Labor Day Activities 2015

Only one day's between us and the three day weekend that marks the unofficial end to summer.  If you're in town, don't fret, there's plenty to do.  Here's a roundup of some events to look out for this weekend.

WorldFest

Weekend Long Festivals

WorldFest
Friday 11 a.m. - Monday 11 p.m.
Belvedere (Main & 5th)
Visit the entire world right in your own backyard.  Come see the colorful display of costumes during the parade of nations on Saturday at noon, taste exotic fares at the food court, discover a world of culture at the Global Village, and dance the night away each night to the beat of world music.

Flea Off Market
Friday:11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
1007 E. Jefferson St.
A popular monthly flea market with over 100 vendors selling hand-made items, local arts and crafts, jewelry, clothing, accessories, antiques, etc. The many food trucks will keep you full and the live music will keep you entertained.

Kentucky Bluegrass Festival
Louisville Water Tower
3005 River Road
Friday: 5 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday: 4 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday: 4 p.m. - 11 p.m.
$12 before 6, $16 after 6p.m., Kids 10 and under FREE; $30 pass for all 3 days
Celebrate the end of summer with bluegrass bands from across the nation, bbq, craft vendors and of course, bourbon.

Steamboat Festival
Friday: 6 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Head over to Jeffersonville Indiana for a weekend of celebrating all things steamboat.  There's a balloon glimmer on Friday, parade on Saturday, boat race on Sunday.  Family friend events, vendors, food, and music all days.

Columbus' Ships: the Nina & Pinta
9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
8/28/2015 - 9/7/2015
131 River Road
$8/adults, $7 (60+); $6 (5 - 16), 4 and under free
Come to the waterfront to check out these beautiful replicas of Columbus' ships.  Admire it from the outside or come into the floating museum for a little more of a history lesson.

Kentucky Flea Market
Friday & Saturday : 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Monday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Kentucky Expo Centere
937 Phillips Lane
For a little respite from the heat this weekend, the Kentucky Flea Market is the perfect place.  With over 1,000 booths there, you'll have plenty to keep you busy.

Bats fireworks from the Big Fourth Bridge

Friday 9/4/2015

First Friday Trolley Hop 
5 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Route
Visit downtown art galleries, shops, restaurants via a trolley/TARC bus for free.  40+ businesses with extended hours offer special discounts, refreshments, and live music.  Be sure to stop by 21c and check out the cool art work and the word wall.

Louisville Bats fireworks
Waterfront | Big Four Bridge
After the games (game starts at 7:05 p.m.)
I'm not a fan of baseball but definitely a fan of the Friday fireworks that can be viewed from the Big Four Bridge.  It's a beautiful backdrop for a late dinner stroll.

Saturday 9/5/2015

Free Samples of Ice Cream
3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
841 S. Hurstbourne Parkway
I'm a fan of this nitrogen ice cream joint.  They're giving away samples so come check it out.

Three Points Block Party
6 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.
Three Points
1256 Logan Street
Celebrate the completion of Three Points (the intersection of three neighborhoods: German-Paristown, Schnitzelburg, and Shelby Park) with music, food, booze, art and more.

The Golden Culture Art and Music Festival 
6 p.m. - 2 a.m.
Tim Faulkner Gallery
1512 Portland Ave
Presale: $15; at door: $20
Come for the 16 hip hop performers, the live graffiti artists, and art show case at this cool Portland gallery.

Outsized Influence Festival
2:30 p.m.
Bellarmine University
2001 Newburg Road
A free festival featuring lots of Bellarmine talents, bands, art, and food trucks.

Delicious drinks from El Camino

Sunday

Free Pig Roast & Movie
10 p.m.
El Camino
1314 Bardstown Road
Free pig roast and movie from El Camino every Sunday until 12/27/2015.  Also look for specials on adult beverages.

DOGHAUS! Labor Day Weekend Cookout
4 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Gralehaus
1001 Baxter Ave
Dogs & weiners, grill treats, beer cocktails, cold beer, watermelon, and music at this local favorite that's known for it's amazing beer selection.

Monday

Subway Fresh Fit Hike Bike and Paddle
7 a.m. ~ 1:00 p.m.
Louisville Waterfront Park – Great Lawn
One of my favorite Louisville events.  Thousands of people come over to bike, hike and paddle.   The city closes the streets for cyclists, maps a hiking map at the waterfront, and give free kayak tour (or you can bring your own) onn the Ohio River.  Come early to check out the health-centric booths and get some free swags.

Family Palooza
11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
All Southeast Christian campuses: Blankenbaker, Indiana, Oldham, Southwest
Free day of carnival games, inflatables, water slides, arts & crafts, food items for $1 or less

Free Fridays Museum in Cincy

If you are in the Cincinnati area or thinking about taking a trip, here's a great deal to look forward to.

Cave at Museum of Natural History & Science. source

• What: Free admission to 3 museums on Fridays
• Where: Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science and Cincinnati History Museum
• Dates: June 12, July 24, August 21, September 11, and October 23, 2015
• Time: 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
• Parking: $4 after 4:30 and $6 before 4:30 p.m.

From the Cincy Museum website:

"Visit Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science and Cincinnati History Museum free of charge! Climb through the tunnels and bridges in the three-story woods, travel back in time in our immersive ice age exhibit and step aboard a replica of the 94-foot steamboat, the Queen of the West.  During the June through September Free Fridays, explore Treasures of Our Military Past. Through uniforms, weaponry, medical instruments, supplies, photographs and documents, the exhibit honors the courage and sacrifice of men and women who served our nation for over two centuries. Such military efforts include campaigns launched from Fort Washington, the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, Civil War, both World Wars and post-World War II military action in Korea, Vietnam, the Cold War and more recent conflicts."

Thanks A.W. for sharing another great deal!

Great Vietnamese Food at Tet

If you're looking for a great Vietnamese food weekend, come to the annual Tet celebration hosted by the Vietnamese Community of Louisville.

You can expect to see a lot of fun entertainment and awesome homemade food that you will not find at other restaurants around town.

Hot items on the menu include: pho, rice porridge, bun bo Hue (Hue beef noodles).  You can also try favorites like egg rolls, lotus salad, banh mi sandwiches, roasted pork, puddings and other Vietnamese sweets.

Here are the details:

Date: Saturday, 2/28/2015
Time: 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Location:  St. John Vianey Church
4839 Southside Drive (Hall at the back of the church)

Look for me and I'll give you a food tour!

The Perfect Anti-Valentine’s Day

If Valentine’s Day give you no reason to celebrate or you’re just over the expensive pink/red frivolities and the overpriced dinners characterizing this day, try this cheap and fun alternative. For those without a date, grab a friend.  It’ll give “friends with benefit” a whole new meaning.

Free Burrito
On February 14, 2015 only, Qdoba is offering a buy one get one free smothered burrito, for the price of a kiss.  You don’t need coupons, just order and give your partner a kiss to get this great deal, a peck on the cheek is perfectly okay! If you’re rocking it solo on Valentine’s day, surprise an unsuspecting stranger in line or the cute cashier, then grab an empty table to enjoy those two delicious beauties.

Free Movie
Instead of heading to the movies with other couples, spend an intimate movie night at home with your sweet heart or the friend you just used to get that free burrito.  The Redbox at Kroger is offering a free movie rental when you use the code: LOVE (valid until 2/15/2015).  Or use these other codes:NDNQM3QK, 5DKH9WZQ, 29T7MWGX, 92494TK3 or VXHTNG54 (valid until 2/16/2015), anywhere.  There are some awesome new releases out, like the ass kicking John Wick, the psychological thriller Gone Girl and romantic the Fault in Our Stars.  (You’ll have to use it at the kiosk, not online)

Whatever clever ideas you come up with to celebrate this day, enjoy!

Valentine's Date Ideas

Love is in the air and in the pressure is on to plan the perfect Valentine’s Day date.  A swanky dine and wine experience in Louisville’s many delicious restaurants is the easiest and quickest way to satisfy many valentine’s expectation. But if low lighting and expensive meals are not really your thing, there are fun and stress-free alternatives.

These unique Valentine's Day activities could easily be done with friends, families or just by your own awesome self. If you still want to go to that fancy dinner, combine the two!  Valentine’s on a Saturday means you can have cheap fun in the day and a fancy dinner at night or vice versa.

Regardless of where you end up, have fun celebrating your love (as you should every day of the year).

Dine at the Castle 
If you're not one to take Valentine's Day seriously, White Castle is the place to be.  You’ll find fresh cut flowers, romantic candles, white table clothes, and five star table service at White Castle on Vday.  The best part is you can stuff yourself silly with cheap and well-loved menu items without breaking the bank.  This was by far my husband’s favorite Valentine’s spot and a fun experience for me.  It’s also a great place for a family dinner date with the kids.

Zip Line Under Louisville 
The money saved at a cheap dinner can go towards a one of a kind adventurous date at the world’s only underground zip line course.  Spend the next 2.5 hours flying high and fast through the six zip lines and two challenge bridges at Louisville Mega Cavern.  It’s currently rated as the #1 attraction in Louisville by visitors on Tripadvisor.  Photo source. 

Va Va Vixens Sexy Burlesque Show 
For a sexy fun time, take your date or all your single girl friends to see Va Va Vixen, a modern day burlesque variety show with a bit of vaudevillian flair. The talented 25 (men and women) member troupe will perform dances, acrobats, aerial acts, strip tease and singing at Headliners most weekends in February. Va Va Valentine Fairie’s Tail will definitely beat the boring dinner and movie routine.  Purchase tickets online or at the door.  The VIP tickets are sold out. Photo source. 

Museums, Crafts and Love Letters
For a more innocent and family friendly experience, spend a day on Museum Row browsing presidential love letters at Frazier or make valentine crafts at the KMAC MakersSpace.  As an added bonus, for the entire month of February, Kentucky and Indiana residents can visit Frazier History Museum, Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft, Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, Muhammad Ali Center for only $5 (a nice saving from the $9 - $13 normal admission). Photo Source.

Schimpff’s for Candy Lovers
For your sweethearts with a bit of a sweet tooth, why give them a meager box of chocolate when you can give them the entire store worth of sweets at Schimpff’s Confectionery. This living museum is Jeffersonville’s best kept secret, selling and making candies for 123 years. Browse the nostalgia-induced candy museum in the back, watch people make candy the old fashion way, and treat your valentine(s) to hundreds of candy variety.  This is a great place to take your tiny valentines.

Cupid’s Undie Run
For your athletic valentine, go naked! Uh..I mean half naked at the Cupid’s Undie Run, a 5k charity run benefiting the Children’s Tumor Foundation.  What better way to show love than raising money to a worthy cause while running half naked in your flashiest underwear with your valentine or in a team of your craziest friends. Photo Source.

Jefferson Memorial Forest Candlelit Hike
Combine nature and romance by taking your date on a romantic candlelit hike (1/2 mile) at Jefferson Memorial Forest that ends with a beautiful view of Louisville night lights from the county's second highest point.  The night will continue with hors d'oeuvres, desserts, warm beverage, board games inside the Forest Manor’s House, complete with two crackling fire places.  If weather permitting, bonfire and star gazing outside.  Call the welcome Center at 368-5404 to make reservation by 2/9/2015.

Solve A Murder Mystery
Add a bit of mystery and murder to your Valentine’s dinner at the Dinner Detective interactive and improvised comedic show. Throughout the duration of the four course sit down meal, you’ll be actively involved in solving a murder mystery using clues and help from detectives.  Saturday show is sold out but Friday is still available.

An Old Fashioned Romance 
Who says romance is Old Fashioned?  Come celebrate romance at Copper and King American Brandy's cocktail party. Make your own Old Fashioned cocktail to go with the hors d'oeuvres from Rye and desserts from Art Eatables, visit the new art exhibit while enjoying live music by Dane Waters and French Lounge.

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If Valentine's Day is inducing your gag reflex, you're definitely not alone! But there are ways to celebrate that too.  Join the Anti-Valentine's Day rebellion at Garage Bar Anti-Valentine's Day Tap Takeover with an anti-Vday themed beer list and small bites, both on Friday 2/13 and Saturday 2/14. Come laugh about love with Raanan Hersherb  Bitter Valentine's Day Comedy Show at the Bard's Town.  Or join the the a Peabody Award-winning Moth StorySLAM at Headliners to listen to "Love Hurts" stories told live and unrehearsed by audience members just like you on Tuesday 2/10/215. Photo source.

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Goat cheese frito from Cena

If you're still looking for a place to eat, here are 25 restaurants offering special menus on love day. These are nicer restaurants, so expect to pay a pretty price and to fight for a reservation.  I recommend Louis Le Francais for its cute French atmosphere (food is just okay for me), Gary's on Spring for an off the beaten track feel with a delicious and inventive menu, and Cena Italian Trattoria for amazing Italian with a twist (it also feels like an exclusive secret hideaway).

Weekend Plans - Two New Noodle Houses, A Coconut Beach and A Free Pig Roast

The strong winds and cold temperature last week was a brutal way to say goodbye to fall.  It left trees bare and turned pretty leaves brownish, effectively ruining many fall plans and activities outdoors.  So what to do instead now that outdoor activities are dictate by the whims of the changing weather?  Well friends, when you’re in a city with over 2,500 restaurants and new ones popping up on the daily, the next best thing to do is move the party indoor and EAT.

I’m planning a culinary adventure this weekend that involves 2 new noodle houses, a new coconut bar and a free pig roast.  Get your stretchy pants ready because we’re in for some serious eating ahead.  Winter is coming after all and a warm body is an insulated body :)

Source: Rumplings Facebook Page

Rumplings Slurp Shop | 2009 Highland Ave (on the side of Wick’s Pizza building)
Wednesday – Saturday, 5 p.m. – 5 a.m.
Bowls are between $5.50 and $17
This one of a kind noodle shop will start offering authentic gourmet house made ramen, dumplings and noodles this Friday, November 7.  Be prepared to wait in long lines since there has been a lot of buzz gathering among food enthusiasts and the place is small!  Okay, so this Asian is a bit skeptical since three American born chefs are cooking up dishes with roots in Asia but I’m keeping an open mind.  As long as the food taste good, I’m all for it (most Japanese places in Louisville are not really Japanese owned but they are still delicious).  You can expect to see traditional ramen dishes as well as ramen with a little bit of a twist.   For example, the Kentucky bowl includes all the flavor of the Blue Grass State, smoked brisket, fried collard greens, chicken demi and bourbon peppercorn glaze.  Good or not, it’ll definitely be an interesting experience.

Source: Bentuhua Facebook Page

Bentuhua Tea House and Small Eats | 2520 Frankfort Ave
Tuesday - Friday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
All dishes under $9
Young Taiwanese native Veronica Chang recently opened a tea house in the Crescent Hill area serving Taiwanese street foods, teas, desserts and boba milk teas.  The menu consists of various noodle dishes, dumplings, curry, and other interesting appetizer size dishes commonly found in the streets of Taiwan.  The restaurant looks small and cozy, intent as a place to hang out and to socialize.  Street foods is every Asian girls' weakness and I can't wait to try the Taiwanese version.

Coconut Beach Tacos and Cerveza | 2787 S. Floyd Street
Hours not available, call 634-2843 for details
Most items under $7, specialty dishes $9-$12
The the owners El Taco Luchador, Mussels and Burgers, and Guacamole just added another restaurant for us all to love.  If you're familiar with those three lovely restaurants than you can expect the same quality of good and fun dishes from Coconut.  Located across from Papa John's Cardinal Stadium, Coconut's menu is a simpler and cheaper version of its sister restaurants.  Tacos are $2, burritos $7, sandwiches $6, and other dishes are also reasonably priced.  Head here this weekend with a group of friends so you can share all the delicious dishes. Photo source: Coconut FB page.

El Camino Free Pig Roast and Movie| 1314 Bardstown road
Sundays | 10 pm - 2:00 a.m.
By Sunday your wallet will probably be a little lighter and free food will sound very tempting.  Well you're in luck, el Camino, a fairly new restaurant on Bardstown Road offers free pig roast and movie every Sunday from 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. I don't know what to expect but I've had their tacos, drinks and dessert at an event and thoroughly enjoyed it.  If you're not up for eating, grab one of the drink specials and hang out at their unique indoor and outdoor spaces.  The outside seating area has fire pits right on the tables and inside are several bars and couches to chill.

Halloween's Lazy Blog Post

My husband in a onesie, inside a banana | 

I apologize ahead of time that this will be my laziest blog posts yet, I’ll be mostly sharing links :)

It’s Halloween and it’s cold! We’ll be hitting the streets tonight, rain or shine, cold or warm.  My niece and nephews have been waiting all year for this and nothing is stopping them.  If you’re thinking about going out tonight, here’s a great website with information trick or treating around Louisville.

Have you been to Hillcrest Ave? Head there if you haven’t, starting at the intersection of Hillcrest Ave & Frankfort Ave to Hillcrest & Brownsboro Rd.  It’s a Halloween Mecca for Louisvillians.  Residents of that entire street go all out and decked the entire street in Halloween decors.  Some are scary, other funny and all are entertaining.  Be warned, because it’s popular, the street will be super busy.  You might have to park a block away then walk down the street.  DON’T drive down that street, it’s narrow and you might be stuck in traffic for a while.  Unless of course you want to see the decorations and don't want to walk :)

So what’s going on this weekend? Not a lot of interesting stuff, most events you’ll have to pay. We’ll be heading out to take some fall photos around Louisville and I'll be sharing some favorite spots for Fall.

Here’s a link if you want to check out events going on around Louisville this weekend.

Weekend Plans - Fried Chicken Throw Down at Resurfaced

It's been a busy week and an even busier weekend ahead, so my blog activities have been down some what.  I've started and stopped at least 5 different blog posts and can't wait to share some stuff I've been working on.  But for now here are some exciting stuff going on this weekend, the condensed version.

We're starting the weekend off with a Once Upon a Time theme party at Beckley Station with drinks at the Dragon Keep's Tavern leading to a Royal Banquet in the Great Hall and finally dancing until the clock strikes midnight. The event benefits the Boys Scout of America.

The rest of Friday and Saturday, you'll see us at Resurfaced (615-621 West Main Street).  If you haven't been here yet, I highly recommend it, especially since it's their last week. The idea is to temporarily transform vacant lots into a pop-up beer garden, outdoor cafe, and event space for community gatherings.  It's a really neat space to hang out with friends and enjoy the rotating list of entertainment.  It's cozy with plenty of benches, picnic tables, chairs and even a fire pit! Come at night to see the pretty lights, it feels like you're hanging out at your friend's back yard (a really cool friend, and a really cool back yard).  Events going on there this weekend:



Friday
Walden Theatre Benefit and Costume Party

• 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. | Food, beer, costume contest, face painting, bake sale, silent auction, etc. 
• 8:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. | Billy Goat Strut: Add Ky flavors to New Orleans Jazz and you got beautiful Bourbon Jazz. 
• 10:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. | OKDeejay Dance Party!

Saturday
Louisville Fried Chicken Throw Down

• 3 p.m - 6:30 p.m. | The first fried chicken competition with winners for best chicken and best side getting $500 each.  Admission is free, $3 to taste the chicken and $2 for the sides. Participating restaurants: Milkwood, Loop 22, Sway, Zanzabar, Galt House, Bourbons Bistro, Roux, Wiltshire, Against the Grain and Four Pegs. 

Bioneers Conference After Party

• 9 p.m. - 11 p.m. | Kentucky Shakespeare's reading of Macbeth, DJs and drinks after. 

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Other things going on around town:

18th Century Market Fair at Locust Grove
Saturday - Sunday, 10/25  - 10/26| 10 - 4:30 p.m.
561 Blankenbaker Lane
Adults $8, Children $4.
Come experience 18th century entertainment, food, drinks and purchase replica items from that era.  Speak with early Americans and Native Americans and watch a mock battle for America's independence.

Halloween in Brown Park
Saturday, 10/25 | 11 p.m. - 2 p.m. (Trick or Treat 11:30 - 1:30 p.m.)
Brown Park, 3940 Grandview Ave
A free family event that brought over 2,000 people last year.  There'll be: games, hayrides, a petting zoo, a fire truck, inflatables, entertainment, trick-or-treating, and much more. I saw photos from last year and it seems like a great event for family with kids.

11th Annual Bardstown Bound Boo Fest
Saturday, 10/25 | 2 - 6 p.m.
Baxter Avenue, Bardstown Road, and the Douglass Loop
Businesses and restaurants in the highlands are offering specials, tasting and special events to attract visitors to the area.  The last Bardstown Bound event we went to was a dud since not many businesses participated.  But because it's also a Halloween celebration, it might be a little more festive and worth checking out.

*Bonus: El Camino FREE Pig Roast and Movie Night
Sundays | 10 pm - 2:00 a.m.
1314 Bardstown Road
If you want to squeeze the most out of your weekend and still have the energy, head over to the new and trendy El Camino for some free food. I don't know what to expect but free is good food to me. I had their food and enjoyed it, the atmosphere and decor is especially cool. If you can't make it this week, come back another time. they have it every Sunday.

Weekend Plans - All About Boats and Beers

The Belle of Louisville is turning the big 1-0-0 this year and a big celebration is currently going on to commemorate this milestone at the Festival of Riverboats.  So this weekend it's all about the Belle, the river and riverboats.

Sure, there are some other stuff going around town, but they're all small potatoes comparing to this week long celebration.  After all, it's only once in a life time that we celebrate a 100th birthday for a familiar Louisville's favorite.  Daily there will be a wide range of bands playing music at several stages, artisan showcase, food and beverage.  There's also the Belle's Bourbon Landing, an award winning structure/tent (?) that's suppose to be cool to check out.  The celebration started Tuesday but all the major stuff are going on this weekend.

Detailed information are available on their website, but here's the condensed version:

• Dates: Tuesday, 10/14 - Sunday, 10/19
• Time: Fri/Sat 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., Sunday: 11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Louisville Waterfront Park
• Parking:  The lots in the park are free but remember you now have to pay for metered street parking on Saturday, free after 6 p.m.  Free valet parking for your bikes!

River Cruises
Several types of cruises are offered this whole week, check here for a complete list.  You can get tickets online. 

A Century of River Commerce: River Industry Display Boats

Tuesday - Sunday: all day
11 river boats will be parked along the river with hands on activities, a knot tying area, river lore storytellers, dam model, and free tours.  

Courier-Journal Balloon Glow (weather dependent)

Friday, 10/17, 7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Balloon glows are always pretty, probably prettier against the backdrop of the Ohio River.

The Belle's Big Birthday Bash
Saturday, 10/18
A parade of boats down the Ohio River, narrated by Mark Twain, 1:15 p.m.- 2:30 p.m. Fireworks 9 p.m. - 10 p.m..  

Riverboat Racing
Friday, Spirit of Peoria vs. River Queen @ 1:30 p.m.
Sunday, Belle of Louisville vs. Belle of Cincinnati vs. american Queen @ 3 p.m.

Steamboat Days - Southern Indiana
Friday 10/17 - Sunday 10/19

Walk across the Big Fourth Bridge to  for an extended celebration in Jeffersonville.  There'll be arts, crafts, music, food and also a Kids Fun Zone (Fri/Sat: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sun 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) and storytelling. Complete list of events here.

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If the River is not your thing there are three more events that would be interesting to check out:

This was @ Bardstown

Brewfest
Friday, 10/17, 4 - 10 p.m.
Louisville Slugger Field
, 401 East Main Street
, 40202
$5 admission includes a souvenir cup. Designated drivers get free admission. Beer (12oz) and wine (4-5 oz) samples are $1.
A great event for beer lover (so you probably won't find me here).  A lot of beer, wine and a few bourbon vendors will be there for you to sample their goods.  Food from several local restaurants will also be available for purchase.

Glendale, Ky

Glendale Crossing Festival
Saturday, 10/18, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., parade at 10 a.m.
Glendale, KY
If you're not tired of festivals yet from the marathon last week, head south on I-65 to an artsy/antique town of Glendale (around 1 hour S. of Louisville) for a festival that will host around 500 art, craft and food booths.  The town is small but cute mostly lined with antique shops and a very good restaurant, the Whistle Stop.  It should be a huge event and a fun excursion out of town.

Berheim Forest

Berheim ColorFest
Saturday, 10/18, 9 a.m. -5 p.m. & Sunday, 10/19, 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
2499 Clermont Rd, Clermont, KY 40110
$5/car, $10/van
For the nature lover, head to Berheim for their festival that includes unique arts and craft vendors, foods, kids friendly activities that revolves around nature, a pumpkin launch, hayride, etc..  You'll also get to see the beautiful fall plants and foliage.

Weekend Plans - Festivals Galore

Fall is synonymous with festivals.  This weekend especially, almost every neighborhood is hosting one version or another of a fall festival.  You can expect to see the stables: music, food, beer, arts and crafts, family friendly activities and neighborhood specific celebration.  Three different versions of Octoberfest are also happening around town, a Porktoberfest, a Dogtoberfest and even a Barktoberfest.

While my husband is out enduring his own brand of torture via the Bourbon Chase, a 200 miles relay race along Kentucky's Bourbon Trail, I'll be the smarter of us two and enjoy the festivities with the kids!

Highlands & Nearby Areas

Farmington's Harvest Fest
Friday - Sunday, 10/10 - 10/12 | Time not listed
3033 Bardstown Road (By Sullivan University) 

• $20/car on Friday, which includes food trucks, bluegrass music and craft brews. Bring chairs and picnic blankets 
• $10/car on Saturday, re-enactments of famous Civil War battles all day and an interactive camp for kids.  It's all about history today. 
• $5/car on Sunday, it's full fall fest mode.  Antiques and unique market today along with Abraham Lincoln.  You can also do a house tour.  

Butchertown Porktoberfest at Copper & Kings
Friday, 10/10 | 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Copper and Kings Distillery, 1111 E. Washington St
It's a celebration of fall and pork. The event features a cooking competition between local restaurants.  The event is free to enter but you buy tickets to sample the foods. There's also live music, local brews and cocktails.

Belknap Fall Festival
Friday, 10/10 | 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. &  Saturday 10/11| 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Douglass Loop
Food, live music, drinks and 50 artist vendors

Cylouvia in the Highlands
Sunday, 10/12 | 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Douglass Loop to East Broadway (3 miles)
Bring out your bikes, stroller, skates, pets and love ones for a stroll or ride right in the middle of hip and happening Bardstown Road.  The streets are close this day and you get the control of the road.  Great time to check out local eats, shops and make new friends. Stop by Comfy Cow on Eastern Parkway for some ice cream, grab an iceberg from 2 different Hiene Bros, and maybe check out some new restaurants, like El Camino, Joy Luck or El Luchador Tacos.

Kosair Charities Fall Fest 2014
Sunday, 10/12 | 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
982 Eastern Parkway
Not really in the Highlands, but close enough!  Come celebrate their 90th anniversary with music from every decade and the usually festival fares. The charity is all about kids so expect a lot of kids friendly activities.

The World's Largest Halloween Party at the Louisville Zoo
October 3-5, 9-12, 16-19, 23-26 & 30, 2014 | Starts at 5 p.m., last entry at 8:30 p.m.
$5 for members, $7.50 for non-members (available at Meijer stores only)
A fun Halloween party for the kids to dress up, trick-or-treat (11 and under), see pumpkin lanterns, take photos with fair tale characters and super heros.

South and Southwest

Jackolantern Spectacular
Thursday 10/9 - 11/2 | door opens at 6 p.m., show: 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Iroquois Amphitheater
$9 - $12
You'll be amazed at the 5,000 artistically carved pumpkins lighting up a darken 1/4 mil trail around Iroquois Park.  Beautiful work of art, you'll ooh and ahh all the way.

Southwest Community Festival at Sun Valley Park
Saturday, 10/11 | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
6505 Bethany Lane
$2/car
Tucked in the far corner of Dixie Highway is one of the largest community events in Louisville.  Expect live music, 100+ booths and vendors, a car and motorcycle show, free games and inflatables for kids and age specific tents.

West Louisville

Portland Art and Heritage Fair
Saturday, 10/12 | 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Various locations but navigate to 2215 Portland Ave.
A festival I'm personally interested in because it's a celebration of a historic city (it's older than Louisville) that many often neglect and afraid to venture to.  A lot of efforts are going into revitalizing the area and I'm excited to see how it'll transform Portland. Come see the Art Show at Historic Marine Hospital (the only surviving one in the entire nation), do crafts with Good Garbage, tour the Portland Locks, view the photography at Nelligan Hall, visit the Portland Museum and check out craft vendors at the new Tim Faulkner Gallery.

East Louisville

Tom Sawyer State Park Fall Fest
Saturday, 10/11 | 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.
E.P. Tom Sawyer State Park, 3000 Freys Hill Road
$5/parking
The event includes hayrides, bonfire and s'mores, music, a children's play area, pumpkin painting, arts and crafts, etc.

Fall Festival at Foxhollow Farm
Saturday, 10/11 | 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Foxhollow Farm, Crestwood, Ky
$5/parking
A fall festival at an actual farm, featuring live music, hayrides, pumpkins, carnival games, obstacle course, and farm fresh food.  The farm is really neat too so a great opportunity to check it out.

Out of Town

Harvest Homecoming Festival
10/4 - 10/12/2014 | 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. (time varies)
New Albany, Indiana; between State, Third, Main and Spring Street 
I've been hearing about this festival for a while and can't wait to check it out this week.  It's a huge festival and just across the river.  A celebration of Southern Indiana, this includes a week's worth of activities and events.  You can get a complete list from their website.  This week, 10/9/2014 is when the vendors, foods, and crafts booths will be out in full festival style.  Close to the river front, you can enjoy a car show, live music and a party tent.

LaGrange Railroad & Bluegrass Festival
Friday 10/10, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m & Saturday 10/11, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Courthouse Square, Langrange, Ky
The highlight of this festival are railroads related activities and lots of bluegrass bands.  Fun things to expect: a farmer's market, kiddie train rides, a cowboy gun fight, bluegrass workshops and of course food and vendors.

Bardstown's Arts, Crafts & Antique Fair
Sat 10/11: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. & Sunday 10/12: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Bardstown, KY
Southern food, music, entertainment and over 200 art and craft vendors in beautiful Bardstown, KY that's less than an hour away.

Weekend Plans - St. James and Harvest Festival

I've missed my deadline and goal to have Weekend Plans info out by Thursday night again! But here are a few things going on around town this weekend that are worth a look. Dress warm, it'll be a little cooler this weekend, especially in the morning and evening.

St. James Art Show
Friday- Sunday: 10/3, 10/4, 10/5 | Fri & Sat: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
1387 S. Fourth Street.  It covers 4 square blocks, between 3rd, 6th, Magnolia Ave., and
Belgravia Ct.

Fall would not be official without the influx of over 750 art vendors from around the U.S. to historic Old Louisville.  The event is great for art lovers, window shoppers, old Louisville enthusiast or anyone looking to for a nice stroll on the weekend.  You'll find handmade crafts, jewelries, photography, sculptures and everything in between.  The prices are a little pricey but many time you can find unique pieces for the homes and gifts for love ones. You can find some things as cheap as $5 or art pieces costing a few hundred.  Even if you don't plan to buy anything, it's a great event for a stroll and enjoy the beautiful Victorian houses.

The Conrad-Caldwell Kid's Crafting Zone
Friday - Sunday: 10/3-10/5, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
1402 St. James Ct. $ 
St. James might be fun for the kids for a little bit but after a few blocks they'll get bore quick! Head to the Conrad Caldwell House, also by St. James, for some kids friendly activities.  They include face painting, caricatures, pumpkin painting, and other crafting projects.  There's a cost involved, but they didn't list how much.

Un-Fair 2014
Friday - Sunday; 10/3 - 10/5
Behind Magnolia Bar, 1398 S. 2nd Street.
If you've been to St. James too many time and want something different.  Try the Un-Fair instead it's a smaller art fair that features local artists, music and booze.  I've never been but intend to check it out to see what it's all about.

The World's Largest Halloween Party at the Louisville Zoo
October 3-5, 9-12, 16-19, 23-26 & 30, 2014 | Starts at 5 p.m., last entry at 8:30 p.m.
$5 for members, $7.50 for non-members (available at Meijer stores only)
A fun Halloween party for the kids to dress up, trick-or-treat (11 and under), see pumpkin lanterns, take photos with fair tale characters and super heros.

ReSurfaced: Instrument of Hip Hop
Saturday, 10/4 | 3 p.m. - 11 p.m.
615 West Main Street
I recently found out about this pop-up plaza and it looks really neat.  The idea is to temporarily transform vacant lots into a pop-up beer garden, outdoor cafe, and event space for community gatherings, entertainment and other activities (yoga, movie night).  Abandon structures and buildings take away from the aesthetic of a growing city and could take years to develop.  ReSurfaced wants to show cheap and creative ways to use these spaces.  Events are planned 9/19 - 10/215 at the current abandon lot on Main.  Thursday - Sunday each week.  Instrument of  Hip Hop is tomorrow but check out their website for future events.

Louder than Life Festival
Sat & Sun, 10/4 - 10/5
2050 River Road
$64.50/day or $109.50 for two days
I usually don't include things that cost too much money but this event sounds cool.  Over 30 bands will be performing, including Kid Rock, Limp Bizkit, Judas Priest, etc.  The event will also feature gourmet fan food, craft beers, bourbon, camping, etc.

Harvest Homecoming Festival
10/4 - 10/12/2014 | 11:30 a.m.
New Albany, Indiana; between State, Third, Main and Spring Street (Around the bottom of the new Big Four Bridge). 
I've been hearing about this festival for a while and can't wait to check it out this week and next.  It's a celebration of Southern Indiana that includes a week's worth of activities and events.  You can get a complete list from their website.  But this weekend is the kick off with a parade at 11:30 a.m. and an idol audition (1736 E. Main Street at 3 p.m.)  If you're in the area tomorrow, check out the Schimpffs Candy Museum and grab lunch there. Next week, 10/9/2014 is when the vendors, foods, and crafts booths will be out in full festival style.

Weekend Plans – Starlight Ride, Spicy Festival and a Hipster Affair

This week was one of our most exhausting weeks yet.  Our weekdays started early and ran late into the night, leaving very little time for sleep and home.  So we resolved early on to have an easy weekend, but that somehow turned into another marathon of events.

Here are my picks for this weekend:

10th Annual Trolley Hop
9/26/2014 | 6 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Free Trolley rides on Frankfort Ave (from Cannons Ln to River Road)
You know it’s going to be good when there’s an anniversary celebration.  Special for this Trolley Hop is a FAT Friday photo challenge that'll get you discounts to stores and a chance to win a prize.  If you're not familiar with Trolley Hop, it's an event that allows people to hop on and hop off a free trolley to check out restaurants and shops on Frankfort Ave.  Many local businesses will offer discounts and host free tasting, refreshments, and live music.  Eyedia (1613 N. Mellwood Ave) is hosting a thank you party for councilwoman Tina Ward-Pugh, which will have free food, drinks and music.

Vinda Lou Festival
9/27/2014 | 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
The Belvedere (5th and Main)
Boasted as Louisville's spiciest festival in the area, this festival will showcase Indian cultures, food, clothes, jewelry, henna tattoos and entertainment.  We've never been and hoping to make it there to see the dances.   Indian dances are one of our favorites, they’re full of energy and color. An advice from an insider, go later in the evening, after 5:30 when things will pick up.

NuLu Festival
9/27/2014 | 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
700 & 800 Blocks of East Market St.
Head to NuLu this weekend for a street festival that includes food, beer, local vendors and music.  Nu Lu, meaning New Louisville, is that part of East Market where sustainable green buildings are realized and where hip and trendy restaurants/art galleries bring in regular crowds of foodie and hipster. Your inner hipster will rejoice at micro-brewed beer and food trucks and your friends will enjoy the festive atmosphere (and making fun of hipsters).

Starlight Ride.
9/28/2014 | 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
5, 25, 40 & 65 miles
Starlight Indiana
We’re packing our bikes and heading over to Starlight Indiana for a 40 mile ride in scenic back country roads.  The event costs $35 (late registration), which includes breakfast, coffee, and lunch.  A new event for us, we’re not really sure what to expect.  Biking is a great way to see the beautiful fall scenes at a slower pace and the sunny cool weather will make for a nice day out.

Weekend Plans - Country Loving

Fall in Cherokee Park

Fall already made its way to Kentucky, bringing with it cool evenings and patchy morning fog that shrouds the hills in mystery.  One of my favorite seasons, Fall in the Bluegrass State is an explosion of colors; bright yellow, orange, red and green paint the trees in a sea of colors.  The cool temperature is a jumpstart to the body, waking up your senses, turned languid by summer heat and humidity.

For me, Fall means lively festivals, pumpkin spiced everything, and an obligatory visit to the farm for the harvesting of apples and pumpkins.  

Huber's Farm

This Saturday (9/20/2014), I'll skip Huber's Farm and head instead to 12 local farms in Shelby County for their Shelby Good Neighbors Farm Tour. From 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., these local farms will open their doors to the public so we can experience first hand the day to day life of small farms.  It's a great opportunity to experience the county, taste the food, and connect to our farmers.  Start at the Metzger's Country Store or Shelby County Farmer's Market (8 a.m. - noon) and pick up a map of participating farms. Take a self guided tour to as many of those as you like, get stamps on your Passport and enter for a chance to win a grand prize filled with local goods.  I'm looking forward to seeing the alpacas, harvesting honey, tasting homemade ice cream, and making wine.  

I'll then head to Bardstown, one of the most beautiful small town in the U.S. (so they claimed), for the Kentucky Bourbon Festival (complete list of events).  The week long festival (9/16 - 9/21) is a celebration of Bourbon in Kentucky with famous distilleries offering special tours, events and glamourous parties.  Many of these cost money but worth it for the Bourbon lover.  I'll be skipping all the pricey stuff and head to the free arts, crafts and food booths (Spalding Hall and City Hall Lawns, 114 N. Fifth St.).  While here, I'll check out demonstrations of the ancient art of barrel making and the World Championship Bourbon Barrel Relay (300 W. Broadway, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.)

Other neat stuff going on this weekend that I'll have to skip:

Fossil bed at Falls of the Ohio

• Gaslight Festival (9/14 - 9/21) | 10434 Watterson Trail, 40299 | all day: Located in J-town, the festival is the 5th largest festival in the region, hosting 200,000+ visitors every year.  A celebration of the city and its business, the festival will have 150+ arts and craft vendors, delicious and unhealthy fair food, a balloon glow, a car show, parade, games and activities for kids.  There's no shortage of fun things to see and do, but be warned, it's crowded!  Bring comfortable shoes, you'll be walking and standing a lot.
• Hike and Canoe the Fossil Beds (9/20/2014 & 10/11) | 201 West Riverside Dr., Clarksville, IN | 9:30 a.m.  - 1 p.m.: Head to the Falls of the Ohio Interpretive Center for a free canoe and hike tour of the fossil beds. You'll kayak/canoe on falls and hike the fossil beds with your own free tour guide.  If you don't have a canoe, you can rent one.  If water is not not your thing then opt for the 3 1/2 hour hike of the fossil beds with an expert (9/20, 9/27, 10/4, 10/11) at 9 a.m. The Army Corps of Engineer lowered the water this month so a very large part of the fossil beds is exposed.  
• 200 Years on the River: (9/20 - 9/21) | 7410 Moorman Road, 40272 | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.: Another family friendly event for lovers of history, especially for those interested in 19th Century life around the Ohio River.  You'll delight in the  ladies dressed in pretty attires and gentlemen/officers in pretty manners. You'll meet Abraham Lincoln spinning tails, a black smith demonstrating his trade, and young kids going about their daily chores.  You can also tour the old house and gardens and interact with the volunteers while in characters. The kids will love digging and pretending to be archeologist.  On Sunday, there's an 1860s baseball game. $6/adult, $5/seniors, $3 kids. Special rates for family. 
• Other Fall Festivals: Check out this list of over 60 fall festivals going on in the area this season. 

Louisville Dragon Boat Festival

Take a trip to Asia this weekend....

Our team, Viet Speed, practicing on the river. Photo Source Courier Journal: Bryan Warren

A tradition thousands of years old is coming to Louisville for the first time! Dragon Boat Racing is a popular annual event in many Asian countries, bringing together villages in a festive environment of competition and celebration.   More than 20 teams, consisting of community groups, non-profits, and individuals, will be competing against each other on the scenic Ohio River this weekend.  Each team consists of 20 rowers, 1 steerer and 1 drummer.   You can expect to see a lot of team spirit and unique costumes. Some of the teams are using this opportunity to raise funds for their non-profits.

Co-sponsored by Crane House Asian Institute and Third Century, the Louisville Dragon Boat Festival is also a celebration of Asian Cultures.  The daylong celebration will be filled with cultural activities, arts and crafts, music, food vendors, and dancing.  Check below for a lis of events and activities.

Races will be going on all day.

source:www.louisvilledragonboat.com

 Come hungry, the following vendors will be there to feed your appetite:

• Small Bite Catering (Chinese-Zongzie)
• Charim (Korean)
• Mikado (Japanese and Korean)
• Banh Mi Hero (Vietnamese sandwiches)
• Cefiore Frozen Yogurt

There will be a lot of things to see and do, check out these neat activities:

• Henna (India), rangoli (ruchi), pottery, origami, Chinese opera mask, fabric design, lantern, good luck satchels, hackie sack (Korean and Chinese), calligraphy (Korean and Chinese), Mochisuki, traditional games, ping pong, Chinese painting, Chinese tea ceremony, Chinese jo-jo, etc. 

Location: Waterfront Park – Joe’s Crab Shack – 131 River Road (if you’re facing the river, the event will be to the right of Joe’s).
Date: Saturday, 9/13/2014
Time: 8 a.m.  – 5 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Parking: 1st and Witherspoon Garage, meter parking on the streets.  Or if you want free parking, park along River Road and the Park’s parking lots (you’ll just have to walk a little further, maybe bring a bike).

It'll be a beautiful cool and bright day on Saturday, so come and experience a little bit of Asia right in your own back yard.

Labor Day Weekend Festivities

It’s Labor Day Weekend and if you’re stuck staying in town, there are a lot of wonderful events going on that’ll keep you busy!  Here are two of my favorites:

WorldFest
An event near and dear to my heart, WorldFest is a four day celebration of the unique and diverse cultures in our fair city.  The event features a global village showcasing the various ethnic groups in Louisville.  Stop to talk to the representative of these communities and learn something new about your international neighbors.   Come say hi, I’ll be manning the Vietnam booth.  You can also sample international foods from local restaurants, buy unique international gifts from local businesses or swing and dance to international beats at the three stages.

Saturday is a unique experience, come at noon; claim a spot around fifth and main to see colorful displays of world fashion and peoples at the Parade of Cultures. If you want the action early on and a photo op, head over to Congress Alley (Behind Metro Hall on 6th and Jefferson) around 10:30 a.m., everyone is lined up there.

• Cost: Free
• Date and Time: Friday 8/29/2014 – Sunday 8/31: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Monday, 9/1 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Parking: Parking on the streets is free Sunday.  I usually park at the 6th street garage by Main.

Mayor’s Hike, Bike and Paddle
One of my favorite Labor Day activities! Repost: Every Memorial and Labor Day 10,000+ people get together to bike on closed of streets, hike the waterfront or paddle on the Ohio River.  Start your day early, from 8 a.m. – 10 a.m, various vendors provide free health information along with free t-shirts

(first 3,000), bike helmets (500 helmets), snacks and other goodies.  Bike doctors are available to service your bike, provide you with free lights and bell.  You can also participate in yoga, Zumba, and tai chi sessions.  The bike (15 miles), hike, and paddle starts at 10 a.m at Witherspoon and Preston (Waterfront Park).   I love the feeling of community as I ride alongside thousands of my Louisville neighbors and seeing my town on a slower pace. If you get back before 1 p.m., head straight to the marina by the Great Lawn to participate in the canoe demonstration by the guys at Jefferson Memorial Forest. It’s free and you get to canoe the Ohio River for ~20 minutes.

• Cost: Free
• Date and Time: 9/1, vendors open at 8:30 a.m. Bike, Hike and Paddle start: 10 a.m.
• Parking: All street parking are free this day.

 Here's a list of other activities going on around town at WDRB or Louisville.com

A Fair Filled Weekend

Old Louisville Spring Fest

It’s very exciting to see that there are a lot of things going on in the city! So I started a Calendar of Events to keep track of them all.  Check it out on the tab on top.  I love a bargain and free events, so the events listed will be heavier on those.  Still slowing adding events. Bad news though is that it’s not that great on mobile devices.  For a more comprehensive list, check out www.Louisville.com.

My ambitious plan this weekend (even though my husband prefers that I stay home and mulch)

1. Old Louisville Spring Fest| Friday & Saturday | 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.| Oak and 1st.
   Street fair in Old Louisville.  Crossing my fingers that my favorite soul food truck Da’ville Grill and Catering will be there with the best fried chicken in town.
2. Louisville Quest | Saturday | 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. | Visitor's Office, 4th and Jefferson
   Scavenger Hunt at area attractions, for free, and a cool official Louisville t-shirt at the end.  Last one is next Saturday.
3. Bardstown Bound: Saturday | Noon - whenever | Bardstown  Road
   Strolling down Bardstown Road should be more exciting today with sales and specials on merchandise, foods and drinks. Beer Fest at Valu Market for beer enthusiasts.  The trolley will also run 2 p.m. - 10 p.m.
4. St. Matthews Fair | Saturday | 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.| Frankfort Ave b/w Lexington Rd to Bauer Ave
   A street fair along Frankfort Ave featuring local attraction, business and entertainment.
5. Buy Local Fair | Suday | 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.| Water Tower | $5 to park
   Looking forward to the concerts, local vendors and iron-chef like competition between Rye and Decca.
6. Mulch :)

All these events are family friendly, with kids zones and all FREE.