this a paint + sip night while you learn how to create a beautiful orange bouquet. 💐
Art at the Falls | Sun., April 3 | 3-4 p.m. | Falls of the Ohio State Park, 201 W. Riverside Dr., Clarksville, IN | $2 | Bring an unopened, colored bar of soap, and naturalist + artist Mike Gibson will show you how to carve a fossil.

Monday, April 4-Sunday, April 10

Monday, April 4

Sweet Breads ~Coffee Cake, Scones, & Cinnamon Rolls cooking class | Mon., April 4 | 6:30-9 p.m. | Cooking at the Cottage, 3739 Lexington Rd. | $55 | Learn how to bake these sweet treats like cinnamon chip coffee cake. 🍰
Louisville Taco Week | Mon., April 4-Sun., April 10 | Times vary | Multiple locations | Prices vary | Sample tacos from nine local eateries + keep track of your food findings on a new Louisville Taco Week app. 🌮
Sea Turtle Paint Class | Mon., April 4 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Learn how to paint a majestic sea turtle at this step-by-step paint class. 🐢

Tuesday, April 5

Louisville Bats vs St. Paul Saints | Tues., April 5 | 6:35 p.m. | Louisville Slugger Field | $9+ | The Bats are back for an opening night game against the Saints. ⚾
Trail Tuesday @ Falls City Brewing Co. | Tues., April 5 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Falls City Brewing Co., 901 E. Liberty St. | Free | Gather with other beer lovers to relish in the brews of Falls City. 🍻
Soccer Mommy | Tues., April 5 | 8 p.m. | Headliners Music Hall | $22+ | Vibe to this indie rocker with support from Peel Dream Magazine. 🎸
Conjure: Art and the Black Supernatural | Tues., April 5 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Speed Art Museum | Learn from Professor Bridget Cooks’ presentation on recent exhibitions — Supernatural America: The Paranormal in American Art + Sanford Biggers: Codeswitch — and their connection to the expression of faith and the supernatural. 👻
Tulip Wreath Paint Class | Tues., April 5 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Make a beautiful tulip wreath painting to hang in your house at the step-by-step paint class. 🌷

Wednesday, April 6

Saturday Night Fever | Wed., April 6 | 1 p.m. | Derby Dinner Playhouse, 525 Marriott Dr., Clarksville, IN | Strap on those platform shoes for the musical adaptation of the 70s film running through Sun., May 22. 🕺
91.9 WFPK Presents: Black Opry Revue | Wed., April 6 | 8 p.m. | Headliners Music Hall | $20+ | See this showcase of Black country + folk singers with with Roberta Lea, Tylar Bryant, and The Kentucky Gentlemen. 🎸
Colorful Thistle Paint Class | Wed., April 6 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Learn how to paint like Van Gogh in this step-by-step paint class + create a beautiful painting of a thistle to take home. 🌾

Thursday, April 7

Old Fashioned Bourbon Dinner by Swizzle Dinner & Drinks | Thurs., April 7 | 7-9 p.m. | Swizzle Dinner & Drinks, 140 N Fourth St.| $120 | Sip on four different styles of Old Fashioned drinks + a five-course meal.
Castle & Key Tasting | Thurs., April 7 | 4 p.m. | Westport Whiskey & Wine | $10 | Sample Castle & Key’s newly-released small-batch bourbon — it’s the distillery’s first proprietary release from the historic Old Taylor Distillery in 50 years. 🥃
Beach at Night Paint Class | Thurs., April 7 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Learn how to paint a beach landscape at night in this paint class + take your beautiful creation home after. 🖌️

Friday, April 8

Drag Race: Bosco | Fri., April 8 | 8 p.m.-3 a.m. | Play Louisville, 1101 E. Washington St. | $22 | See the Demon Queen of Seattle + star of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 14 grace the Ville.
Todrick Hall | Fri., April 8 | 8 p.m. | The Mercury Ballroom | $29.50+ | See this multi-talented performer who has appeared on American Idol, RuPaul’s Drag Race, and The Greatest Dancer on BBC. 🎶
FamFest | Fri., April 8 | 4-8 p.m. | Downtown New Albany | Free | Bounce on inflatables, put some mini-golf, participate in bed races + get your face painted at this event where the first 1,000 people get a custom event pin.
Colorful Horse Paint Class | Fri., April 8 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Create a stunning horse painting in time to hang it up at home for Derby + drinks will be available for purchase. 🐎

Saturday, April 9

Board and You Bistro & Wine Bar: Drag Brunch | Sat., April 9 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | 434 Pearl St., New Albany, IN | $20 | Watch these queens slay while you sip mimosas + nosh on exquisite breakfast food.
Derby Paint & Sip Class | Sat., April 9 | 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Work the Metal, 1201 Story Ave. | $62 | Paint the historical Churchill Downs with a twist of your own + get two complimentary cocktails.
The Fillies Derby Ball | Sat., April 9 | 6 p.m. | The Galt House Hotel | $250+ | This black-tie event is where the royal court will be crowned along with dinner, drinks + dancing. 👑
Bacchanal: Patio Kick Off Party | Sat., April 9 | 1-11 p.m. | Nouvelle Bar & Bottle | Free to attend | Celebrate the start of outdoor seating season with live music, 10% off bottles + a special event menu. 🍷
Drag Race: Shangela | Sat., April 9 | 8 p.m.-3 a.m. | Play Louisville, 1101 E. Washington St. | $22 | Halleloo — See this Drag Race legend and host of HBO Max’s, “We’re Here,” perform her drag routine.
Lucky Daye | Sat., April 9 | 8 p.m. | The Mercury Ballroom | $98 | Hear the R&B artist perform tracks off his new release, “CANDYDRIP.” 🍭
Louisville Bee School - Spring Workshop | Sat., April 9 | 9 a.m. | Cedar Ridge Camp, 4010 Old Routt Rd. | $45 | Get a full day of hands-on instruction on all things beekeeping in this KSBA + KY Certified Honey program. 🐝
Restore: A Wellness Weekend | Sat., April 9-Sun., April 10 | Bernheim Research Forest & Arboretum | Prices vary | Drop in on your choice of any 10 programs designed to celebrate self-care + the healing powers of nature. 🧘
Adult Workshop: Reimaged Reflections | Sat., April 9 | 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Speed Art Museum | Free | Create a sculpture using household items and recycled materials led by local artist Sara Noori + inspired by current exhibition, Sanford Biggers: Codeswitch. 🖼️
Couples Painting Class | Sat., April 9 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | This couples paint class will have couples working together as both of their canvases will make one larger image when put side-by-side. 🎨
Republic Bank Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt | Sat., April 9 | 6-9 p.m. | Vissing Park, 2728 Vissing Park Rd., Jeffersonville, IN | Free | Food will be available for purchase, the Easter Bunny in attendance + put your Easter egg hunting skills to the test. 🐰

Sunday, April 10

South Louisville Art Crawl | Sun., April 10 | 2 p.m. | Iroquois Park, 1080 Amphitheater Rd. | Free | Catch the trolley at Iroquois Park + explore the art scenes that South Louisville has to offer. 🎨
Daisies Painting Class | Sun., April 10 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Paint like Monet at the step-by-step paint class + take home your portrait of daisies after the class is over. 🌼

Monday, April 11-Sunday, April 17

Monday, April 11

Plant Swap | Mon., April 11 | 6:30-10 p.m. | Hi-Wire Brewing, 642 Baxter Ave. | Free to attend | Get together with other plant parents and swap tips and tricks, trade tools and planter + dish on local plant deals. 🪴
91.9 WFPK Presents: Heartless Bastards with Lilly Hiatt | Mon., April 11 | 7 p.m. | Headliners Music Hall | $20+ | See this Cincinnati-based rock band team up with a country-folk opener. 🎸
Fireworks Painting Class | Mon., April 11 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Create your own painting of Thunder + hang it up at home in time to watch the real fireworks. 🎆

Tuesday, April 12

91.9 WFPK Presents Penny & Sparrow with Lera Lynn | Tues., April 12 | 8 p.m. | Headliners Music Hall | $20+ | Check out this folk band + upgrade your experience with VIP tickets for $79. 🪕
Hummingbird Painting Class | Tues., April 12 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Learn how to paint a stunning hummingbird painting in this step-by-step class. 🎨
Lux Row Distillers Presentation and Tasting | Tues., April 12 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Joe’s Older Than Dirt | $45 | Get a taste of Ezra Brooks at this presentation.

Wednesday, April 13

A Tour of Italy ~ Liguria Cooking class | Wed., April 13 | 6:30-9 p.m. | Cooking at the Cottage, 3739 Lexington Rd. | $65 | Explore this little region of Italy and learn how to make Pizza Dolce – a rum and orange water baked sweet pizza dusted with powdered sugar. 🍕
Derby Cocktails with Brown Forman | Wed., April 13 | 4 p.m. | Westport Whiskey & Wine | $10 | Learn the history of three iconic Derby drinks — the Old Forester Mint Julep, Finlandia Lily, and Woodford Reserve Spire + craft your own. 🥃
Henry Rollins: Good to See You 2022 | Wed., April 13 | 8 p.m. | Headliners Music Hall | $30+ | Catch this singer recount his pre-COVID-19 life + upgrade to the meet-and-greet ticket for $155 for access to an intimate, post-show Q&A.
Koi Fish Painting Class | Wed., April 13 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Transform into an artist + learn how to make this peaceful koi fish portrait in this step-by-step painting class. 🐟

Thursday, April 14

Republic Bank Kentucky Derby Festival BourbonVille | Thurs., April 14 | 6-9 p.m. | Frazier History Museum | $50+ | Sample bourbon-inspired cuisine, signature drinks from local distillers, + get a free commemorative glass and swag bag. 🥃
Business Women First | Thurs., April 14 | 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Kentucky International Convention Center | $90+ | Celebrate the accomplishments of women with lunch, an awards ceremony, and a keynote speech from Louisvillian + CEO of Nestlé Purina PetCare, Nina Leigh.
$1 Million Hole-in-One Golf Course Contest | Thurs., April 14-Sun., April 26 | 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m. | Seneca Golf Course Driving Range | $1+ | Compete for $1 million + if you lose the big one, you could still walk away with a first-place prize of $5,000. 🏌️
Barrels & Bourbon | Thurs., April 14 | 4 p.m. | Westport Whiskey & Wine | $10 | Learn from three industry professionals as they discuss how the barrel influences the flavor of the bourbon. 🥃
Flo Milli | Thurs., April 14 | 8 p.m. | Old Forester’s Paristown Hall | TBA | See this new rap star perform her hits like, “In The Party,” and “Beef FloMix.” 🎵
Fascinator Affair 2022 | Thurs., 14 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Graeser Family Education Center, 1435 Frankfort Ave. | $75 | Let emcee Shannon Cogan guide you through a show featuring designs by Apero Seasons + lunch from Wiltshire Pantry. 👒
Paint Your Pet Night | Thurs., April 14 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Transform into Picasso for this advanced painting class + paint a portrait of your own pet. 🐾

Friday, April 15

Mike Epps: No Remorse Comedy Tour | Fri., April 15 | 8 p.m. | KFC Yum! Center | $59+ | Mike Epps is bringing his comedy tour to the Ville, along with some funny friends to perform stand-up like Gary Owen + Sommore.
Drag Race: Daya Betty | Fri., April 15 | 8 p.m.-3 a.m. | Play Louisville, 1101 E. Washington St. | $22 | See this current queen on RuPaul’s Drag Race put on three shows in one evening.
Mini Astrology Fair | Fri., April 15 | 6 p.m. | Rainbow Blossom Natural Food Markets, 3046 Bardstown Rd. | Free to attend | Convene with the Kentucky Astrological Society to discuss the cosmos + socialize. 🌟
After Hours at the Speed | Fri., April 15 | 5-10 p.m. | Speed Art Museum | $14+ | Explore the art museum at night with an eclectic mix of music, cash bar, food by Wiltshire Pantry + performances. 🖼️
Hanging Garden Painting Class | Fri., April 15 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Learn how to paint a zen-filled hanging garden in this painting class plus, you can even make it a paint + sip night as alcohol will be available to purchase. 🌿
ATG Presents: Monk's Road Gin & Juice Party | Fri., April 15 | 6 p.m. | The Whirling Tiger, 1335 Story Ave. | $10 | Throw it back to the 1990s with a live performance by Juice Box Heroes with dry gin candy-themed cocktails curated by Log Still Distilling.

Saturday, April 16

Racing Louisville FC vs. Chicago Red Stars | Sat., April 16 | 7:30 p.m. | Lynn Family Stadium | $14+ | Support the women’s soccer team in the NWSL Challenge Cup as they take on the Chicago Red Stars for their only home game in April. ⚽
Elton John: Farewell to Yellow Brick Road | Sat., April 16 | 8 p.m. | KFC Yum! Center | $144+ | Catch Elton John on his farewell tour that was postponed due to COVID. 🎤
Plants & Prosecco and Moss Wall Art | Sat., April 16 |12-4 p.m. | Bowman Field Lobby, 2815 Taylorsville Rd. | $12 | Unlimited wine, cheese gougères, moss wall art for sale + a portion of proceeds going toward the Kentucky Humane Society. 🪴
Paristown Garden Show | Sat., April 16 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | 720 Brent Street | Free | Enjoy garden decor, flowers, plants, local speakers + a wine garden at this gorgeous garden show. 🌱
Fascinator Workshop & Cocktails | Sat., April 16 | 12-2 p.m. | Work the Metal, 1201 Story Ave. | $69 | Get creative learning make your own fascinator hat in time for Derby + learn how to make the perfect Mint Julep. 👒
TreeFrest 2022 | Sat., April 16 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Joe Creason Park | Free | Celebrate Arbor Day with tree giveaways, tree planting and pruning demonstrations, kid’s tree climbing + food and drinks from local vendors. 🌳
PNC Tour de Lou | Sat., April 16 | 8 a.m. | 301 E. Witherspoon St. | $40+ | Bike The Ville on your choice of route, including a virtual option. 🚲
Spring Street Festival | Sat., April 16 | 2-11 p.m. | The Alcove, 246 Spring St., Jeffersonville, IN | Free | Kick off the weekend before Thunder with live music, local vendors + food.
Frankfort Avenue Easter Parade | Sat., April 16 | 12 p.m. | Frankfort Avenue | Free to attend | Join the British Sports Car Club of Louisville for this parade + bring candy to throw. 🍬
KMAC Couture 2022 | Sat., April 16 | 7 p.m. | KMAC Museum | $125+ | Celebrate the museum’s 10th anniversary at this wearable runway show that supports its programs.
Spring Open House Fun Raiser | Sat., April 16 | Falls City Community Bikeworks, 1217 Logan St. | Suggested $10 donation | Tour Louisville’s community bike shop and enjoy a climbing wall, beer, food trucks, games + live music. 🚲

Sunday, April 17

Boujie Brunch | Sun., April 17 | 1-3 p.m. | The Belle of Louisville Riverboats | $59.99+ | Sip on a complimentary bloody mary or mimosa as you cruise the river + get special access to explore the ship.
Electric Guitar Painting Class | Sat., April 17 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Rock out at this step-by-step painting class + take home the painting after class. 🎸
80s & 90s Rock the Belle Cruise | Sat., April 17 | 6:30-10 p.m. | Belle of Louisville | $40 | Dance the night away listening to oldies on the night cruise. 🚢
Brunchlesque Grotesque: A Horror Theme Burlesque Brunch | Sat., April 17 | Gold Bar Louisville, 1601 Story Ave. | Free to attend | A spooky burlesque show with brunch included by Fright Bites. ☠️

Monday, April 18-Sunday, April 24

Monday, April 18

Mega Laser Zips | Mon., April 18 | Multiple Times | Louisville Mega Cavern | PRICE | Zip through the Mega Cavern while it’s transformed with lasers, music + lights.
Family Paint Night | Mon., April 18 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Bring the kids out for a fun paint night + learn how to paint some funky llamas in this step-by-step paint class. 🦙

Tuesday, April 19

Louisville Bats vs. Iowa Cubs | Tues., April 19 | 6:05 p.m. | Louisville Slugger Field | $9+ | Bingo baseball night with a chance to win prizes + menu items are $1. 🌭
Spring Cocktails with Bardstown Bourbon Company | Tues., April 19 | 7-8 p.m. | Westport Whiskey & Wine | $10
Hibiscus Paint Class | Tues., April 19 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Learn how to paint a pretty tropical hibiscus at this paint class + drinks will be available for purchase. 🌺

Wednesday, April 20

Talk Derby to Me Demonstration Class | Wed., April 20 | 6:30-9 p.m. | Cooking at the Cottage, 3739 Lexington Rd. | $65 | Learn to make hot brown appetizers, a mint julep cheesecake + more at this Derby-themed class. 🍰
Blue Elephant Paint Class | Wed., April 20 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Enjoy a night out at this paint class + learn how to create an eccentric blue elephant painting. 🐘
Stars and Stripes Golf Scramble | Wed., April 20 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Nevel Meade Golf Course, 3123 Nevel Meade Dr. | $250+ | Get a player goodie bag, drink cart + a ticket to the awards lunch.
"A Critical Moment" A Conversation | Wed., Apr. 20 | 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm | Trager Family Jewish Community Center, 3600 Dutchmans Ln, Louisville, KY 40205 | Free, registration requested | Participate in a conversation moderated by Jess Clark and Stephanie Wolf of WFPL.
April Fireside Chat with Deon Stokes | Wed., April 20 | 5:30 p.m. | TEN20 Craft Brewery | Free | Hear from the founder of Joint Effort a Forensic Marketing Agency as she discusses her professional path with Startup Grind Louisville.

Thursday, April 21

Chelsea Handler: Vaccinated and Horny Tour | Thurs., April 21 | 8 p.m. | The Louisville Palace | $49.50+ | Crack up laughing at Chelsea Handler’s stand-up routine. 🎙️
Cactus Paint Class | Thurs., April 21 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Learn how to paint a flowery cactus at this painting class where you can also purchase alcohol making it a paint + sip night. 🌵
The perfect Mint Julep with Peggy Noe Stevens at Rabbit Hole Distillery | Thurs., April 21 | 6:30-8 p.m. | Rabbit Hole Distillery, 711 E. Jefferson St. | $40 | Learn from the world’s first female master bourbon taster on Derby entertaining + crafting the perfect cocktail. 🥃
Comedy Night at Gravely | Thurs., April 21 | 7-9 p.m. | Gravely Brewing Co., 514 Baxter Ave. | Free | Louisville Laughs is organizing this comedy night with host Creig Ewing featuring headliner Mark Viola + Jon Holmes, Nick Noble, Mike Fields, Bonita Elery, and Hillary Boston. 🎤

Friday, April 22

Kentucky Derby Festival They’re Off! Luncheon | Thurs., April 22 | 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | The Galt House Hotel | $85 + | Learn from guest speakers like Erin Andrews, Robin Roberts + Terry Bradshaw over lunch.
Date Night Cooking Class | Fri., April 22 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Cooking at the Cottage, 3739 Lexington Rd. | $120 per couple | This couples’ cooking class is sure to make for a memorable date night as you learn to make maple glazed salmon + strawberry rhubarb on a pirouette cookie. 🍓
Triple Crown Trivia & After Party | Fri., April 22 | 7:15-11:30 p.m. | Mellwood Art Center | $25+ | This fundraiser benefiting children’s summer programs will have trivia, a DJ + dancing. 👑
The Athlete’s Derby Gala | Fri., April 22 | 7 p.m. | Mellwood Art Center | $150+ | Honor the life of Martin Dunbar Jr. with this first-ever gala featuring a multi-course dinner, live music, cash bar, VIP area + the Smokeasy Lounge.
Drag Race: Jorgeous | Fri., April 22 | 8 p.m.-3 a.m. | Play Louisville, 1101 E. Washington St. | $22 | This RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 14 queen + Playmate from Play Nashville is here to put on a show.
Spring into Derby | Fri., April 22-Sun., April 24 | Multiple times | 731 Brent St. | Free to attend | Peruse artworks from local and regional creators, sip cocktails + hear live music in Christy’s Garden.
SocialEyes: A Spring Like This | Fri., April 22 | 6-8 p.m. | Speed Art Museum | $10+ | Check in with yourself and other adults as you create patchwork art based on your own cellphone photos from April 2020.

Saturday, April 23

Thunder Over Louisville | Sat., April 23 | 11:30 a.m. | Waterfront Park | Free to attend | Get your spot along the Ohio River to watch the airshow + fireworks display later in the evening. 🎆
Fun-Der Viewing Party | Sat., April 23 | 2:30-10:30 p.m. | KFC Yum! Center, Spirit Room | $1900 per table of 10 | Watch Thunder Over Louisville with a stunning view in the Yum! 🎆
Fireworks & Flyovers | Sat., April 23 | 3-11:30 p.m. | Joe’s Crab Shack | $250+ | Enjoy a perfect view of Thunder Over Louisville on the water + a prix fixe menu. 🦀
Jewelry-Making Workshop with Lia V. and friends | Sat., April 23 | 1-3 p.m. | HoneyBear Farms, 14005 Taylorsville Rd. | $40 | Learn the ins and outs of jewelry making with a local jeweler + leave with your own handmade jewelry. 💎
Derby Primp & Prep | Sat., April 23 | 3-7 p.m. | Norton Commons | Free | Get unbeatable Derby deals from Norton Commons businesses.
Youth Leadership Summit | Sat., April 23 | 10 a.m. | Virtual | Free | Tune in and broaden the scope of what’s possible for LGBTQ+ students with the Louisville Youth Group + Just Fund KY.

Sunday, April 24

Louisville Bats vs. Iowa Cubs | Sun., April 24 | 1:05 p.m. | Louisville Slugger Field | $9+ | Free kids meal Sunday + kids run the bases too. ⚾
Watercolor Derby Art Workshop with Maizie Clark | Sun., April 24 | 4-6 p.m. | The Craftery, 823 E. Market St. | $45 | Learn from Louisville Illustrator Maizie Clark and create multiple jockey silks + horse blankets in time for Derby. 🐎
Happy Word Paint Class | Sun., April 24 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Make your own sappy quote painting at this step-by-step painting class. 🎨
Craft Show In The Valley | Sun., April 24 | 1-5 p.m. | Valley Hope Center, 10801 Deering Rd. | Free | Shop more than 60 booths from local crafters + makers. 🛍️

Monday, April 25-Saturday, April 30

Monday, April 25

First Saturday in May Cookie Decorating Workshop | Mon., April 25 | 6:30-9 p.m. | Cooking at the Cottage, 3739 Lexington Rd. | $65 | Open to both adults + children, have fun at this workshop learning how to decorate cookies in time for the Derby. 🍪
Romantic Nightscape Paint Class | Mon., April 25 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Make this a date night + enjoy painting a romantic scene with your partner. 💕

Tuesday, April 26

American Red Cross Blood Drive | Tues., April 26 | 11 a.m. | KFC Yum! Center | Free | Get free parking when you donate blood. 🩸
Taste of Derby Festival | Tues., April 26 | 5:30-8 p.m. | Louisville Slugger Field | $90+ | Sample some of LOU’s best dishes from 50+ restaurants while supporting local nonprofit Dare to Care Food Bank. 🍽️
Modest Mouse | Tues., April 26 | 8 p.m. | Iroquois Amphitheater | $39.50+ | “Float On,” down to this rock show with support from The Cribs. 🎸
Three Flowers Painting Class | Tues., April 26 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Learn how to paint a trio of pretty flowers at this step-by-step painting class. 💐
The Farmer & The Foodie Preview: Louisville | Tues., April 26 | 6-8 p.m. | Logan Street Market | Free | Preview the new season of “The Farmer & The Foodie,” with snacks by Black Soil KY + a cash bar provided by Wild Hops. 📺

Wednesday, April 27

Fleur De Lis Painting Class | Wed., April 27 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | What says “I’m a Louisvillian” more than Fleur De Lis? Put your own twist on this Fleur De Lis painting class. ⚜️
Waterfront Wednesday with Nappy Roots | Wed., April 27 | 5 p.m. | Waterfront Park | Free | Kick off the 20th season of this beloved waterfront concert series with Neal Francis, Kiana & the Sun Kings + Nappy Roots. 🎶

Thursday, April 28

Mother’s Day Brunch Cooking Class | Thurs., April 28 | 11:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. | Cooking at the Cottage, 3739 Lexington Rd. | $55 | Beat the weekend brunch rush and treat mom to a fun cooking class with raspberry mimosas + strawberry ricotta bruschetta on the menu. 🍓
Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville | Thurs., April 28-Fri., May 6 | 11 a.m.-11 p.m. | Waterfront Park | Free with Pegasus Pin | Hear live music, have some family fun, eat food + enjoy other KDF events like the Great Balloon Glow and Chow Wagon here. 🎪
Belle of Louisville’s Starry Night Painting Class | Thurs., April 28 | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Channel Van Gogh in this painting class using the Louisville skyline + Belle of Louisville as your Starry Night. 🌀

Friday, April 29

Pasta Dinner & Community Showcase | Fri., April 29 | Time TBA | Springdale Presbyterian Church, 7812 Brownsboro Rd. | Cost TBA | Join the Louisville Youth Group raise funds by eating pasta. 🍝
Neighmaste on the Waterfront | Fri., April 29 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Waterfront Park | Free with Pegasus Pin | Hit your downward-facing pose dog in this outdoor, all-levels yoga class.
BalloonFest: Great Balloon Glow | Fri., April 29 | 8 p.m. | Waterfront Park | Free with Pegasus Pin | See pilots fire their balloons to a musical score against the backdrop of the Ohio River. 🎈
Koi pond Painting Class | Fri., April 29 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | This painting class will teach you how to paint a relaxing koi pond scene. 🐟
Spring Market | Fri., April 29 | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | Westport Village | Free | Shop 10+ local vendors selling food, art + gifts in the green space near Tunie’s at this weekend market. 🛍️

Saturday, April 30

Lou City FC vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds | Sat., April 30 | 7:30 p.m. | Lynn Family Stadium | $17+ | Come cheer on the boys in purple for their only home game in April. ⚽
Children’s Tea with the Kentucky Derby Festival | Sat., April 30 | 12:30-4 p.m. | Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Expo Center | $35 | Join the Derby princesses for a cup of tea at this party + walk the royal runway.
Floral Arrangement Workshop | Sat., April 30 | 1-2:30 p.m. | Work the Metal, 1201 Story Ave. | $79 | Learn all about flowers and how to make a beautiful arrangement + two complimentary cocktails. 🌷
Honey Harvesting & Bottling – Techniques and Equipment Workshop | Sat., April 30 | 1-3 p.m. | HoneyBear Farms, 14005 Taylorsville Rd. | $50 | Learn the sanitation techniques and equipment needed to collect + bottle your own honey. 🍯
BalloonFest: Great Balloon Race | Sat., April 30 | 7 a.m. | Bowman Field | Free to attend | See gigantic hot air balloons race to drop their markers as close as possible to the target — whoever drops theirs closest is the winner. 🎈
GE Appliances Kentucky Derby Festival Mini & Marathon | Sat., April 30-Mon., May 30 | Times vary | Main + Preston St. | $45+ | Do a half or whole marathon with a virtual option available. 🏃
Children’s Tea with the Kentucky Derby Festival Princesses | Sat., April 30 | 1 p.m. | Crowne Plaza Hotel | $35+ | Bring your kiddo aged four and up to meet and greet with the KDF’s princesses + pink lemonade, a royal runway, and each child takes home a goodie bag.
GospelFest | Sat., April 30 | 7-9 p.m. | Waterfront Park | Free with Pegasus Pin | See some of the best gospel choirs in the nation with a lineup including Janessa Graham, Demetrius Gunn, and more. 🎤
Cherokee Triangle Art Fair | Sat., April 30 | 10 a.m. | 1402 Willow Ave. | Free | Shop 200+ artist booths, listen to live music, have food + drinks from local vendors at this multi-day weekend festival. 🎨
An Evening with Lindsey Buckingham | Sat., April 30 | 7:30 p.m. | The Brown Theatre | $40.95+ | Hear this electrifying musician from Fleetwood Mac with the option for a VIP ticket to get a pre-show experience + an exclusive merch bundle.
Horse & Jockey Painting Class | Sat., April 30 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Whet Your Palette, 1415 Evergreen Rd. | $30 | Paint your Derby Horse & Jockey portrait in time for the big race + alcohol will be available for purchase. 🏇
Ken-Ducky Derby | Sat., April 30 | 2 p.m. | Waterfront Park | $5+ | Adopt a rubber duck to race with proceeds supporting Harbor House, a local non-profit organization that supports adults with disabilities. 🦆
Kentuckiana Mid-Century Modern Show | Sat., April 30 | 9 a.m.-6 p.m. | 814 Swan St. | $5 | Purchase top-notch furniture, lighting, art + accent pieces from the Mid-Century Modern period of 1945-1969. 🛋️