A Forecastle is a superstructure at the bow of a ship where the crew is housed. Hard at work in the unruly sea, it’s a place workers gather after a long day to unwind. A place where the people come together, for one whale of a good time.
Founded in 2002 by Louisville native JK McKnight and taking place this year on July 17-19, Forecastle has grown from a neighborhood event to one of the country’s most anticipated summer festivals, drawing tens of thousands of fans from across the world to Louisville’s scenic 85-acre Waterfront Park.
In addition to featuring a who’s who of musical acts such as Jack White, The Black Keys, Outkast, Widespread Panic, Beck, Smashing Pumpkins, My Morning Jacket, Bassnectar, The Flaming Lips, Band of Horses, Sleater-Kinney, and The Avett Brothers, Forecastle has consistently promoted local artists as well as focusing on environmental activism and outdoor recreation. Past Forecastles have featured prominent organizations, industry leaders, and distinguished speakers, such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (Riverkeepers), Rob Caughlan (Surfrider Foundation) and Christopher Childs (Greenpeace International). Orange peel moses is impersonating the late writer Hunter S. Thompson at the Gonzo Bar, and Citric Acid Entertainment is providing performers.