Where does the festival take place?
The Fifth Third Waterfront Independence Festival is held on the Great Lawn, Waterfront Park. Click here for directions.
Where can I park?
Paid vehicle parking is available in the Witherspoon and Waterside garages and in the surface lot adjacent to Louisville Slugger Field. Parking is also available along River Road and neighboring streets. Additional surface lots, parking garages, and on-street parking are available south of Main Street. Free parking for bicycles will be provided by Bicycling for Louisville A secure bicycle valet service will be provided by Bicycling for Louisville in exchange for a donation.
What time is the festival?
The festival gates open both days at 5pm. Concessions and children’s activities will open at 5pm both days. Performance times vary; fireworks will take place at approximately 10:30pm on July 3rd and 10:15pm on July 4th. Please visit the schedule page for a detailed schedule of performances and activities.
What can I bring?
Blankets, and lawn chairs are allowed. You can bring water in small plastic bottles AS LONG AS IT HAS NOT BEEN OPENED - the seal must be unbroken.
What can I NOT bring?
Prohibited items: Outside food and alcohol, tents, glass, coolers, cans, bottles, pets, bicycles inside the event space (a secure bicycle valet parking service will be provided near event entrance on the South Great Lawn), skateboards and weapons. NOTE: You can bring water in small plastic bottles AS LONG AS IT HAS NOT BEEN OPENED - the seal must be unbroken.
Can I ride my bicycle to the Waterfront Independence Festival?
Yes! We encourage patrons to ride bicycles to the event and help reduce our carbon footprint!
Where can I park my bicycle?
On both July 3 and 4, bicycle parking will be available for festival attendees who want to ride their bikes instead of driving to the event. This parking is located on the Great Lawn near the main entrance to the Festival on Witherspoon Street. There is no charge for the service. Bicycling for Louisville will accept freewill donations for bicycle advocacy.
Is drinking water available at the event?
Fountains with fresh water are available inside the event. Bottled water and soft drinks can be purchased from vendors.
Will there be activities for kids?
Yes, a description of children’s activities can be found here. All children’s activities are absolutely FREE.
Will there be fireworks both nights?
Yes, there will be fireworks both nights.
What time are the fireworks?
The fireworks will take place at approximately 10:15pm on July 3rd, and approximatley 10:00pm on July 4th.
What happens if it rains? Will the event be postponed?
The event will take place rain or shine. In the case of inclement weather, the schedule of some performances may vary as needed.
Are hotel rooms available for the 5/3 Bank Waterfront Independence Festival?
The Host Hotel for the 5/3 Waterfront Independence Festival is the Galt House Hotel and Suites. The Galt House is within close walking distance to the festival, via the Belvedere Connector and 4th Street near the Belle of Louisville. The Galt House Hotel & Suites is offering a special package for the holiday weekend - pay for Saturday night, July 3rd and stay Sunday night, July 4th for free! For more information, visit www.galthouse.com/Packages/Live-Louisville.asp or call 800-The-Galt (843-4258) or 502-589-5200.
