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What do I need to know about the Kentucky Derby?
The Kentucky Derby Experience 
The Kentucky Oaks & The Kentucky Derby
Churchill Downs
www.kentuckyderby.com
The longest continuously staged sporting event in the world and the first leg of the Triple Crown of thoroughbred horse racing just keeps getting better and better. The running of the Kentucky Derby on the first Saturday in May is preceded by the Kentucky Oaks on the day before. Words simply cannot describe the Derby experience. Whether you're cheering on your horse from Millionaire's Row, the grandstand or the infield, the excitement of watching the "greatest two minutes in sports," surrounded by thousands of people is what makes Derby such a unique event. Numerous publications throughout Louisville and the region profile upcoming Derby events and details of how you can participate in this historic springtime tradition. Whether your interest is in celebrity sightings, hat critiquing, infield mud slinging or studying the horses in the paddock, Churchill Downs lives up to its historic reputation and offers an experience like no other than the first weekend in May.
The Kentucky Derby Festival
www.kdf.org
It started with "two minutes" and became more than two weeks. The Kentucky Derby Festival is one of the premiere events of its kind in the world, attracting nearly 1.5 million people who gather to celebrate spring, the rich Derby tradition and the unique vitality of the Louisville community.
With more than 4,000 volunteers and the support of 325 sponsors, the Derby Festival hosts a whirlwind of 70 special events throughout the city, including Thunder Over Louisville - touted as the nation's largest annual fireworks extravaganza. The ensuing two weeks of excitement and entertainment promises something for everyone of all ages, including:
Kentucky Derby Festival Opening Ceremonies Thunder Over Louisville
Downtown Louisville Waterfront Park, River Rd. and Southern Indiana shorelines
Kentucky Derby Festival Great Balloon Race
Lift-off at Kentucky Fair & Expo Center
Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon/Mini Marathon
The 13.1-mile run begins at Iroquois Park and ends in downtown Louisville.
Kentucky Derby Festival Great Steamboat Race
The Ohio River
Kentucky Derby Festival Pegasus Parade
Downtown
Derby Eve Chow Wagon
Waterfront Park
Unique Derby events also include the addidas Basketball Classic, Fifth Third Bank $1 Million Dollar Hole-In-One Contest, Stock Yards Bank Great Bed Races, Run for the Rosé® and Republic Bank Parade Preview, WineFest and much more!
Festival Facts
With two-thirds of the Festival events free, families can enjoy numerous just-for-kids activities without stretching their pocketbook. By purchasing a 2007 Pegasus Pin (located at over 1,000 local retail outlets and banks), you can gain access to the many Festival events, recieve coupons and win free merchandise. From country and rock concerts to the elegant Derby Ball, dance and dress range from frivolous to fancy. The Festival includes several formal affairs, as well as casual, foot-stomping good times. More than just entertaining, the Derby Festival generates more than $93 million annually for the local economy. Festival events also raise nearly $300,000 for area charities each year. or derbyfestivalmarathon.com.
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