CONNECT at Bernheim

By Lynette Cox

Celebrate live music, art, science and nature at CONNECT on August 17

The anticipated annual event, CONNECT, returns on August 17 from 5:33 to 11:33 p.m. This enchanting event highlights the convergence of art, science, and nature, promising a unique experience for attendees at the picturesque Lake Nevin.

Prepare for an evening with live music, interactive art, and hands-on activities. Explore must-see features such as spontaneous art, mesmerizing light sculptures, and musical performances by six renowned local artists and bands. Engage in interactive art and science activities designed to charm guests of all ages.

Musical Performances at CONNECT

This year, CONNECT will feature musical performances by six renowned local artists and bands on two stages. For 2024, a second stage has been added at the Garden Pavilion.

Kiana & The Sun Kings are headlining the main stage at CONNECT. Formed in 2017, the Louisville group mixes elements of R&B and soul with their jazz roots. The band released its first EP, Chrysalis, in 2017 and performed locally, across the Midwest and beyond.

Lacey Guthrie will open. Guthrie is currently touring with Strand of Oaks. She has played multiple festivals, including The Big Stomp, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, Austin City Limits Music Festival, and more.

Jameron is a six-piece alternative, funk, and soul group. The group released an EP titled, Venture in 2020 and has been playing venues in Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee this summer.

Songwriter and comedian, Howell Dawdy has performed nationwide and released six albums, including I Need Some Help in June. He co-hosts the Big Howell and Possum Radio Hour on 91.9 FM WFPK every Monday at 10 pm. Dawdy will perform on the Garden Pavilion stage.

Tsunami Samurai will bring its fun and memorable 60’s style dance party to CONNECT. The group features ripples of surf rock, spaghetti western, spy, rockabilly, and countless other genres.

Headlining the Garden Pavilion stage will be Phourist & the Photons. The Louisville band released the EP, Citizen Celestial in January. They have played Waterfront Park in Louisville multiple times, toured nationwide, and played at the Bourbon and Beyond Festival in 2023. In 2022, the group won the Appalachian Arts and Entertainment Award for Best Pop and was nominated for a Louisville Music Award in 2017.

Other Activities at CONNECT

Experience the magical ambiance of the forest at sunset and immerse yourself in various unique activities throughout the day and evening. Treat your taste buds to a selection of delights from local food trucks and wine, beer, and bourbon vendors.

• Be inspired by art exhibitions as your stroll around Lake Nevin.
• Take part in Silent Disco and dance to your beat.
• Discover planets and stars with Starpointe Astronomy.
• Bubble Zone delights guests of all ages.

Event Sponsors

CONNECT at Bernheim is made possible through the generous support of Forest Lounge Sponsor, James B. Beam Distilling Co., Presenting Sponsor, Heaven Hill Distillery and Supporting Sponsors, Sterling Thompson Company, McBrayer PLLC, Wilson & Muir Bank & Trust Co., Deckle and Moneypenny, VIA Studio, and Louisville Public Media.

Forest Lounge Access is available for Giving Circles Members. It includes premium concert seating, catered hors d’oeuvres, James B Beam Distilling Co. cocktails, an artist meet-and-greet, and an elevated event experience. Learn more about Bernheim Membership at bernheim.org.

Ticket Information:

• Advance tickets: $10 for Bernheim members, $15 for non-members (available until August 16)
• Day-of tickets: $15 for Bernheim members, $20 for non-members
• Children aged 13 and under enter for free

Join us for an extraordinary night of art, music, and discovery at CONNECT at Bernheim on August 17. For more information and ticket purchases, visit the CONNECT at Bernheim Event at bernheim.org.

About Bernheim Forest and Arboretum

Bernheim’s mission is to connect people with nature. At over 16,000 acres, the largest privately held contiguous forest block in the eastern United States is dedicated to conservation and education. Bourbon maker Isaac Wolfe Bernheim established the forest and arboretum in 1929 as a gift to the people of Kentucky. Fun, educational programs, diverse tree collections, renowned art experiences, 40 miles of hiking trails, and varied landscapes host over 229 bird species, available every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. A $15 per car donation is suggested for non-members. For more information about Bernheim, visit https://bernheim.org/. Follow us on social: Facebook @bernheimforest, Instagram @BernheimForest and YouTube: @BernheimForest.

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