Waterfront Wednesday is back! Here's the lineup for the 2023 free Louisville concert series
Louisville's favorite free outdoor concert series, WFPK's Waterfront Wednesday, returns for its six-month run in April.
The monthly concert series held on the banks of the Ohio River is a summertime tradition that draws thousands to Waterfront Park for an evening of music and family-friendly fun.
This season's headliners include The Hold Steady, Steven Page of Barenaked Ladies, Charley Crockett, Durand Jones, and Back 2 Mac with more artists to be announced.
Waterfront Park and WFPK first partnered in 2002 to produce this innovative free concert series that showcases local and emerging national recording artists as heard on radio station 91.9 WFPK. Each month, the free concert draws thousands to the banks of the Ohio River to enjoy music in a family-friendly park atmosphere with a cash bar, local food trucks, and upscale festival fare.
Additional artists performing during the free 2023 series are Ruen Brothers, Sunny War, Bibelhauser Brothers, Turbo Nut, Supreme Beings of Leisure, Producing A Kind Generation, Jameron, Darlingside, Anemic Royalty, Sheryl Rouse Band, and Sweet G & The Shine.
New this year, Louisville Public Media is adding an area to the event space where kids and families can enjoy hands-on activities during the event. Waterfront KidsDay will be open from 5-8 p.m. during each month’s show.
Additionally, one lucky concertgoer will win a Super Fan Package for the series which includes a reserved parking space at each of the 2023 shows, backstage access and event swag. Find additional information on the contest at lpm.org.
"We’re thrilled to bring exciting new features to this iconic concert to help celebrate its 21st birthday," said Stephen George, president and CEO of Louisville Public Media. "We look forward to celebrating with our community this season."
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This season, WFPK Waterfront Wednesday will coincide with the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge.
"Waterfront Park is excited to once again host WFPK Waterfront Wednesdays," said Deborah Bilitski, executive director of Waterfront Park, said. "As we celebrate 10 years of bringing people together with the Big Four Bridge, we cannot think of a more perfect backdrop for this series that allows everyone in our community to come together in celebration of music.”
Here's what you need to know about the 2023 series of WFPK Waterfront Wednesday:
Where is Waterfront Wednesday held?
The free concerts take place on the Big Four Lawn in Louisville's Waterfront Park, located next to the Big Four Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge.
When is the free concert series held?
Waterfront Wednesday will be the last Wednesday of the month from April through September. The shows open at 5 p.m., with music beginning promptly at 6 p.m.
What is the 2023 WFPK Waterfront Wednesday concert lineup?
April 26: Durand Jones, Ruen Brothers, and Producing A Kind Generation
May 31: Charley Crockett, Sunny War, and Bibelhauser Brothers
June 28: The Hold Steady, The Watson Twins and Turbo Nut
July 26: Steven Page of Barenaked Ladies, Supreme Beings of Leisure and Jameron
Aug. 30: Caroline Rose, Darlingside and Anemic Royalty
Sept. 27: Back 2 Mac, Sheryl Rouse Band, and Sweet G & The Shine
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How do I keep up to date on performers added to the lineup?
Listen to 91.9 WFPK or check its website and Facebook page.
Can I watch the Waterfront Wednesday concerts from the Big Four Bridge?
Absolutely! It’s a great place to listen and has a beautiful view. Be sure to tag any of your photos on social media #wfpk and #waterfrontwednesday.
Which bands have played WFPK's Waterfront Wednesday in the past?
Previous acts include The Avett Brothers, Old Crow Medicine Show, My Morning Jacket, Over the Rhine, Joan Osborne, Todd Snider, Iron and Wine, The Mavericks and many others.
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Do I need a ticket to attend WFPK's Waterfront Wednesday?
Waterfront Wednesday is the best entertainment deal in Louisville — it is free to attend and no ticket is needed.
What can I bring to Waterfront Park and what do I need to leave at home?
Bring a blanket or folding chair and bug spray to the venue. Although this is an outdoor event, pets are not allowed at the concert site. Other items not allowed include outside alcohol, coolers, and glass items.
Is there handicapped-accessible parking at Waterfront Wednesday?
All of Waterfront Park's parking lots (green, orange, Lincoln, silver, tan, red, and turquoise) offer four to six handicapped-accessible parking spaces. The red lot is closest to the Big Four Lawn, but is used for production, and is usually full by 5 p.m. If you desire, you can have someone pull in and drop you at the entrance to the red (production) lot, then find another place to park.
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What happens if it rains (or snows) on a concert date?
Waterfront Wednesday is a rain-or-shine event, and it is typically beautiful weather on these dates. But occasionally, especially heavy rain or lightning has caused WFPK and Waterfront Park to run on a delayed schedule, and in the event of a particularly bad storm, cancel.
Reach features reporter Kirby Adams at kadams@courier-journal.com.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Waterfront Wednesday's lineup is out for 2023: What to know
