From parking to food, here's your complete guide to the 2024 St. James Court Art Show

Kirby Adams, Louisville Courier Journal

Fall is in the air and the annual award-winning St. James Court Art Show is right around the corner. Mark your calendar, this year the 68th annual art show will be held Oct. 4-6 on the historic streets of Old Louisville.

The first weekend in October means thousands of art lovers will flock to the neighborhood during the fine arts and contemporary crafts show. The three-day event, which includes visual arts, crafts, food and drink, typically attracts more than 250,000 visitors and more than 600 artists from around the United States. This year, visitors will discover unique works of art in 17 artistic mediums, from clay to wood, and everything in between.

In addition to many Kentucky artists, hundreds of artists travel from around the world to participate in this juried show. Only about one in four that apply are selected to show their work at the St. James Court Art Show.

Part of the show's unique charm is its location in Old Louisville, the largest preserved district of Victorian architecture in the United States. The show is divided into six unique sections of the neighborhood: St. James Court, Belgravia Court, Fourth Street, 3rd Street, 1300 Section, and the West End Baptist Church.

St. James Court Fountain during the St.James Court Art Show in Old Louisville
St. James Court Fountain during the St.James Court Art Show in Old Louisville

During its 68-year history, the popular art show has won numerous awards and this year was named the "No. 3 Best Fine Art and Design Show in America" by Sunshine Artist magazine. St. James Court Art Show also ranked among 200 of the most profitable art festivals in the country based on artists' reported sales in 2023.

“We are thrilled and honored to be recognized as one of the top 3 Best Fine Art and Design Show in America," said Howard Rosenberg, executive director of the St. James Court Art Show. "This accolade is a testament to the incredible talent of the artists and the dedication of our team. It inspires us to continue elevating the art experience for everyone involved.”

Here's what you need to know about the 2024 St. James Court Art Show:

When is the St. James Court Art Show?

The 68th annual St. James Court Art Show takes Friday, Oct. 4, and Saturday, Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where is the 2024 St James Court Art Show held?

The art show is held in historic Old Louisville, one of the largest preserved districts of Victorian architecture in the United States. The show takes place just south of Central Park on St. James Court, Belgravia Court, Magnolia Avenue, Third and Fourth streets. For GPS purposes, use this address: 1402 St James Court, Louisville.

How much does the art show cost?

Admission is free, and the art show is a rain-or-shine event.

Where do I find parking for the St James Court Art Show?

Old Louisville is approximately three miles south of downtown Louisville and three blocks north of The University of Louisville. If you choose to search for public on-street parking outside the event perimeter, be certain to wear your walking shoes. Keep in mind that many streets are closed to traffic and parking during the show.

Parking is also available in these private lots. When you pay to park at one of the lots listed below, you are helping various non-profit organizations raise funds:

  • Cochran Elementary School: 500 W. Gaulbert Ave.

  • DuPont Manual High School: 120 W. Lee St.

  • Youth Performing Arts School: 1517 S. Second St.

  • Noe Middle School: 121 W. Lee St.

  • Louisville Woman’s Club: behind 1322 S. Fourth St.

  • Edison Center: 701 W. Ormsby Ave.

Handicap parking is available on the east side of Sixth Street (along Central Park) between Park and Magnolia avenues and the north lane of Hill between Sixth and Third streets.

Bike parking is available in Central Park near the Old Louisville Information Center and Louisville Metro Police Department 4th Division.

Can I take TARC to the St. James Court Art Show show?

Yes. TARC will be joining PARC (Parking Authority of River City) this year to offer a travel package for art lovers headed to the St. James Court Art Show. Patrons can park at PARC’s Brown Hotel Parking Garage for $12 and then leave the driving to TARC, with buses coming approximately every 15 minutes to get patrons to and from the art show worry-free.

Where do I find food and drink at the St. James Court Art Show?

Food vendors are found throughout the grounds of the art show. For unique, gourmet-type foods not sold elsewhere at the show, check the Fourth Street section of the St. James Court Art Show. Food trucks will be located on Hill Street between Third and Fourth streets.

What is not allowed at the St. James Court Art Show?

Sorry, no pets are allowed, outside of service animals, at the St. James Court Art Show. For other prohibited items, visit stjamescourtartshow.com.

Where can I find more information on the art show?

For more information about the St. James Court Art Show, visit stjamescourtartshow.com and follow them on Facebook at Facebook.com/StJamesCourtArtShow.

Reach features reporter Kirby Adams at kadams@courier-journal.com.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: 2024 St. James Court Art Show: dates, where to park, vendors

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