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Home / Stories / Celebrating 8 Years of Thunder Over Louisville with Michaelis Events

Celebrating 8 Years of Thunder Over Louisville with Michaelis Events

When it comes to special events in Louisville, few are as iconic as Thunder Over Louisville. As part of the Kentucky Derby Festival, this annual spectacle kicks off the excitement leading up to the Kentucky Derby and draws thousands of locals and tourists alike to the heart of Louisville, KY. For the eighth consecutive year, Michaelis Events had the honor of partnering with the Kentucky Derby Festival to help bring the magic to life. From the roaring airshow to the breathtaking fireworks over the Ohio River, Thunder Over Louisville is a cornerstone of Louisville tourism—and behind the scenes, Michaelis Events played a key role in creating unforgettable experiences.

Catering Excellence for Thousands

One of the largest and most anticipated corporate events of the season is the Thunder Over Louisville VIP Party, hosted on top of the Waterside Garage. This open-air event, tented and perfectly positioned for stunning views of the show, welcomed over 2,000 guests.

Michaelis Events delivered full-service hospitality, starting with afternoon snacks like artfully curated Charcuterie Boards, Chips and Salsa, and Cheese and Cracker Displays. As the day progressed, guests enjoyed a buffet-style dinner, with menus designed to reflect both taste and local pride.

In recent years, we’ve featured:

  • A BBQ Buffet showcasing locally sourced, Kentucky Proud ingredients.
  • A Build-Your-Own Taco Bar with a variety of meats, toppings, and sides.

 

No Thunder celebration would be complete without a sweet ending. Our dessert stations highlighted regional favorites like Derby Pie, Sorghum Cookies, and assorted treats to satisfy every palate. And for a late-night snack? Guests refueled with hot dogs and bratwursts, keeping the energy alive well into the evening.

Full Bar & Beverage Service

Of course, every great celebration needs a toast. Michaelis Events provided full bar service, offering a wide selection of beer, wine, mixed drinks, and specialty cocktails tailored to the event. For non-alcoholic options, self-serve tea, water, and lemonade stations were placed throughout the venue for easy access and hydration.

Blue circle stencil marking designated space for event staff jobs at a Louisville, KY event—part of organized staffing operations by Michaelis Events.
Blue circle stencil marking designated space for event staff jobs at a Louisville, KY event—part of organized staffing operations by Michaelis Events.

Beyond Thunder: Supporting the Entire Festival

Our partnership with the Kentucky Derby Festival goes beyond just Thunder. Michaelis Events also provides catering, bar, and décor services for a variety of other festival highlights, including:

  • Corporate tents
  • Ticketed public events
  • The Louisville Mini Marathon
  • The Tour de Lou Bike Race

 

As Louisville, KY gears up for another year of thrilling Kentucky Derby Festival events, Michaelis Events is proud to continue setting the standard for special events in Louisville. Plan Your

 

Next Event with Michaelis

Whether you’re organizing a large-scale corporate gathering or an intimate celebration, trust the team with a proven track record at some of the city’s most prestigious events. Let Michaelis Events bring creativity, flavor, and flawless execution to your next event.