Thunder Over Louisville will blast off this Saturday April 22, 2017. Thunder Over Louisville is the annual kickoff event of the Kentucky Derby Festival and is a fun filled day that includes a one of a kind airshow followed by the largest fireworks display in the country.
The majority of spectators fill the great lawn at waterfront park as that is the most economical way to enjoy Thunder. People start arriving early to claim their spot for the day. On the great lawn you will have an excellent view of the fireworks, airshow, music, and an easy walk over to the chow wagon. The down side to the Great Lawn is the port-a-pots and long lines for them. We recommend taking a roll of TP and some hand sanitizer!
There are several local businesses that offer nice Thunder viewing if you are willing to spend a little money. One is Slugger Field. In addition to the Thunder festivities you can enjoy a full day of baseball and music, reserved seating, and indoor bathrooms, it’s a great place to be on a sunny Thunder day. The Kentucky Center for the Arts also has a nice party where you can come inside to get away from the weather or enjoy their outdoor area. There you can find activities for the kids, clean restrooms, and catered food. The Louisville Science Center is another great location for Thunder as you will have full access to the museum if you aren’t interested in watching the airshow. The have a great indoor viewing area for the fireworks which is perfect for a rainy Thunder. The Yum Center is also a prime location for being indoors to view Thunder as well as The Galt House, which has packages available even if you aren’t staying in the hotel.
If crowds give you anxiety or weather looks as questionable as it does this year than you may want to consider the best seat of all, your couch as live coverage can be seen all day on most of the local TV channels.
