The Thunder Over Louisville Airshow And Fireworks

The Thunder Over Louisville Airshow

And Fireworks 

One of the event’s standout attractions is its incredible Airshow. Picture this: fighter jets screeching across the sky, historic WWII bombers majestically gliding overhead, and top-tier stunt pilots performing death-defying aerobatics. Aviation enthusiasts will be delighted to know that the airshow also features modern military aircraft like the F-22 Raptor and the awe-inspiring C-130 Hercules as well as high power drones. 

It's not just the sights but also the thunderous roars of the engines that create an adrenaline-pumping experience. Be sure to arrive early to snag a prime viewing spot, especially if you're a die-hard aviation fan! 

One of the nation's best fireworks displays follows the air shows and is a highlight of the official community kick off for the Kentucky Derby. 

Entertainment and Activities happening beyond the air show and fireworks at the Thunder Over Louisville event  is referred to as "Thunder on the Ground" It is an event including food, interactive displays and “kid’s parks".

Other Activities

Interactive Display Area:
An area featuring interactive exhibits and activities for all ages. Kids Play Areas:
Dedicated areas on the Great Lawn with activities like bounce houses, face painting, and photo opportunities for children. 

Thunder Sound: An area with music and entertainment, providing a lively atmosphere. 

Food and Drink Options

For Thunder Over Louisville 2025, expect a variety of food and drinks. The Thunder FoodFest (a food festival) with over 115 vendors, diverse food options, beer gardens, and the option to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. 

A designated area for food vendors is the Thunder Chow Wagon.

Food and Drink Vendors: Vending is available throughout the venue. 

Bring Your Own: You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages (except at the Thunder Chow Wagon), but coolers are subject to search. 

Beer Gardens: Multiple beer gardens will be available, including those at the Chow Wagon, Great Lawn, West Belvedere, and River Road.No Alcohol is allowed to be brought in. 

The VIP Rooftop Party at the Waterside Parking Garage includes a catered meal with local Kentucky Proud ingredients, a complimentary bar with local and regional beers and specialty cocktails. 

Other Venues: Some venues like Upland Brewing and Thunder at Slugger will also offer food and drink options.

The Muhammad Ali Center will have food and drinks available throughout the day, including access to their exhibits and restrooms.

Joe's Crab Shack will have a special Thunder Over Joe's event with their famous dishes, appetizers, and desserts.

What you need to know

Ticket Entry Fee: Thunder Over Louisville is free to the public with the purchase of a 2025 Pegasus Pin. You’ll need a pin to access the Kentucky Derby Festival’s Thunder on the Ground locations. The pins will grant you free admission to the Thunder Chow Wagon.The Meijer Family Fun Zone at the Big Four Bridge Lawn and North Great Lawn viewing area.

Pins can be purchased from various retailers, such as grocery stores, gas stations, banks and other retail outlets including Krogers from Elizabethtown to Louisville, as well as in Southern Indiana. The pins are $7 each when purchased in advance and $10 at the entrance to events.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: There are multiple events leading up to the Kentucky Derby which is referred to as the Kentucky Derby Festival which starts in March. Check them out!

Thunder Over Louisville: Saturday, April 12th, 2025.                               

Airshow Time: The air show starts at 3:00 p.m            

Drone and Fireworks Show: The drone show is at 9:00 p.m. and the fireworks show starts at 9:30 p.m.

Broadcast: You can watch the event live on WHAS11 or the WHAS11+ app. 

Best Spots to Watch Thunder Over Louisville

Whether you want a front-row seat by the waterfront or a more laid-back view, Louisville and Southern Indiana offer a variety of viewing areas for all preferences. Some of the more popular places include:

• Waterfront Park: The heart of the action, this is the most popular spot to enjoy every moment up close. 
• Big Four Bridge Lawn: A classic choice for families looking for a spacious yet scenic venue. 
• Southern Indiana Side of the River/Jefferson Park: If a panoramic view is your priority, head over to the Jeffersonville or Clarksville side of the river. 

You can also snag a prime spot at one of these places along the river --  Van Dyke Park,  Ashland Park,  Riverstage Park,  Fisherman's Wharf,  or   along the   Ohio River Greenway.

Make it a Weekend Getaway With a Comfortable Stay!

Stay in one of the two self-catering apartments at the Pillow and Paddock Bed and Breakfast.

Just twenty miles east of Louisville in the town of La Grange, Kentucky, is a comfortable and luxurious inn where you can rest after an exciting day at Thunder Over Louisville. The Pillow and Paddock is enveloped by stunning rolling hills, green pastures, elegant estates, and prestigious thoroughbred horse farms in bluegrass country.

Paddock Apartment: This inviting western-themed apartment exudes a cozy ambiance, perfect for your stay.The Paddock Apartment is a 1-bedroom and 1-bathroom apartment that includes a pull-out queen sofa on the main floor of the Inn. It offers a private entrance, sunroom sitting area, newly remodeled kitchenette and spa bathroom.

Prohibition Apartment:  This unique spot has a Roaring 20s style all its own. With direct access to the 1920s Theater and not-so-secret Speakeasy, the Prohibition Apt is a 2-bedroom walk-out basement apartment with full kitchen, living room, and bathroom with walk-in shower, comfortably accommodating up to 4 guests.

Other Amenities: There is more to the Pillow and Paddock apartments than first meets the eye. 

• Both apartments warmly welcome small pets and kids. 
• Gather with friends or family for memorable times, whether in the sunroom, out on the front porch, or in the backyard.
• Relax in the Speakeasy and Movie Theater downstairs.
• Delight your appetite with delicious hearty breakfasts made from scratch and attentive service (additional cost).
• Explore the possibility of a future stay for a wedding, family reunion or other event.

Beyond Thunder Over Louisville

While Thunder Over Louisville is undoubtedly a spectacular standalone event, it also marks the exciting beginning of a vibrant, month-long celebration that leads up to the world-renowned Kentucky Derby. This festival is filled with a variety of festivities and activities, ranging from lively parades that march through the city to thrilling steamboat races that take place on the iconic Ohio River.

The Kentucky Derby Festival brings an infectious energy to the region, keeping the spirit alive and engaging attendees in a multitude of events throughout the entire season. There’s something for everyone to enjoy as the community comes together to celebrate this cherished tradition.

Don’t Miss Out on a Louisville Tradition 

Make this year unforgettable at Thunder Over Louisville, where the sky lights up with breathtaking fireworks and the atmosphere buzzes with excitement.

You’ll leave with cherished memories that will last a lifetime, the joy of meeting new friends who share your passion for this spectacular event, and plenty of reasons to return next year for more fun and festivities. Don’t miss out on the incredible food, thrilling activities, and live entertainment that await you.

See you by the river for an experience you won’t want to miss!