LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — As the Kentucky Derby approaches, nearly half a million people are expected to line the banks of the Ohio River this weekend for Thunder Over Louisville's air show and fireworks display.
With the annual event just days away, production crews are back in downtown Louisville setting up the command center high above the city for the first time since 2024, after last year's Thunder was canceled due to flooding along the river.
"We haven't seen each other for a couple years now and it's good to get the team back together," Thunder of Louisville Director Mandie Creed said.
Organizers say anticipation is high after last year's absence, with crews preparing for what they expect to be large crowds.
"We have a feeling a lot of people are going to come out in force just because we missed it last year and it's a favorite of a lot of the community," said Creed.
Weather remains a key factor leading up to Saturday's show. While rain is possible, organizers say the event will continue unless conditions become dangerous.
"As long as it's not heavy rain or wind, the show will go on," Creed said.
Officials are closely monitoring conditions using a weather station placed on the Second Street Bridge, which provides real-time data on cloud ceiling and incoming weather systems.
In Jeffersonville, Indiana, businesses are also preparing for changes tied to the city's DORA program — Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area — which will be in effect during Thunder for the first time.
"It allows you to get a drink from one of the businesses up and down the street or this bar and walk down to see some fireworks or see the planes flying," said Daniel Mahony, who co-owns The Alcove.
The program covers much of downtown Jeffersonville, allowing visitors to carry designated cups from specific vendors in designated areas.
"You maybe don't have to bring a giant cooler stocked for the day — you can actually hang out and have a few drinks and it makes life a lot easier for everybody," Mahony said.
Some military aircraft have been canceled this year due to overseas operations, but organizers say other aerial acts will still perform ahead of the fireworks show.
"I like it at the very end when you can't hear the music and the whole building is shaking. It's not a feeling you have anywhere else at any other fireworks show," Creed said.
The air show begins at 3 p.m. Saturday, followed by a drone show at 9 p.m. and fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
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