As we head into November and the start of the holiday season, there are many events to look forward to in Louisville. From a virtual 5K turkey trot to holiday light drive-throughs, there is so much happening this November that you simply can’t miss. Here are 12 events we are looking forward to in Louisville this November!

It’s not Thanksgiving without a turkey-themed 5K! Image: Louisville Hungry Turkey 5K
12 Louisville Events & Happenings: November 2020
Through December 31, 2020: COVID-Classics
If you love classical plays, make sure to catch a performance of COVID-Classics this November. Performances include works from playwrights like Anton Chekhov, Luigi Pirandello and August Strindberg. Hosted by the Actors Theatre of Lousiville, tickets for these one-act virtual plays are on a pay-what-you-can basis, starting at $15. actorstheatre.org
Through April 21, 2021: Truth Be Told: The Policies That Impacted Black Lives
Every Wednesday through Sunday, the Muhammad Ali Center hosts Truth Be Told: The Policies That Impacted Black Lives, an exhibit that explores the policies linked to systemic racism in America. Learn the truth about the policies that have impacted Black people from the early 1600s to present day, and be encouraged to share what you learn with others. Access to the exhibit is included with general admission tickets, which are $14 for adults. alicenter.org
November 5, 12 & 19, 2020: Bourbon and Bridles Tour
While the 2020 Kentucky Derby has come and gone, check out the Bourbon and Bridles Tour at the Kentucky Derby Museum on November 5, 12 and 19. In this one-hour tour, visitors learn the unique history of bourbon and horse racing and how they are connected. Tickets are $75 per person, and in addition to the tour, attendees also receive a special themed gift bag. If you love bourbon and the Kentucky Derby, this is an event you don’t want to miss. derbymuseum.org
November 6 – 15, 2020: Merridian Home Furnishings’ Anniversary Sale
Merridian Home Furnishings’ anniversary sale is bigger than ever this year because it’s so important to Love Where You Live. Running from November 6 through 15, everything in the store is reduced up to 60% off — including new inventory! Shop and save on Merridian’s unique furniture and accessories from around the world. Store hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. merridian.com
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November 12, 2020: Bourbon & Bubbles
Head to Brasserie Provence on November 12 at 6 p.m. for an evening filled with delicious food and spirits. Bourbon & Bubbles, a celebration presented by Bourbon Women, provides attendees with specialty cocktails, sparkling wine and Basil Hayden’s bourbon, and small plates. Tickets are $75 for Bourbon Women members and $85 for non-members. bourbonwomen.org
November 12, 2020: Annual Wine Dinner at Savor at River House to Benefit UP for Women & Children
Looking to enjoy a date night or girls’ night out while supporting a good cause? UP for Women & Children, a nonprofit helping women and children experiencing homelessness, hosts its annual wine dinner on November 12 at 6 p.m. at Savor at River House. Enjoy a delicious dinner from James Beard Award-winning Chef John Varanese while learning about the meal’s wine pairings from certified Sommelier Erica Outlaw. Tickets for this event are $85. eventbrite.com
November 13, 2020 – January 3, 2021: Lights Under Louisville 2020
To get in the holiday spirit, be sure to visit Lights Under Louisville to experience the only underground holiday light show in the world. This event is COVID-friendly and includes a 30-minute drive through 17 miles of twinkling lights. Tickets start at $29.99 per vehicle. Event hours are weekdays, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and weekends, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. lightsunderlouisville.com
November 19, 2020: 9th Annual Anchal Holiday Trunk Show
Get a jump start on your holiday shopping at the 9th Annual Anchal Holiday Trunk Show. During this event, you can shop Anchal’s newest collection of home goods, fashion, accessories and more. Beginning at 10 a.m. on November 19, this year’s event features both in-person and virtual shopping appointments for $20. anchalproject.org
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November 20, 2020 – January 3, 2021: Winter Illuminations
Enjoy this holiday season with Louisville’s newest light attraction. The Winter Illuminations Trail Walk is a one-mile trail featuring over 10 different light installations. This night-time stroll is perfect for the family or a date night. Winter Illuminations is open Wednesday through Friday, 5:45 p.m. to 9 pm. Tickets are $12.99 for children (ages 3 to 12) and $19.99 for adults (ages 13 and up), and they are sold in time slots. winterilluminationsky.com
November 26 – 29, 2020: Hungry Turkey 5K
It’s not Thanksgiving without an annual turkey run. This year, the Louisville Hungry Turkey 5K is a virtual event. From November 26 through 29, run a course of your choice at your own pace. Participants receive a finisher’s certificate and commemorative event gear. Registration fees for kids start at $14.99, and adult fees start at $29.99. kentuckyruns.com
November 27, 2020 – January 2, 2021: Winter Woods Spectacular
The Winter Woods Spectacular is the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit. This event is a half-mile drive in Iroquois Park filled with holiday-themed lights and artistry. Early bird tickets (through November 2) start at $35 per car, and proceeds benefit The Louisville Parks Foundation. Hours are Sunday through Thursday, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. winterwoodsspectacular.org
November 28, 2020: Yummy Plant-Based Holiday Treats
Who knew holiday treats could be delicious and nutritious? On November 28, Waterfront Botanical Gardens teaches individuals how to make plant-based hot cocoa this holiday season. The virtual class is led by wellness blogger Helene Kusman. Tickets are $13 for garden members and $16 for non-members. If you’re interested in this event but unable to attend, you can still sign up to receive a video recording of the class. waterfrontgardens.org
Happy November, Louisville!
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To see even more great Louisville events, visit our Happenings page.