May 17
Lafayette Festivities: Community Picnic & Outdoor Celebration
Join the Kentucky Historical Society in a public gathering from 12:30-3 p.m. May 17 reminiscent of the spirited celebrations held by Kentuckians in 1825, as the society honors America’s French hero, the illustrious Marquis de Lafayette. Bring along a basket lunch to savor on the picturesque grounds of the historic Old Capitol. Delight in enchanting carriage rides that evoke a sense of nostalgia, and witness a breathtaking demonstration of a Revolutionary War cannon, presented by the talented reenactors from Painted Stone Settlers. Tap your toes to the 202nd Army Band of the Kentucky National Guard and explore the Kentucky Historical Society’s remarkable collection of Lafayette artifacts.
June 7
Kentucky History Day
Kentucky History Day will take place from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 7 at the Old Capitol. Get ready to celebrate Kentucky’s 233rd birthday. The day will be packed with vibrant festivities that showcase the best of what makes our state extraordinary. Dive into the rich tapestry of Kentucky’s culture through a variety of activities that highlight our tourism, arts, heritage and history. Experience the heart and soul of Kentucky with captivating living history demonstrations, engaging performances and interactive exhibits that will transport you through time. This is more than just a celebration — it’s a sensory exploration of our identity. The event is free and open to the public.
June 8
Barn Raisin’ at Josephine Sculpture Park
Barn Raisin’: Conservation, Culture, and Cuisine brings together arts and nature enthusiasts for a night of community celebrating Josephine Sculpture Park (JSP). The event will be 4-8 p.m. June 8 at JSP, 3355 Lawrenceburg Road. Proceeds from the event support educational programming and land conservation at JSP, providing access to art and nature experiences for more than 130,000 people each year. Enjoy an intimate family-style four course dinner by Chef Carlie of True North Catering; sip a complementary beer or wine. A full cash bar is also provided. Listen to CornMaiz Stringband, a nouveau family string band of Kentucky musicians sharing the evolving traditions of Appalachia. Tickets cost $140 and can be purchased at https://www.josephinesculpturepark.org.
June 13
Celebrate Bourbon Week
Downtown Frankfort Inc.’s Bourbon Week will take place June 13-20 at bars and restaurants in downtown Frankfort. Get ready to immerse yourself in the spirit of Frankfort. Join DFI for a weeklong celebration of bourbon heritage, historic downtown charm and unforgettable experiences. Throughout the week, there will be a variety of bourbon-related experiences and products that showcase the best of what the area has to offer. Take part in special tours and activities that dive into Frankfort’s rich bourbon history and craftsmanship. There’s something for everyone. For more information, visit downtownfrankfort.com/bourbon-week.
June 13
Downtown Summer Concert Series
Jackson and the Janks will kick off Bourbon Week during the Downtown Summer Concert Series at 6:30 p.m. on June 13 on Broadway Street in downtown Frankfort. The evening will be filled with fantastic music and family fun, all in the heart of downtown Frankfort. For more information, visit www.downtownfrankfort.com.
June 14
Capital City Bourbon Ball Gala
The Simon House of Kentucky’s Board of Trustees has announced its inaugural Capital City Bourbon Ball Gala event taking place during National Bourbon Week on Saturday, June 14, at 6:30 p.m. at the Ashbrook Hotel in historic downtown Frankfort. The event will feature Buffalo Trace Distillery and a sampling of their bourbon collection paired with an assortment of savory and sweet Southern flavors created by The Ashbrook culinary team for the ultimate bourbon tasting experience. This one-of-a kind bourbon event also includes live music, a complimentary signature cocktail, a cash bar, a silent auction with bourbon-themed items and other items, and a special live auction featuring a rare whiskey offering and much more. Funds raised at the Capital City Bourbon Ball Gala will go directly to the mission of Simon House and will impact the homeless in the Frankfort community. Tickets for the event are $100 and are currently on sale at https://givebutter.com/bourbonballgalaSH.
June 25
The Great Race to pass through Frankfort
The Great Race will take place from 3-9 p.m. June 25 in downtown Frankfort. The Hemmings Motor News Great Race, presented by Coker Tire, is a nine-day classic car rally that spans more than 2,300 miles and features 120 of the world’s finest antique automobiles. The event features 17 city stops, including a hosted dinner stop in Frankfort. The annual event features a different route each year, offering a rare opportunity for residents and surrounding communities to see the spectacular cars and meet the drivers from all over the world. Each stop on the Great Race is free to the public and spectators will be able to visit with the participants and to look at the cars for several hours.
June 27
Zoe Howard to perform at Summer Concert Series
Zoe Howard will perform during the Downtown Summer Concert Series at 6:30 p.m. on June 27 on Broadway Street in downtown Frankfort. For more information, visit www.downtownfrankfort.com.
