Thunder Over Louisville blasts off this Saturday

Thunder Over Louisville blasts off this Saturday, April 12^th on the Waterfront in Downtown Louisville.   Thunder is the official opening for the two week long Kentucky Derby Festival which culminates with the running of the 140^th Kentucky Derby on May 3^rd.

This marks the 24^th consecutive year for Thunder Over Louisville and attendance has grown to over half a million people annually.     The day encompasses an airshow, and family friendly events along with the grand finale—a huge fireworks show synchronized to a soundtrack that is broadcast via PA and radio.  The crowd lines both the Kentucky and Indiana banks of the Ohio River along with a flotilla of boats on the Ohio River.    Establish your spot early in the day for the best viewing of the fireworks.

The fireworks are launched from eight 400-foot barges that are anchored in the Ohio River.  The fireworks also cascade from both sides of the George Rogers Clark Memorial (2^nd Street) Bridge and are shot from the bridge itself.    The Zambelli Fireworks Company, one of the oldest firework companies in the nation, sets off over 50,000 shells during a 20 minute show, making Thunder one of the largest firework shows in the world.

Admission is Free and the venue opens at 11 am.  Events begin at 3 pm with the Air Show.   This year the very popular Blue Angels will be appearing again along with a F22 demonstration.

The Meijer Kid zone features bounce houses, face painting and lawn games.     There are also food and beverage stands for food and drink purchase.     Coolers are welcome but no tents, stakes or pets are allowed.

Downtown traffic patterns will be altered to handle the crowd so please visit thunderoverLouisville.org for the latest updates.    Plan ahead and enjoy a full day of great free entertainment with the family.