Labor Day weekend is the unofficial close of summer. The end of cookouts, pool parties and the dwindling availability of outdoor concerts and fairs. Thankfully, there are many ways to mark the weekend here in Louisville. With a celebration of laborers, a free concert, flea markets and an international festival, there are oodles of reasons to put down your lemonade and venture off your patio. If you are interested in staying home and having a cookout, keep an eye on the weather reports. We have average temperatures listed, but Louisville weather can been volatile.
Of course, the end of summer also means the beginning of school. By the time it’s Labor Day, most schools around Louisville have already begun. Here is an academic calendar for Jefferson County Public Schools, the public school system of Louisville, if you need to know which days schools are closed kids. Labor Day is a JCPS holiday. There are child friendly events below, or check out our list of things to do in Louisville with kids and keep your family entertained.
Also, before shedding a tear for summer, remember that autumn brings new pleasures, too. For instance, it’s the beginning of the theatre season, with Actors Theatre of Louisville opening their first play of the season, Romeo and Juliet, on September 4.
Happy Labor Day!
A Celebration of All Those Who Labor
When: Friday, August 31, 7-8 p.m.
Where: Carmichael's Bookstore- Frankfort Avenue
Carmichael's bookstore is hosting a celebration to kick of Labor Day weekend. Essayists from the new book Motif v3 : All the Livelong Day will be featured. The book is an anthology focusing on writings about work. Sue Massek a singer,songwriter, activist and banjo player will also perform.
Labor Day Weekend at Howl at the Moon
When: Friday, August 31 through Monday, September 3.
Where: Howl at the Moon at 4th Street Live!
Howl at the Moon is a nightclub with dueling pianos and audience participation. Over the holiday weekend, there will be drink specials and contests (with cash rewards and party prizes). There is a cover charge for admission.
Cherokee Triangle Summer Concert
When: Monday, September 3
Where: Willow Park, at the corner of Cherokee Parkway & Willow Avenue.
These concerts usually take place on Sunday nights, from 7-9 p.m., in Willow Park. This last concert of the season is the exception; it takes place on a Labor Day. The event is free, but donations for Highlands Community Ministries Dare to Care food bank. So bring canned goods or toiletries to donate and a blanket to relax on and enjoy the sounds of The Ovation Orchestra (Big Band Swing).
Storybook Character Days
When: September 1-2, noon-4 p.m.
Where: Louisville Zoo
Has your child been aching to meet a cartoon celebrity? Over the weekend, visitors can meet characters throughout the zoo. Larry and Bob from Veggie Tales, Curious George, the Man in the Yellow Hat, Llama Llama, Lyle Lyle Crocodile and Clifford are all scheduled to attend. Event is free with admission.
WorldFest
When: August 31-September 2
Where: Downtown, on the Belvedere
Held annually on Labor Day Weekend, WorldFest is a celebration of different cultures, cuisines and languages of the world. It is the largest gathering of its kind in Kentucky. As the website states, “at least 90 languages spoken in the Louisville public schools and 50 percent of the city’s population growth over the past 15 years coming from international residents, Louisville is more culturally diverse than ever before.”
Hike, Bike & Paddle
When: Monday, September 3
Where: Waterfront Park's Great Lawn
The starting points of this event are all in Waterfront Park, but this sporty festivity is an opportunity to hike and bike around Louisville. Call (502) 574-5011 with questions on the event. Interested in renting a canoe or kayak? Contact River City Canoe & Kayak, a business partner of the event, at (502) 384-3737 or info@rcckonline.com.
Kentucky Flea Market Spectacular
When: August 31-September 3Where: Kentucky Expo Center
Find treasures at over 1000 booths at this free event. Have a wrestling fan in the house? Wrestling legends Honkytonk Man, Greg the Hammer and Hacksaw Jim Duggan will be in attendance. Show hours are Friday, noon- 6 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and Monday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Labor Day Picnic Lunch on the River
When: Monday, September 3rd, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Belle of Louisville
There’s no better way than saying farewell to summer with a trip down the river. Sound appealing? Enjoy a lunch cruise on the historic Belle of Louisville. Boarding for the cruise begins at 11:30 a.m. and is scheduled to set out at noon and return at 2 p.m.
