NuLu Fest, one of Louisville’s favorite neighborhood celebrations, returns Saturday, September 19, for its 16th year, inviting residents and visitors to experience the creativity, culture and community that have helped shape the NuLu neighborhood.
From 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., the 600–900 blocks of E, Market Street will come alive with live music, local art, food, drinks, shopping and activities for all ages. The annual festival celebrates the continued growth and revitalization of NuLu while highlighting the locally owned businesses, artists, makers and entrepreneurs who make the neighborhood unique.
“NuLu Fest is a celebration of the neighborhood, art, and the people who have helped make NuLu what it is today,” said Katie Meinhart, President of the NuLu Business Association. “It’s a great opportunity to spend the day exploring Market Street, supporting our businesses and enjoying everything NuLu has to offer.”
As a free and family-friendly event, NuLu Fest offers something for everyone, whether visitors come for the music, shopping, food and drinks or simply to experience one of Louisville’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Festival-goers can stroll through the neighborhood and browse local and regional vendors offering handcrafted goods, art, food and more.
New this year: Live music presented by The Monarch Music & Arts Community, featuring, Paul McDonald & The Mourning Doves, an Alabama native who first gained attention with roots-rock band the Grand Magnolias. His new album, So Long to the Dark Side, blends gospel, Americana and rock. The album marks a bold new chapter for McDonald, who earned buzz as a standout performer at the 2026 30A Songwriters Festival. The band is touring nationwide throughout 2026.
Other musical acts include Louisville-based synth-pop trio MODISTE, who blends vintage 1980s–90s analog and digital instruments into a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. MODISTE recently released its highly anticipated debut album, Nothing More Than A Machine. School of Rock, The Monarch Jazz Jam led by Jon Anthony Floyd-Jackson, and The Monarch Bluegrass Jam Session led by Paul Colon and world-class bluegrass pickers, will also take the stage at NuLu Fest.
Attendees can also enjoy regional craft beer, bourbon, wine and cocktails, along with food and drink options from businesses throughout the district. Many NuLu shops, restaurants and businesses will offer special sales, promotions and activities during the festival, encouraging visitors to explore beyond the festival footprint.
NuLu has become a nationally recognized urban neighborhood known for its mix of art galleries, specialty boutiques, restaurants, bars and locally owned businesses. The district blends historic architecture with Louisville’s creative culture, making it a natural setting for a festival centered on local art, food, shopping and community.
Event Details:
- NuLu Fest
- Saturday, September 19, 2026
- 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
- 600–900 blocks of East Market Street
- Free and open to the public
Free weekend street parking is available on several nearby side streets, with paid surface lots also available throughout the neighborhood. Visitors parking at metered spaces should check signage and meters before leaving their vehicles.
NuLu Fest would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous support: AC Hotels Louisville Downtown, Alani Nu, Ale-8 One, Angel’s Envy, Cardinal Moving, Commonwealth Eye Surgery, Leafguard, Louisville Downtown Partnership, Mad City Windows & Bath, Renewal By Andersen, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.
For more information about NuLu Fest visit nulu.org/nulu-fest and follow on Instagram at instagram.com/nuluofficial and on Facebook at facebook.com/nuluofficial.
