Learn about future plans for the International Thespian Festival.
Upcoming Dates & Locations
| June 21-26, 2026 | Indiana University Bloomington |
| June 28-July 2, 2027 | Downtown Louisville, Kentucky |
| June 26-30, 2028 | Downtown Louisville, Kentucky |
| June 25-29, 2029 | Downtown Louisville, Kentucky |
ITF 2026 FAQ
Read answers to commonly asked questions for ITF 2026 in Bloomington, Indiana!
ITF 2026 FAQ
ITF 2027 FAQ
We know that big changes bring big questions. With the International Thespian Festival moving to a new home in 2027, we want to make sure students, teachers, families, and partners feel informed and excited about what’s ahead. This FAQ is designed to answer common questions about the move and to highlight what attendees can look forward to when ITF begins its next chapter in Louisville, Kentucky.
What are the dates for ITF 2027?
ITF 2027 will take place June 28–July 2, 2027.
Where will ITF 2027 be located?
ITF 2027 will take place in Louisville, KY!
Louisville’s vibrant downtown arts district offers a walkable and welcoming setting for festival participants, with nationally recognized venues such as the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts, The Louisville Palace, and Actors Theatre of Louisville. Attendees will also enjoy access to state-of-the-art conference facilities at the Kentucky International Convention Center, hotels at a range of price points, ample restaurants, and a thriving local arts community.
By tapping into these rich cultural resources, ITF will provide students and educators with inspiring spaces and opportunities to connect with Louisville’s professional arts scene..
Why did ITF change locations?
After five successful years at Indiana University in Bloomington, ITF has outgrown its current venue.
After five successful years at Indiana University in Bloomington, ITF has outgrown its current venue. Following an extensive search by a committee comprised of EdTA board, staff, and members, and guided by six criteria— mission alignment, safety, accessibility, walkability, affordability, and capacity for growth—Louisville emerged as the ideal next home for the festival.
The city’s downtown arts district not only meets these needs but also offers unparalleled opportunities to partner with leading cultural institutions, creating an even richer experience for students and educators.
What is the nearest airport and how do I get downtown?
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport is less than 15 minutes from festival venues. Multiple shuttles and rideshare services are available, and discounted charter bus options will be announced closer to the event.
Where will attendees stay?
Festival housing will be coordinated through Louisville Tourism, making it simple for groups to book together. All official ITF hotels are within a 2–3 block walk of venues. Options will include:
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Louisville Downtown
- Galt House Hotel & Suites
- Hyatt Regency Louisville
- Louisville Marriott Downtown
- Omni Louisville Hotel
- The Seelbach Hilton
How will meals work?
Meals at ITF 2027 will look a little different from past years. Instead of a bundled all-access meal plan, attendees will enjoy more flexibility, with over 30 restaurants and quick-service options within walking distance of festival venues. We are exploring additional meal plan options that can be purchased for an added fee. More details on meal choices and pricing will be shared in 2026.
Check out this extensive list of Louisville restaurants!
What safety measures will be in place?
The safety of students and adults is EdTA’s top priority. Louisville offers strong, layered safety supports, including:
- Louisville Downtown Partnership Ambassadors stationed throughout the district to assist visitors and report emergencies.
- Downtown police headquarters located inside the convention center.
- First aid stations and EMS presence at the convention center.
- Controlled access to all festival venues.
- Safety volunteers in partner hotels.
These measures are designed to give attendees and families peace of mind throughout the festival.
How much will it cost to attend ITF 2027?
Pricing will be released in the late fall of 2026. Because the festival will not be held on a campus, fees will more closely resemble the current Activities-Only Pass (housing and meals purchased separately). Additional add-ons will be available when pricing is announced.
Will ITF programming (Main Stage, Thespys, etc.) remain at the new location?
Yes! All of the programming that you know and love (and more!) will continue to be featured and celebrated in Louisville. While the venue change may bring some adjustments to how and where programs take place, the integrity of the programming will remain intact.
How long will Louisville host ITF?
Louisville will host ITF beginning in 2027, with a three-year commitment in place. This multi-year partnership provides a strong foundation for the festival’s future while giving us room to continue growing and evolving in a vibrant arts city.