Fundraising Events
CONNECT 2026
Wander around Lake Nevin for a luminous night of art, music, and nature!
Join us Saturday, August 15, from 6:36 to 11:36 p.m. for CONNECT, Bernheim Forest and Arboretum’s annual summer after-hours event.
CONNECT @ Bernheim
☀️ Bask in the glow of sunset in the forest and step into the night as it comes alive. 🌙
The Forest Transforms
How the Night Comes Alive
As daylight fades, the forest shifts into a different rhythm. For one night, you are invited to gather at the intersection of art, music, and nature along a glowing 1.3-mile loop of installations and live experiences!
From activated art and musical performances to hands-on exploration, the natural world awakens during CONNECT in unexpected ways, sparking curiosity, reflection, and discovery. Enjoy live performances from six local bands at the Sunset Amphitheater and Garden Pavilion.
Along Lake Nevin Loop
Enchanting Experiences
Spontaneous Art
Nature & Other Activities
Music @ CONNECT
2026 Featured Bands
Roadie
Mama Said String Band
Angel 004
Villa Mure
Brooks Ritter
Second Story Man
THE FOREST GETS EXPRESSIVE
Art @ CONNECT
Spontaneous art activates the 1.3-mile loop through performances, light and sound installations, and live demonstrations, inviting both local creatives and visitors to help shape what emerges throughout the evening!
2026 FEATURED CREATIVES
Chad Nanna • Ambo Dance Theatre • Leah Bomar • Dawn Bunch • Chenoa Works • Janet Drake • Linda Erzinger • Field Guide for Dreamers • Elizabeth Haigh • Haigh and Harvey • Scarpetta • Benjamin Maddox • Thaniel Ion Lee and Elle W Hendrickson • Kris Thompson • Kyle Rodgers • Lapis Lasers
Dance the Night Away
Music @ CONNECT
Louisville Silent Disco runs throughout the event, letting you switch up the soundtrack as you dance the night away with Forest Giant, Little Elina.
The Forest Get Curious
Activities @ CONNECT
Playful, hands-on, and exploratory moments are tucked along the path, ready to be discovered as you wander.
Nature-Based Play Zones: Bubble zones, free play areas, and interactive spaces designed for open exploration.
Discovery Stations: Interactive nature interpretation with Volunteer Naturalists.
Astronomy Alley: Community partners offering telescope viewing and insights into dark skies.
Connect @ Bernheim
Discover the enchanting intersection of art, music, science, & nature!
Fuel + Sip Around the Lake
Food & Beverage
Enjoy food and beverage offerings from local vendors located near the Sunset Amphitheater and Garden Pavilion entrances.
Food Vendors
Celtic Pig • The Cooking Leprechaun • Exotic Bowls • JB’s Mac-n-Cheese & Spuds • Mr. Beans Kettle Corn • Mo Mo’s Catering • Old School Flavor Trailer • Oh My Lollies • Pardue Catering • Surreal Creme Ice Cream
🌿 – Vegetarian/Vegan options
Drink Vendors (Non-alcoholic and Alcoholic)
Heaven Hill Distillery • West Sixth Brewing • Salt River Brewing Co.
Elevate Your Evening
James B. Beam Forest Lounge
Giving Circles Members enjoy an elevated CONNECT experience with premium seating, catered hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and opportunities to connect with participating artists and creatives.
Call our Membership Desk at (502) 215-7155 to join Giving Circles or learn more.
Get Ready to CONNECT on August 15, 2026
Bernheim members $25; Non-members $30; Youth (10 & under) Free
Event Sponsors
