Held Saturday, April 18th, 2026, Thunder Over Louisville is BACK after last year’s cancellation due to high water on the Ohio River. Touted as one of North America’s largest fireworks displays and a top-five airshow that kicks off the Kentucky Derby Festival. The 30-minute choreographed fireworks display theme this year will honor America’s 250th Anniversary.
Held at Louisville’s Waterfront Park, the festival includes all-day air acts and is planning another packed air show featuring both military and civilian aircraft.
One of the highlights is the U.S. Air Force Viper Demo. Guests can also expect flybys by multiple fighters, including the F-15, F-16 and F/A-18s from the United States Marine Corps, The V-22 Osprey makes a return this year, along with America’s newest frontline fighter, the F-35C. A special tactics demonstration featuring integration with the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade (Kentucky Army National Guard) and 123rd Special Tactics Squadron (Kentucky Air National Guard) is also planned for the 2026 show.
After all the excitement, return to Wildflower Ranch Inn’s peaceful setting. Our sunrise to sunset 360
