It’s that time of year again across South Central Kentucky — combines are rolling, tractors are humming, and farmers are racing the clock to wrap up another busy harvest season. From Bardstown and Lebanon to Campbellsville, Bloomfield, Howardstown and New Haven, you can feel the energy of hard work, long days, and the satisfaction that comes with seeing the fields finally cleared.
But when the day winds down and the sun sets behind the hills, it’s time to relax, recharge, and enjoy one of Kentucky’s best traditions — live local music. 🎶
Whether you’re fresh from the fields or just soaking up the crisp fall air, there’s no better way to unwind than at one of the region’s bars, wineries, restaurants, or distilleries featuring local musicians.
🎸 Live Music in South Central Kentucky
From cozy acoustic sets to full-band energy, South Central Kentucky’s music scene is thriving this fall:
Friday, October 17
Rob Unseld
Old Stables Sports Bar at Mammy’s Kitchen
116 W Stephen Foster Ave Bardstown, KY, 40004
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Ryan Raikes
3rd Street Tap House
112 N Third Street, Bardstown, KY 40004
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Dylan West
Salt River Brewing Company
337 S. Buckman St. Shepherdsville, KY, 40165
6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Saturday, October 18
Collins and Kieth
Sherwood Inn
138 S Main Street, New Haven, KY 40051
7:00 pm
Dylan West
MG’s Prime Time Bar & Event Center
7017 Global Dr Louisville, KY, 40258
9:00 pm – 1:00 am
The Good Folks
Bardstown Craft Beer Festival
Bardstown Farmers Market, Bardstown, KY 40004
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Brian Williamson
Top Hat Tavern
23 Lincoln Square Hodgenville, KY, 42748
8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Carly Johnson
McIntyre & Family Winery
585 McIntyre Lane, Bardstown, KY 40004
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Kaleb Cecil
The Old Talbott Tavern
107 W Stephen Foster Avenue, Bardstown, KY 40004
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
If you’re wondering where to find your next favorite show, check out the Music Wanderlust Calendar of Events — your one-stop guide for live music in Kentucky!
🌾 Unwind, Support Local, and Savor the Season
When you show up for a local artist, you’re doing more than enjoying good music — you’re supporting your community. Local musicians, small venues, and Kentucky’s creative spirit all depend on people like you who choose to listen, clap, and share the love.
So as the harvest rush comes to an end, take a night off.
Grab a drink, find a table, and let the music carry you away.
You’ve earned it. 💛
And don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and MusicWanderlust.com for more updates, event photos, and stories from Kentucky’s vibrant live music scene.