The History of J-Town's Gaslight Festival

Louisville’s J-Town is one of the best places to live in Kentucky.

Photo courtesy of the Jeffersontown Chamber.

Every year, business owners and community leaders within J-Town (short for Jeffersontown) prepare for the historic Gaslight Festival in Gaslight Square. Renovated in 1966, the charming square was remodeled with several replica gaslights after original gaslights were discovered in a nearby church. The very first Gaslight Festival took place in 1970 to promote the square’s completion.
 
Over the years, the Gaslight Festival has greatly expanded and diversified. Today, over 250 art and crafts booths, live music, carnival rides, a parade, and golf scramble make this an unforgettable weekend tradition. Every third weekend in September, over 200,000 visitors from across the region make the drive to Gaslight Square for the festival.
 
New attractions continue to be added to the weekend lineup, including car shows, a 5K run/walk, a blood drive, a motorcycle ride, and a wine-tasting event. Local businesses, organizations, and volunteers actively participate in building on the success of the festival each year. Proceeds from the Gaslight Festival often go toward supporting local nonprofits and charitable initiatives.
 
The Jeffersontown Gaslight Festival has evolved from a small local event into a significant regional celebration that showcases the rich culture and community spirit of J-Town and the Louisville area. It remains an important tradition that brings people together and contributes to the vitality of the region.
 
Gaslight Square
10532 Taylorsville Road
Jeffersontown, KY 40299