LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Flooding may have put out the spark of Thunder Over Louisville this year, but fans of the annual event have another chance to see a big fireworks show.

More than 10,000 people are expected to pack Waterfront Park Friday night for the city's Fourth of July celebration.

After this year's edition of Thunder Over Louisville was canceled as the city dealt with flooding from the Ohio River, the city and Waterfront Park teamed up to deliver a bigger, brighter Independence Day celebration.

"We usually come down every year ... I think we are going to come to that," said Kyle Bishop, referring to Friday's celebration.

The celebration will include food trucks, live music and fireworks, all backed by the city, and is expected to attract thousands.

"We wanted to make sure this 4th of July was special, knowing that we canceled Thunder Over Louisville, and so I'm proud that we put money in the city budget to ensure Waterfront Park could do this again," Mayor Craig Greenberg said.

This was only the second time in Thunder's history that it has been canceled, the first happening in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. This year would have been the 36th iteration of the spring event. Louisville was under a state of emergency for flooding and severe weather, and the water wouldn't have receded in time for preparations for the event to happen.

Greenberg said the city partnered with Waterfront Park to ensure the celebration is bigger and better after a spring season that left some disappointed.

"There was disappointment, but people also understood," he said. "I mean, remember, where we're standing right now was totally underwater."

This year's show is free and open to the public.

"The city is helping sponsor this event so that the entire community can enjoy it free of charge," said Greenberg. "There's going to be great fireworks. There's going to be a lovely talent show, lots of great food and safe family activities."

For some families, it serves as a chance to turn a rainy letdown into a red, white and blue memory.

"We will probably get the kids from dinner and head down at like, sometime around 6 or 7 (p.m.), probably park somewhere around here and just walk in with the wagon and the kids," said Bishop. 

For those looking for ways to light up their weekend without having to spend money on their own fireworks, Waterfront Park will be the place to be.

Waterfront Park Fourth of July sponsored by Ford

  • Friday, July 4, 2025, at Waterfront Park
  • 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 
  • Bring a blanket or lawn chairs
  • Celebration to feature "Waterfront's Most Talented," a variety show showcasing Louisville's talented residents
  • Kosair for Kids Children’s Area offers themed activities and games centered around science, music, art, and nature throughout the evening
  • Fireworks display at 10 p.m. 
  • For more information, click here

To look at WDRB's complete guide to fireworks and events around Kentuckiana to celebrate the holiday, click here or on the link below.

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