Thunder Over Louisville 2025 Canceled for First Time Ever Due to Historic Flooding
In an unprecedented decision, Thunder Over Louisville, one of the nation's most iconic air and fireworks shows, has been canceled for the first time ever due to weather. The announcement was made during a press conference on Saturday by Kentucky Derby Festival President Matt Gibson and Mayor Craig Greenberg, citing severe flooding and public safety concerns as the primary reasons.
A Historic First for Thunder
Thunder Over Louisville, which was scheduled for Saturday, April 12, has dazzled crowds for decades as the official kickoff to the Kentucky Derby Festival. Drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators each year to the Louisville Waterfront, the event is known for its massive fireworks display, exhilarating air show, and patriotic celebration.
But this year, nature had other plans.
“This weather event and flooding is like nothing we’ve faced before – especially this close to Thunder,” said Gibson. “We know it’s not logistically possible and would not be safe to do so.”
Why Was Thunder Canceled?
In the days leading up to the event, Louisville experienced historic rainfall, resulting in dangerous flood levels. The Ohio River and surrounding waterfront areas—including Waterfront Park, a prime viewing location—are now under threat of submersion.
The Kentucky Derby Festival (KDF) confirmed that:
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The riverfront venue will be under water by midweek.
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Critical infrastructure for staging Thunder will not be accessible.
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Cleanup from recent storms is still ongoing, further complicating preparations.
Safety for attendees, staff, and partners was paramount in the decision to cancel.
Can It Be Rescheduled?
Unfortunately, no. Due to Thunder’s scale and the complex coordination with local, state, and federal partners, it cannot be postponed.
Gibson emphasized:
“Thunder is a massive logistical undertaking, and there simply isn't another date where everything can come together.”
This marks only the second time in history that Thunder Over Louisville has been canceled—the first was in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Kentucky Derby Festival Marches On
Despite this major setback, the rest of the Kentucky Derby Festival is still on! Over 70 events are planned leading up to Derby Day, including the They’re Off! Luncheon on Friday and popular events like the Balloon Glow, Pegasus Parade, and Chow Wagon.
“Our mission is to bring the community together in celebration—and that is still our plan,” Gibson assured.
Louisville’s Spirit Remains Strong
While fans of Thunder may be disappointed, the spirit of community and celebration continues in Louisville. Locals are encouraged to support other KDF events, which remain scheduled and promise to uphold the Derby tradition in the weeks to come.
As the city navigates cleanup efforts and keeps an eye on weather developments, one thing is clear: Louisville will rise above the water—and keep the Derby magic alive.
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