Plan a Shopping Day at the Paddock Shops this November

Before the holiday season really begins, why not do a little shopping for yourself? Visit the Paddock Shops this November, and enjoy a whole day of stores, restaurants and plenty of stuff to keep the kids occupied while you shop.

A Day at the Shops

The Paddock Shops are a family-friendly place to go shopping, have a bite to eat and spend a whole day -- or two. After all, no one's counting. You can find all sorts of shops here. Visit American Eagle Outfitters, the Gap, J. Crew, Ann Taylor, Pier 1 or dozens of others. There are a ton of stores here. You can find a nail salon, take the kids to Gymboree and pick up something new to read at Barnes and Noble. There's a lot of stuff to see and do in the Paddock Shops.

The Shops are at the corner of Brownsboro Road and N. Hurstbourne Parkway. You'll find them at 4055 Summit Plaza Drive, just down the road from the Springhurst neighborhood.

Spring Over to Springhurst

There are lots of place to go around Springhurst, from the busy atmosphere of the Paddock Shops to the quiet, natural beauty of E.P. "Tom" Sawyer State Park. There’s a lot to do inside Springhurst, too. This neighborhood was designed to be a quiet oasis for families. There are wide streets, sidewalks for kids to play safely and lots of big green lawns.

Many of the homes here have basements, garages and traditional architecture that never goes out of style. Springhurst is a community with a strong neighborhood spirit, and plenty of amenities for residents. There's a lake in the neighborhood, a pool, a clubhouse, tennis courts and plenty of places to have a picnic or go hiking.

Go take a look at Springhurst this November, and you may decide to shop for more than clothes and holiday gifts when you see the homes here.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

See a President at the National Cemetery this November

Lots of Louisvillians will tell you about Abraham Lincoln's history in Kentucky. He's famous for having lived in Kentucky, along with a few other things he did as President, and he's celebrated in the state. But Louisville is home to another President, and if you've never visited him then now is the perfect time to go. See the Zachary Taylor National Cemetery this November, and go see one of Louisville's lesser-known famous Presidential places.

President Zachary Taylor

The national cemetery is where you will find the final resting place of former President Zachary Taylor and his First Lady Margaret Taylor. The entire cemetery is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and includes many other residents. Soldiers who served in six different wars are buried here, people who fought in the Spanish-American War, both World Wars, the Korean War, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War.

Richard Taylor, father to Zachary, is also buried here. He fought in the American Revolutionary War. Another family member, W.G.L. Taylor, was a captain for the Confederate Army. There's a huge monument to Zachary Taylor here, along with several other features and details that set this cemetery apart from other national landmarks.

You'll find the Zachary Taylor National Cemetery at 4701 Brownsboro Road, right next to the large Indian Hills neighborhood. After you visit the history at the cemetery, get a look at the newer homes in this modern subdivision.

All Hail Indian Hills

You'll see lots of stunning homes in Indian Hills, but there's more to see in this beautiful neighborhood than bright green lawns and gorgeous architecture. Part of Beargrass Creek wends its way through Indian Hills. There are natural rock outcroppings and other features all over the neighborhood that give this community a unique look. There are thick stands of trees in this neighborhood as well. All these features give Indian Hills a natural look, but you'll find plenty of well-manicured properties here. Homes in Indian Hills are surrounded by landscaping and trees, and filled with the extras that everyone really wants.

Indian Hills is right next to the Louisville Country Club, and the homes here are styled to look and feel modern. You can find hardwood floors, large rooms for hosting parties, gourmet kitchens and all sorts of other features that make homes here truly magazine-worthy. Take a look around Indian Hills this November, and get a look at some of Louisville's older history and some of its best newer places to live.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Hear Choral Masterpieces

Listen to amazing music on November 1, and start the holiday season right. It’s a time for singing, for music and for visiting the Highlands, where you can find some of the most unique holiday gift ideas in the entire city.

A Choral Afternoon

Hear an afternoon of choral masterpieces at St. Brigid Catholic Church on November 1, and you’ll be swept away by the amazing sounds. Daniel Spurlock is the music director of the Louisville Chorus. If you’ve never heard the beautiful music the Louisville Chorus creates, this is the perfect event to attend.

The Chorus will be joined by the Oldham County High School Chorale and Cantamus under director Haley Reed. They’ll be accompanied by the deep, resonant tones of organ music. Be at St. Brigid from 4 to 5:45 pm to hear all the beautiful sounds. Tickets cost $20 for general admission, $15 for seniors and $5 for students. St. Brigid is a Catholic church, but it’s open and welcome to all for this and many other events in the neighborhood. You’ll find St. Brigid at 1520 Hepburn Avenue, in the Highlands.

Hello, Highlands

If you go to the Highlands during holiday season, you're definitely going to be tempted to shop. The Highlands neighborhood is stuffed with interesting little stores, locally-owned businesses and great places to stop and have a bite when you need to re-fuel. For several blocks along Bardstown Road, the Highlands is an amazing place to visit during the day or the night. You may hear live music, drop into a one-of-a-kind coffee shop or buy that must-have item that you never even knew existed before you came here.

Elsewhere in the Highlands, you'll see amazing homes from all time periods. Each one is different, and each has its own details to set it apart. You can find it all in the Highlands, from eye-popping homes that look like mansions to cozy couples' nests built just for two. There are family homes, apartments and all sorts of great places to live. So if you can pull yourself away from Bardstown Road, explore the rest of the Highlands. You may find yourself shopping for a new home while you're here. 

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

See the Kentucky Opera Present Macbeth September 18

See the Kentucky Opera perform Verdi’s Macbeth on September 18, and get blown away by the amazing culture that’s available in Louisville. The city may not be famous for its opera...but maybe it should be! Hear it for yourself, and you’ll see why opera lovers are going to love Louisville this September.

The Scottish Play

Macbeth is one of the most famous Shakespeare stories, and it’s beautiful when it unfolds in opera. This is a story of the supernatural, a story of madness and murder, a thrilling tale of kings and queens and intrigue. Can you think of a better reason for going to the opera?

Verdi’s opera is based on the play, of course, so Shakespeare buffs will certainly recognize the thrilling story. The lavish costumes and sets are provided by Opera Pacific Victoria, and the performance is sung in beautiful Italian.

Be at Louisville’s Brown Theater at 315 W. Broadway from 8 pm to 10 pm, and see this spectacular show for yourself. You’ll be in the heart of downtown Louisville, surrounded by the best of the city’s culture. You’ll find that the downtown area is also surrounded by some of the city’s best neighborhoods.

From the Play to the Park

The Shelby Park neighborhood is named for the neighborhood park that it surrounds. This was named for Isaac Shelby, the very first governor of Kentucky. You'll find that history still lives and breathes in Shelby Park. The entire neighborhood is full of historic buildings and amazing reminders of Louisville's past, when the streets were filled with horses and carriages instead of cars.

Looking to invest in a home that's ready to be renovated? Looking for an historic home that's already been updated? Searching for a cozy, comfortable dwelling or an amazing duplex? Whatever you're seeking, you can probably find it in Shelby Park. The homes here reflect the historic style of the neighborhood, but most of them are old only on the outside. On the inside, many have been renovated to give you the modern amenities you really want (like lights and water).

Shelby Park is just blocks away from the excitement of downtown, but the shady streets and historic buildings look years away from the fast-paced city streets.

Visit downtown Louisville and Shelby Park this September to enjoy culture, history and the amazing homes you can find near the downtown area.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Play in the Kentucky Wireless Golf Tournament September 17

Participate in the Kentucky Wireless Golf Tournament this September, or go just to watch this great day on the links. You’ll be at the beautiful Polo Fields Country Club, and you’ll be helping to provide funding for the Special Olympics. Polo Fields is one of the city’s prettiest neighborhoods, but it’s also a hidden gem that many don't even know about.

A Day in the Polo Fields

The Polo Fields is off Flat Rock Road, near the Middletown area. The entire neighborhood is designed to be gorgeous, with neat, landscaped lawns. There are all sorts of homes here, from the large and luxurious to cozy family dwellings.

 The country club and championship golf course are in the middle of the neighborhood. There's also a private pool, which residents love in the summertime. Polo Fields is a little bit off the beaten track, but still close enough to all the shopping, eating and other attractions in Middletown.

Get a good look at the golf course this September at the Kentucky Wireless Golf Tournament. Whether you come to play or watch, this is going to be a great day in the Polo Fields.

Tournament Golf

Go to the Polo Fields Country Club at 117001 Polo Fields Lane to participate in the tournament. The benefits will go to the Special Olympics. The event begins at 9:30 am. After golf, have some fun. A social from 5 to 8 pm will give you the chance to meet other golfers and spectators.

If you like golf, beautiful homes and supporting worthy causes, you’re going to love this golfing event. Go have fun in the fields this September, and enjoy a great day of golf.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

See the Showdown Car Show July 18

No car lover will want to miss the annual summer Showdown Car Show, a fun Louisville event that will give you the opportunity to look at some beautiful rides. There’s a silent auction and some other fun stuff to keep you entertained while you cruise around looking at all the amazing cars.

The Showdown Car Show

Louisville will turn into a car lover’s dream on July 18. This is when Valor Traditional Academy’s parking lot will fill up will all sorts of beautiful vehicles from 10 am to 4 pm. All cars, trucks and motorcycles are welcome to join the showdown for a $15 vehicle registration fee.

The top 40 vehicles will receive trophies. There will also be awards for the People’s Choice, the Kids’ Choice and the Best Bike. The awards presentation will begin at 4 pm. All proceeds of this event will benefit the Michael Feger Paralysis Foundation, a nonprofit group that helps people who have been affected by a spinal cord injury.

You’ll find the event at 11501 Schlatter Road, in the beautiful Glenmary neighborhood. You’ll recognize Valor Traditional Academy right away. It’s known in this community as “the castle” because of its beautiful architecture. Spend some time in Glenmary, and you’ll see that beautiful architecture is everywhere.

A Day in Glenmary

Residents of Glenmary love the location of the community. It's just down the road from the excitement and diversity of the Highlands area, a neighborhood famous for shopping and nightlife. Residents of Glenmary enjoy evenings eating in trendy restaurants along Bardstown Road, then come back to the peace and quiet of this beautiful neighborhood.

Glenmary is an oasis of large green lawns and big, beautiful homes. Natural creeks run behind the neighborhood, adding to the pretty landscape. Spend a day in Glenmary this July, and you may never want to leave.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Join the Red, White and Brew Bash July 3

Go to Fourth Street Live, one of Louisville’s most famous attractions, to join the Red, White and Brew Bash. Even if you don’t like brews, you can join in on the dancing, listen to the live entertainment, play games and maybe even win a prize. America’s birthday only happens once a year, so why not celebrate?

Howl at the Moon

Go to Howl at the Moon on July 3 for a night of entertainment and dancing. The live show doesn’t stop all night long, so you can enjoy the music any time. Play games to win prizes while you’re there. Beer and other drinks will be available all night long, too. Tickets cost just $5 at the door.

The party starts at 6 pm and goes until 2 am, so you can ring in America’s birthday the moment it happens. The founding fathers worked hard to make America a free country, and they would definitely want you to have fun. Fourth Street Live is all about fun. You’ll find it at 434 South 4th Street in downtown Louisville, just blocks away from historic Butchertown.

Being Around Butchertown

There are several neighborhoods in and around downtown Louisville, but Butchertown is one of the most unique and memorable.

Since the 1820s, Butchertown has been a home to professionals of all types. Many butchers did live here in the early days, but now Butchertown is a famously trendy part of the city with lots of different housing styles and types.

Butchertown is now a haven for art galleries, antique shops, gorgeous condos and lots of other attractions. The Thomas Edison house is located here, for those who like history. People who like thrills will find them at the nearby Louisville Extreme Park.

There's something for everyone to enjoy in Butchertown, a truly one-of-a-kind Louisville community. Let freedom ring this July 4, and explore some of the great neighborhoods located within blocks of exciting downtown Louisville.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Walk Around the Flip N Kicks Sneaker Expo May 16

No sneaker enthusiast is going to want to miss the unique Flip N Kicks Sneaker Expo. People come from as far away as Indianapolis to participate in this fun-filled day of sneakers. Whether you want to sell, buy or trade, you can do it here.

Expose Your Sneakers

The Flip N Kicks Sneaker Expo is at the Fern Valley Hotel and Conference Center at 2715 Fern Valley Road. The fun starts at noon, and the expo lasts all afternoon until 6 pm. Vendors come from Nashville, Cincinnati and even Indianapolis to show off their sneakers. General admission only costs $10, and for that you’ll be in a sneakers paradise.

 Anyone who like sneakers will like it here. Imagine wall-to-wall shopping and shoe shoppers. You never know when you’ll find an amazing pair of sneakers to trade or buy. And if you’re a shoe collector with a few too many pairs, maybe you want to sell some of your sneakers while you’re here.

Sneakers are a great footwear choice if you plan on getting out and enjoying the beautiful summer weather in Louisville this year. Sneakers keep your feet cool but protected when you’re hiking, climbing, biking, or just walking around one of the beautiful Louisville communities.  There are quite a few places to walk around the Fern Valley Road area.

Living in Lynnview

The Expo is just a few blocks away from Lynnview. This residential neighborhood is surrounded by restaurants, schools and main roads that will take you where you want to go. But inside the neighborhood, Lynnview is a quiet community filled with homes and families.

The winding streets are laid out simply, but carefully, to avoid lots of through traffic. This gives children places to play and cuts back on the noisy cars that come through the community. The quiet streets are a great place to take a walk, like if you need to break in some new sneakers maybe. Take a closer look at Lynnview and the entire Fern Valley area this May, and a take a walk around this great part of the city.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Be Pampered with Mom May 10

May 10 is Mother’s Day, and that means it’s the perfect day to go out and get pampered. Have a ladies’ day out at the Bridal Pampering Event, and spend the day celebrating you.

Getting Pampered

From 11 am to 6 pm, you’ll be pampered on May 10. It’s time to give yourself a break from wedding planning, or anything else you may be doing that’s been stressing you out.

 Enjoy a massage, get a facial, have a mani and pedi, and enjoy it all with your mom for Mother’s Day if you like. You’ll sip cocktails, nibble on appetizers and share all the hot gossip while you’re being pampered. This event is all about getting pampered and finding relaxation. When was the last time you took the time to do that?

Go to Bake My Day at 4113 Bardstown Road to take a much-needed break. When you’re done getting relaxed, enjoy a little retail therapy. You’ll be in the Buechel neighborhood, where you’ll find lot of great shopping options.

Shopping in Buechel

Buechel is next to the famous Highlands neighborhood, and lots of people in the Highlands come here to shop. You’ll find the Bashford Manor shopping district here, not to mention lots of small stores and fun places to visit throughout the community. There is a big commercial district in this community, but Buechel is primarily made up of residential neighborhoods.

Residents of Buechel live in pretty communities like Broadmoor Park, Butler Acres, Fountain Woods, Glenmead, Norfolk Estates and the Pines, to name just a few. There are many schools scattered throughout the Buechel area. This is a great place to shop, but it’s also a fantastic place to live. Spend some time in the Buechel area this May 10, and you could have trouble making yourself leave.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Witness a Murder on the Alien Express May 9

Step aboard a starship many years in the future, and have drinks and dinner with universally-famous aliens. But be warned: there is a killer hidden among them. It’s up to you to figure out who the killer is in this intergalactic world where normal forensics no longer apply. Can you figure out whodunnit?

On the Mother Ship

You won’t actually be on an alien ship, but that’s the atmosphere you’ll enjoy during “Murder on the Alien Express”, an event presented by the Whodunnit Murder Mystery Dinner Theater. A mystery will unfold before your very eyes while you have dinner and dance the night away. Can you keep on having fun once you find out that one of the party guests is actually a murderer?

Feel free to join in on the fun by dressing up like an alien if you like, or any other sci-fi character of your choice. When you’re on an alien spaceship, pretty much anything goes.

Arrive at 6:30 pm to get seated, because the show will begin promptly at 7. Tickets cost $45.50 for the dinner, the show, the tax and the gratuity. If you bring a group of 6 or more, you're eligible for a discount.

Step on board the ship at the Hilton Garden Inn at 2735 Crittenden Drive. The show ends at 9:30, so you haven’t got much time to unmask the killer. The Hilton Garden Inn is surrounded by several Louisville attractions and communities. The Wyandotte neighborhood, part of Louisville for more than 100 years, is just minutes away.

Why Wyandotte?

Wyandotte is best-known for Wyandotte Park, which is chock-full of stuff to do. Kids and adults alike keep themselves busy here with volleyball, tennis, basketball, croquet, horseshoes, and the sprayground area. Kids love running beneath the giant fountain at the sprayground. They can dry off at the playground area, which has all the classic features that kids (and the young at heart) enjoy.

The picture-perfect park is just one feature of the neighborhood. Wyandotte is laid out in the simple grid pattern that includes the commercial district along Berry Boulevard and the more residential areas around Sale Avenue. People live and work in the Wyandotte community. The neighborhood has its own schools, shops and plenty of stuff to see and do.

Because Wyandotte is near the center of Louisville, it's close to all the most famous attractions. The neighborhood is only minutes away from Churchill Downs, Kentucky Kingdom, Cardinal Stadium and all the fun you'll find at the Hilton Garden Inn.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Dance Away Derby Night May 2

After the big horse race, most people enjoy going to the after-parties. There are tons of different parties to choose from all over Louisville, but there’s only one Silks in the Bluegrass event. If you like Motown and funk music and you want to help raise money for a good cause, it’s time to put on your silks and start dancing.

Silks in the Bluegrass

Have dinner, sip cocktails and do some dancing at the Silks in the Bluegrass Derby after-party. This event is used to raise funds for Operation Open Arms. This organization, based in Louisville, helps care for children with mothers who are imprisoned.

 Live entertainment will perform to keep you entertained during this event, which begins at 7:30 pm. That’s plenty of time for the horses to run the big race, because that only takes 2 minutes. The party doesn’t end until midnight. Tickets cost $150 per person, which is fine since the proceeds go to charity.

Keep your eyes peeled while you’re dining and dancing. Celebrities and local personalities are bound to attend this fun Derby event. You’ll find it all at the fantastic Crowne Plaza Ballroom at 830 Phillips Lane.

From Silks to Camping

This event is just a few blocks away from Camp Taylor, a pretty Louisville neighborhood that's surrounded by green. The Audubon Country Club is on one side, the Louisville Zoo is on the other. Camp Taylor is close to the major interstates and to big attractions like Kentucky Kingdom, but it maintains a quiet residential feeling just the same. Taylor Memorial Park and the Holy Family School are both within the neighborhood boundaries.

You'll find lots of shopping and eating near Camp Taylor, but you'll also find several of Louisville's best attractions. Louisville Mega Cavern, the Ohio Valley Volleyball Center and the Kentucky Exposition Center are all minutes away.

Before you dance the night away, walk your day away around Camp Taylor. You might decide you want to have a permanent camp here, and join the residents who call this community home.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Go Hiking in the Forest April 18

It’s spring at the Jefferson Memorial Forest, and that makes it the perfect time to go hiking. Do it this April at the forest, and learn more about the natural wonders in Louisville. Go to the FOX Families Outside X-ploring event, and get a close look at all the glory of spring.

Memorial Forest

Hike through the Jefferson Memorial Forest to see the wildflowers blooming. Listen, and you may hear the frogs making mating calls to each other. The hike will take you to Shannon’s Pond, so you should be able to hear the frogs pretty well.

 This walk through the forest is more than a hike. Once you get to the pond, participate in a boat-building lesson. You will actually learn how to build a boat using natural materials. The walk begins at 9 am, when the weather is still cool and a little crisp.

You may want to bring a jacket with you to stay warm in the cool morning air. Bring along water to drink and a snack as well. The entire walk will be outdoors, so be prepared. Don’t wear your best clothes, because being out in Nature can get messy. You will probably get some dirt on your clothing while you work on boat building.

You’ll find the forest at 12304 Holsclaw Hill Road, in Fairdale. This is a community inside Louisville, but Fairdale is like its own small town.

By the Forest

Fairdale has its own schools and parks, a library, churches, and lots of places to live. This community is right next to some of the most beautiful natural areas in the city. The Tom Wallace Recreation Area is right next to Fairdale, and the Jefferson Memorial Forest is within the boundaries of the neighborhood.

These huge green spaces provide lots of room for hiking, exploring, boating, biking and having all sorts of fun outdoors. Have some fun yourself this April, and take a walk through the forest to see nature in all of its best spring beauty.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Learn the Science of Picking a Derby Winner April 16

Many experts pick a winning horse by examining the odds, crunching the numbers and using other mysterious methods to determine the champion. If you want to know some of those tricks, too, you want to attend the Winning Strategies SW event.

How to Pick a Winner

When it’s Derby Day, everyone’s betting on the races. Maybe this year, you’d like to win a little money doing it. If you think that science and math are the key to picking the right horse, you’ve got to attend Winning Strategies.

 
Economist Bill Steiden and mathematician Pete Rodski will host the session and tell you how the experts use the numbers to make the odds, find the winners and make the most money. You’ll learn what to look for when picking a horse and a rider, so you can actually mathematically increase your odds of choosing the winner of the race.

The talk is at JCTC, Jefferson County Technical College, at the Valley Station campus. If you haven’t been to Valley Station lately, now’s the time to find out what you’ve been missing.

Down in the Valley

Valley Station is well-known for its schools. Along with the college campus, Valley is home to Stuart Middle School and Valley Traditional. The Bobby Nichols golf course is almost within eyesight of the JCTC campus. A branch of Jefferson Community College is out here as well.

Waverly Hills, the world-famous haunted attraction, is also located in Valley Station. Look up at the hill, and you may see the towers of Waverly poking up above the trees. It’s also close to the golf course, but don't venture there without permission. It isn’t safe for you or for the ghosts.

Valley Station has a little bit of creepy, but it’s also got a lot of smarts. Go to 1000 Community College Drive this April to learn the secrets of picking a Derby horse, and find out for yourself.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Go Gonzo at the GonzoFest April 11

If you're a fan of Hunter S. Thompson, music, poetry, crafts or just getting a little weird, sometimes, you've got to go to GonzoFest Louisville. This annual event celebrates all things Hunter S. Thompson and the entire spirit of being Gonzo. In other words, it's time to let your hair down and embrace the slightly weirder side of Louisville.

Going Gonzo

It's the fifth year of GonzoFest, and this year is going to be the weirdest year yet. Two stages will feature live music from local Louisville acts. You can also hear poetry readings. And if you're a writer yourself, enter the literary contest.

 Maybe you like art instead. Browse the drawings for a Hunter S. Thompson statue, and see which you like best. Live art will also be on display, and many craft vendors will have booths set up if you want to do a little shopping. GonzoFest merchandize will also be available.

Take a wild picture of yourself in the Gonzo photo booth before you watch the Squallis Puppeteers perform. If you get hungry, no problem. The Monkey's Uncle Grill, featuring Lil Cheezers, will be providing eats for all.

GonzoFest is at Waterfront Park this year. Look for it at the Parkway Lawn at 2 pm. GonzoFest doesn't end until midnight, so you'll have plenty of time to get weird. Admission is $15.

By the Water

Louisville's waterfront is famous for being a beautiful community gathering spot. It draws people from all over Louisville who come to concerts and other events, like GonzoFest, but the people who live closest have the chance to enjoy the park most often.

Head along River Road and Waterfront Park place to find gorgeous waterfront living. This is where you'll find some of the city's most modern condos and picturesque homes. Head deeper into the city to find modern high-rise living, city dwelling at its finest.

Like history? Downtown Louisville is full of historic homes as well, remainders of the earlier days of the city when Louisville was still young. There's something for everyone in downtown Louisville, including weirdness!

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Learn How to Prune Like a Master April 11

Take your work gloves, pruning tools and enthusiasm for gardening to Yew Dell Gardens this April, and learn the secrets of professional pruning. Your landscaping is only as good as your upkeep of it, and pruning is a large part of that. Learn how to keep your plants looking amazing with a few simple tricks and tools you'll gain in this hands-on workshop.

Pruning the Gardens

It costs $30 to attend this training session, which is led by a master gardener. The new head gardener of Yew Dell will teach you the tricks he's learned over the years, so you can make your own home gardens look as manicured and perfect as the fancy gardens you have to pay money to see -- like Yew dell.

 The Yew Dell Gardens are so beautiful, couples choose to get married there. See the amazing beauty of the gardens for yourself when you attend the class on April 11, which begins at 10 am. Yew Dell Gardens is at 6220 Old LaGrange Road in Crestwood.

Going to Crestwood

Crestwood is just outside Louisville, though to many this is an extension of the city itself. This community has received national attention for being such a great place to live. CNN has recognized Crestwood for being one of the best communities in Louisville.

This neighborhood has its own schools, library, arts center and lots of other things for people to do. See Crestwood this spring, and see one of the prettiest places in Crestwood when you go to the Yew Dell Gardens. Learn how to beautify your own outdoor spaces, and prune your garden like a pro.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Have a Nine-Course Dinner at Bistro 1860 April 2

Wine and dine yourself at Bistro 1860 for a spectacular nine-course seafood meal. The meal includes eight different kinds of fish, making this any seafood lover's delight.

Have a Seafood Meal

The fish at the dinner is all hand-selected and purchased from Honolulu Fish Company. All the fish are caught in American waters by eco-friendly methods. Each different course is paired with wine. The meal isn't just about eating seafood. It's about exploring the fruits of the ocean.

Different textures and tastes will be highlighted at the meal, so you'll virtually take a culinary tour of the waters. Wines from Spain, Italy, France and California will be on the menu. Each course of fish is served with side dishes and special seasonings designed to bring out the unique flavor of the fish. The wine complements each course.

Dinner starts at 6:30, so bring your appetite. The meal costs $225 per person, plus taxes and gratuity. Call ahead to make reservations to attend this delicious culinary tour of the ocean waters. When the dinner ends at 9 pm, you'll have some time to take in the evening air and walk off the wine after you eat.

A Walk on the Hill

Bistro 1860 is at 1765 Mellwood Avenue, which puts you in one of the great walking neighborhoods of the city. Crescent a Hill is known for its gardens, something that the residents take pride in. This makes any walk through the neighborhood a spectacle of color, and in April you'll see some of those early blooms already making their appearance.

One-of-a-kind boutiques and unique shopping make Crescent Hill a great place to visit, day or night. You'll find lots of modern flair in the stores, but you'll see the past come alive in the neighborhood. There are several historic attractions here, not to mention the Crescent Hill reservoir. Looking out at the water is a perfect way to end any seafood meal. Take a walk up the hill this April, and you'll find out for yourself.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Enjoy Arcade Gaming at the Louisville Arcade Expo March 7 – 9

Remember playing arcade games? Those memories will come to life at the Louisville Arcade Expo. Purchase your tickets, and enjoy a whole world of pinball, arcade and even console games – all set to free play.

At the Arcade Expo

There are hundreds of games ready to be played at the Louisville Arcade Expo. Purchase a one-day ticket for $20, or enjoy the whole weekend of gaming for $45. The Expo is open Friday from 2 pm to midnight. On Saturday, it’s open from 10 am to midnight. Sunday, the Expo is open from 10 am to 4 pm. That gives you many, many hours of play time.

 Play Duck Hunt, Jurassic Park, Wizard of Oz and Doctor Who pinball machines, to name just a few. At the full-size arcade games, you’ll find classics like Capcom’s Alien vs. Predator, NBA Jam, Star Wars, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Breakout will all be at the Expo.

Go to the console gaming area to find the machines made in the 1970s, ‘80s and ‘90s. Rare machines, like the Apple II and Commodore 64, will be present. And because this event is all about games and gaming, kids who are 10 and younger get in for free with an adult admission. Of course, you may find that you’ll have more fun if you leave the kids at home!

All the fun begins on March 7 at the Ramada Plaza at 1776 Plantside Drive.

Driving Plantside

The Ramada Plaza is easy to find. It’s in the middle of a busy commercial district that offers restaurants, shopping, fitness centers and more. Outside this commercial district, you’ll find several beautiful Louisville neighborhoods.

The city of Hurstbourne Acres is just blocks away from the Ramada Plaza. This community holds regular town meetings, and has its own City Hall. Hurstbourne Acres is famous for Stanley B. Welch park. He was the former mayor of Hurstbourne Acres. Speaking of acres, the park takes up one and a half of them, providing plenty of green spaces for children to run and play and for adults to relax. There’s a brick wellhouse at the park that’s more than 100 years old. The annual city Summer Picnic and Easter Egg Hunt are held at the park every year. The park is open to all residents who want to enjoy it, though visitors are always welcome as well.

Before a night of free play indoors, go to the park to soak up a little sun. This part of Louisville offers all different types of fun, so why not enjoy more than one?

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Celebrate Dr. Seuss at the Library March 7

Dr. Seuss is one of the most famous children's writers, responsible for creating classics like "Cat in the Hat" and "Green Eggs and Ham." And this March, the Louisville Free Public Library is celebrating his birthday. All the kids in Louisville are invited to join in on the fun.

Library Party

The library is the perfect place to have a party for one of the most famous storytellers of all time, and now Seuss is more exciting than ever. Previously-undiscovered manuscripts have been found by the family of Dr. Seuss, and you know what that means: new stories. For the first time in years, brand-new Suess stories will be published in the near future.

Now's the time to catch up on all the classic stories he told in the past. Celebrate the life, and birthday, of Seuss with games and crafts based on the characters in his books. There will be stories during the party, of course, and children will have the chance to discover the stuff the library has to offer these days. The Louisville Free Public Library continues to grow and expand its locations and services every year, so it can continue being an important part of the community.

The library is a big part of the Crescent Hill community. The Crescent Hill branch is at 2762 Frankfort Avenue, in one of the most active areas of the neighborhood.

In Crescent Hill

Crescent Hill is just east of downtown Louisville, which gives residents easy access to everything the city has to offer. It's one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, and one of the most active. Events are held in Crescent Hill throughout the year, not just in the library but in community areas all over the neighborhood.

The neighborhood has a little something for everyone. There are historic buildings, modern attractions and lots of places to go and things to do in this community. Crescent Hill is also one of the city's prettiest communities. People here pride themselves on taking care of their spaces. Even as far back as 1908, the Crescent Hill Improvement Club was working toward making the neighborhood beautiful.

The neighborhood is still beautiful, and constantly improving itself. So visit Crescent Hill this March to celebrate Dr. Seuss at the library. It's a party! For once, a reasonable amount of noise will be tolerated at the library...within reason, of course!

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Make Your Own Derby Hat

The Kentucky Derby is always Louisville’s biggest event, and it’s one of those things you have to prepare for in advance. Go to the Forme Millinery Derby Hat Workshop this year to make your own amazing Derby fashion accessory, and check at least one thing off your to-do list.

The Hat-Making Workshop

Fancy a fascinator? Want a wide-brim, 1940s look? Whatever you want to make, you can learn more about it here. The instructor will tell you how to use horsehair to make your Derby hat. Is there any material that could be more appropriate? You’ll form the shape of your own hat to get a perfect, custom fit. Every part of your hat will be hand-made by you, so you know you’ll be wearing a one-of-a-kind creation. When people ask who made your hat, just say it’s from a hot new designer!

Bring your own needles, pins, thread and scissors. If you want to add ribbons, feathers and other doodads to your hat, bring them along. The workshop is at the Forme Millinery Workshop at 1860 Mellwood Avenue, Suite 122-A. It begins at 10 am and ends at 1 pm. The price is $295 a person, which is less than what you’ll spend on an actual designer Derby hat.

Trendy Town

You’ll be in one of Louisville’s trendiest neighborhoods when you go to the Derby hat workshop. The Clifton community is made up of several smaller neighborhoods, like Kenilworth Heights. There are many old homes here that date back to the 60-year history of the community. Historic Queen Anne and Italianate homes harken back to an earlier era of the city. You’ll also find brand-new, modern condos in the community.

In addition to the many homes, there are lots of businesses, restaurants and boutiques in the Clifton area. The famous Mom’s Music is nearby, not to mention lots of other places worth visiting. Take a look around this popular area of the city, and maybe you’ll even get some great ideas for your new, custom-designed Derby hat.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Annual Burns Dinner Gala January 24

The details of the Burns Dinner Gala must be preceded by explanation of three things. First, Robert Burns is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland. He was born January 25, 1759. This gala is sort of like his 256th birthday party. The second is haggis. To save you the time of looking it up the formal description is: a savoury pudding containing sheep's pluck (heart, liver and lungs); minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt, mixed with stock, and traditionally encased in the animal's stomach and simmered for approximately three hours. Doesn't it sound delicious? The third is that a dram is a small drink of whiskey.

The Burns Dinner Gala Details

The Scottish Society of Louisville is hosting its 23rd Annual Burns Dinner Gala on Saturday, January 24.  The bar opens at 6:00pm and dinner activities will commence promptly at 6:30pm with a plated traditional Scottish dinner and the serving of haggis, along with wee drams for traditional toasts. In addition to dinner and traditional toasts, the evening will be filled with entertainment and dancing. The lively event has attendees who return every year and welcome newcomers. Tickets are $45 for the night of rich traditions at the Holiday Inn Louisville East at 1325 Hurstbourne Parkway.

Expect the bagpipes and kilts to be out in full force and the toasts and dancing to take over the night. A traditional Haggis Ceremony will be performed and include the recitation of Burns' poem Ode to the Haggis. Mother Grove will provide the music and are sure to have you up dancing jig after jig with their fun, high energy Celtic sound. The evening will close with the joining of hands in the circle of friendship for the singing of Burns' Auld Land Syne at the end of the night.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Fleetwood Mac Tribute at Headliners January 23

Fans of the seventies super group Fleetwood Mac have a two exciting events in Louisville in the coming weeks. Rumours - A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac is on stage at Headliners Music Hall at 1386 Lexington Road in Louisville on January 23 at 9:00pm.  Tickets are $10 or free with a blanket donation for Salvation Army.

The group formed in 2010 for a short run of performances but were so popular that they stayed together and are still performing the show four years later! The band will perform Fleetwood Mac's 1977 Rumours album, which included mega hits Don't Stop and You Make Loving Fun. They cover hits from other Fleetwood Mac album releases in addition to this collection that is now nearly forty years old. The show at Headliners will be opened by Bad Bad Things: A Chris Isaak Tribute.

Fleetwood Mac at KFC Yum! Center

The Rumours experience will be a warm up for the Fleetwood Mac fan as the band is bringing their tour to the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville on February 17. The band has been touring since 2013. Christine McVie has recently joined the tour completing the original band to the delight of fans worldwide. The "On With the Show" Tour is in its second leg and continues to sell out arenas around the country as Fleetwood Mac's popularity reaches new heights during this reunion. Ticket prices to see Lindsey Buckingham, Mick Fleetwood, Christine McVie, Stevie Nicks and John McVie in Louisville at the Yum! Center  range from $49.50 to $179.50.

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!

Harlem Globetrotters in Louisville January 16

The Washington Generals have not given up! The Harlem Globetrotters will hit the court at the KFC Yum! Center on the evening of Friday, January 16 at 7:30pm to give the Generals yet another chance for a victory. For people of a certain age it is difficult to read this far without hearing Sweet Georgia Brown whistled inside your head. Not long after the whistling settles in, a desire to spin a red, white and blue basketball on your finger comes calling. The memories of Curly Neal and Meadowlark Lemon come rushing back and a the corners of your mouth turn up in a smile.

Entertainment for a Range of Ticket Prices

An opportunity to relive or encounter this fun for the first time is upon us. The ticket prices range from $26 to $113 for a fun filled night at the KFC Yum! Center at One Arena Place in Louisville. The game is more than basketball. It is an athletic exhibition. It is comedy. It is a theater performance.

Globetrotter Memories

The team was immortalized in the 1970's through a Saturday morning cartoon program back when television program choices were limited, and kids in America wanted to watch every Saturday morning. After the show was over, we all wanted to dribble through the house and send the ball behind our backs and into a sibling's hands for the next set of tricks. Of course, every sensible mom in America implemented the no bouncing or throwing balls in the house policy before television was invented. This is the only reason lamps weren't being broken by the tens of thousands every Saturday morning when the children of America re-enacted the Harlem Globetrotters carton immediately after it ended.

Put on your red, white and blue (or green and gold in support of the Washington Generals, if you dare) and bring back some good memories and make some new ones while you are at it!

About the Author:  Joe Hayden is the Team Owner and Manager of the Joe Hayden Real Estate Team - Your Louisville Real Estate Experts!