From urban cores to rural hamlets, Kentucky chefs pride themselves on featuring locally sourced ingredients on their restaurant menus. You can find many of these products at shops and markets around the state to bring home an authentic, farm-to-table taste of Kentucky.

During our growing season (April-November), many communities host farmers markets that are worth a visit. Year-round, market stores offer Kentucky Proud foods – meaning products grown, raised or made in Kentucky. Dozens of our small-farm wineries and craft breweries sell their products on-site and at retail locations around the Commonwealth.

Many Kentucky bourbons are probably available for purchase in your hometown, but they can’t compare to buying the perfect bottle at the distillery of your choice, or discovering a rare, small-batch bourbon you won’t find anywhere else. And don’t leave Kentucky without buying some bourbon balls (yes, bourbon-flavored candy), which were invented at Rebecca Ruth Candy in Frankfort.

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It's Derby Time in Kentucky!

The Kentucky Derby, the greatest two minutes in sports, attracts more than 150,000 people to Kentucky. Attending the race is on bucket lists for racing fans around the world, but there are also events held throughout the state during Derby season for horse fans young and old. LOUISVILLE, KY The Kentucky Derby Festival is a great way to celebrate the Kentucky Derby! With over 70 events spread out during the month of April, there is something for everyone. Thunder Over Louisville, one of the nation’s largest annual fireworks extravaganzas, kicks off the celebration. And don’t miss The Great Steamboat Race, hot-air balloon events, concerts, food and so much more. LEXINGTON, KY Celebrate Oaks and Derby at the legendary Keeneland Racetrack. Whether it's a fine dining experience you crave or a lively party, Keeneland is the place to be. Enjoy Party in the Paddock with drink specials and live music, make dining reservations for the Equestrian Room, or picnic in the grandstands. No matter what you choose, it will definitely be a day to remember. FRANKFORT, KY The annual Governor’s Downtown Derby Celebration in Frankfort has many fun activities for the whole family to enjoy on Derby Day! Activities include the YMCA Derby Dash, stick horse races on the Old Capitol lawn, derby hat making, live music, food and artist exhibits just to name just a few! The event is free and open to everyone. BARDSTOWN, KY The Race is On! It’s Derby time and My Old Kentucky Home usually celebrates with a special exhibit. The 2019 exhibit included items from world-famous horse Secretariat, and racing silks from Secretariat's horse farm, The Meadows. There will even be costumes worn by Diane Lane & John Malkovich, as well as props used in Disney's hit movie Secretariat.  FRANKLIN, KY Check out the largest derby party south of Louisville at Kentucky Downs in Franklin, KY on Derby Day. More than 100 flat-screen monitors throughout the facility will show all the action from Churchill Downs. There will also be a Derby Hat Contest and rock-and-roll band AC Drive performing after the races.

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