As usual, fall in Louisville boasts a festive lineup of activities against the backdrop of colorful leaves and beautiful temperatures. Maybe it’s because I’m local, but I’ve always thought autumn suits our city particularly well. Warm colors frame the dramatic silhouettes of Old Louisville as if it were right out of a storybook. In honor of that mystical aesthetic, many of this year’s must-see fall events take place in Old Louisville, famous (or a bit infamous) as one of America’s most haunted neighborhoods. Bellarmine communication major Cheyenne Grogean shares her top picks for fall activities in the city.
#5: Downtown Drive-In at Waterfront Park
A movie under the stars with the Ohio River winding in the distance is the kind of scene you’d only find at Waterfront Park, and the best part? It’s free. A showing of Ghostbusters on October 10th marks the end of their drive-in theater season, so pack up your family (dogs included!), grab a few blankets, and snag a spot on the lawn while you can.
The movie starts at 7 p.m. at the Brown-Forman Amphitheater, so head over early to beat the crowd and buy snacks and drinks courtesy of Ten20 Craft Brewery. You can find more info here.
#4: Halloween on Hillcrest
Decorating for the season isn’t a trait unique to Louisville, but it’s hard to imagine anything topping the fervor of Halloween on Hillcrest. The entire neighborhood comes to life on October evenings, with yards that straight out of a movie set and houses that look sponsored by Spirit Halloween. If October is a preview, then Halloween night is the finale; whether you walk through for the ambiance with friends or take kids trick-or-treating, this street in Old Louisville is always an experience.
There isn’t an official website, but you can check out their Facebook page for information on street access, free tickets, and residential guidelines.
#3: Cave Hill Cemetery
Heading to the graveyard might not sound like a typical fun fall activity, but Cave Hill Cemetery is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places to visit as the seasons change. The landscaping alone is striking with the warm tones of autumn, and the wildlife flittering about the gothic headstones brings life to the eerie calm.
Only a five-minute drive from Bellarmine, Cave Hill is the perfect spot for a quiet walk or a guided tour. But remember to be respectful, as this is still an active cemetery. You can find information on tours here and visitor rules here.
#2: Victorian Ghost Walk
Old Louisville holds true to its title when the annual Victorian Ghost Walk rolls around; described as “part tour, part porch play,” this event resurrects the stories of infamous locals with a live cast performing on the steps of historic homes. Our everyday neighborhoods become relics of the past with this immersive show.
The event will be held on October 17th, 18th, and 19th of this year, so if you want to see the sinister side of Louisville’s history this spooky season, you can get tickets for $35 here.
#1: Jack O’Lantern Spectacular
The Jack O’Lantern Spectacular at Iroquois Park is one of Louisville’s most popular events leading up to Halloween – if you haven’t been to it, you’ve heard of it. The sheer number of pumpkins lighting the trail is mind-boggling enough, with some carved so artfully that it gives Michelangelo a run for his money. Everything from the music to the craftsmanship of this event is the epitome of Halloween spirit, so grab a jacket and a buddy and get lost in the pumpkins together.
The event is held throughout October, so there’s plenty of time to go. Ticket prices and additional information can be found here.
Whether you're a cozy, fairytale autumn fan or a thrill seeker for Halloween, there’s something for you. Fall looks good on Louisville, so get out into the community and appreciate it while it’s here.