By Lynette Cox
CONNECT at Bernheim is Saturday, August 15
Six local bands will perform at the annual evening arts event
CONNECT at Bernheim returns on Saturday, August 15 from 6:36 until 11:36 p.m. CONNECT fills the forest with art, music, and nature! Held around Lake Nevin at Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, this enchanting evening will include interactive art, hands-on activities, and live performances by six local bands on two stages.
A unique musical lineup, representing multiple genres, will have attendees dancing under the stars to their distinctive sounds and energetic performances. Kicking off the evening at the Garden Pavilion Stage at 7 pm. with a soulful mix of bluegrass, alternative, and indie rock will be Brooks Ritter. At 8:30 p.m. Mama Said String Band will bring their own brand of bluegrass featuring vocal harmonies and contemporary instrumentation. The four-piece ensemble was awarded “Bluegrass Artist of the Year” at the Lexington Music Awards in 2024 and 2025. The final act on the Garden Pavilion Stage will be Second Story Man, a long-time favorite on the Louisville music scene.
Across Lake Nevin at the Sunset Amphitheater, Villa Mure will open the stage at 7:30 p.m. with their progressive rock style, featuring textural guitar work, melodic bass, and vocal harmonies. At 9 p.m. Roadie takes the stage with a groovy, psychedelic vibe that has taken them around the world to perform. At 10:30 p.m., Angel 004, a Kentucky-born Korean-American electronic pop artist, DJ, and producer will close out the night. Blending ethereal vocals, experimental production, and live electronic harp, she creates immersive performances that blur the lines between concert, artistry, and deep lyricism.
“This unique lineup promises an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts and supporters of the local arts scene. Each act will showcase their distinctive sounds and delight the crowd with energetic performances,” stated Ida Brown, Event Coordinator at Bernheim Forest and Arboretum.
Spontaneous Art and Mesmerizing Experiences Abound
Spontaneous art and mesmerizing light sculptures will be a highlight at CONNECT. The event showcases a fusion of creativity and brings together artists and creatives for a one-of-a-kind experience. Bold, interactive installations will transform the 1.3-mile Lake Nevin Loop into a vibrant, illuminated trail.
“From dazzling illuminated sculptures to spontaneous bursts of dance, CONNECT celebrates the wild, wonderful power of art to spark curiosity, stir emotion, and deepen our connections to nature,” said Jenny Zeller, Arts in Nature Curator at Bernheim. “CONNECT truly highlights our regional creative community and these experiences don’t just compliment the event, they amplify its magic!”
Plenty of fun, unique family activities will also be featured at CONNECT. Louisville Silent Disco is back this year, setting the groove near Little Elina, one of the beloved Forest Giants. Participants will wear wireless headphones to control volume and music selection, creating an unforgettable dance experience.
When night falls, Lapis Lasers will light up Lake Nevin and delight the crowd with an unforgettable laser light show. Attendees will also enjoy nature discovery stations, food trucks, craft beer, bourbon, and more.
Event Sponsors
CONNECT at Bernheim is made possible through the generous support of Forest Lounge Sponsor, the James B. Beam Distilling Co., Sunset Sponsor, Heaven Hill Brands, Starry Sky Sponsor Wilson & Muir Bank and Trust Co., and Sterling Thompson Co. Bernheim is also grateful for the support of in-kind sponsors Louisville Public Media, Modica, and Unlimited Mobility.
Ticket Information:
- Advance tickets: $25 for Bernheim members, $30 for non-members
- Day-of tickets will be available for purchase at the gate and online
- Children aged 10 and under enter for free
Join us for an extraordinary night of art, music, and discovery at CONNECT at Bernheim on Saturday, August 15. For more information and ticket purchases, visit bernhem.org/connect.
