Derby Fun Throughout the Bluegrass State

It’s Derby season in Kentucky. Not just at Churchill Downs or in Louisville, but throughout the Bluegrass State. No matter where you go in the commonwealth, you are sure to find an unforgettable Kentucky Derby experience. Every year Kentucky goes all out to celebrate

Whether you are in the grandstands at Churchill Downs and cheering on your horse, sipping on a mint julip at Keeneland, or watching a Derby themed pedal cart race in downtown Frankfort, you are in for a great time before, during, and after the race. 

Join the Festival

The Kentucky Derby Festival attracts more than 1.5 million visitors during the weeks leading up to the The Derby.  The annual festival features 70 events of every kind. From parades to marathons to elegant balls to wine festivals, the Derby City pulls out all the stops for this one-of-a-kind celebration.  

The events not to be missed include: 

• Great BalloonFest – Be sure to periodically look up at the sky see all the colorful balloons, both during the day and after the sun goes down.   

• Ken-Ducky Derby – When you think of the Kentucky Derby, the animal that comes to mind right after a horse, is a duck. Obviously. This particular derby consists of dropping around 46,000 rubber ducks into the Ohio River, the first duck that floats to the finish line wins. Each duck is purchased by a member of the community, with proceeds going to a local charity.  

• Pegasus Parade –  This family-friendly annual event showcases some of the nation’s finest marching bands and equestrian units, along with inflatable characters and colorful floats. 

• WineFest - Hosted every year on the Tuesday before The Derby, the WineFest features more than 100 wineries from around Kentucky. Taking place at the Mellwood Art Center sip on the commonwealth’s finest vino while you gaze upon spectacular works of art in the museum’s Picasso and Monet Rooms.  

Watch the Derby from Another Racetrack! 

• Kentucky Derby at Keeneland – Just 70 miles away from Churchill Downs, the entire city of Lexington will be celebrating the Run for the Roses at Keeneland. Walk the grounds of this historic racetrack as you enjoy live music, food trucks, family activities and of course the opportunity to place bets and watch the race.  

• Turfway Park Racing & Gaming Kentucky Derby Party – If you find yourself in Northern Kentucky, be sure to stop by Turfway Park in Florence. The track will feature traditional drink and food specials, hat contests, live music, and simulcast racing throughout the day. 

Citywide Derby Parties  

• Downtown Derby Day Breakfast Celebration - What better way to celebrate the Kentucky Derby than in Kentucky's capital city, Frankfort. This annual Derby morning tradition is held in the city’s downtown district, and it is perfect for adults and kids alike. Complete with food, cocktails, and games for all ages, this event will surely leave your family with lasting memories. 

   

Host Your Own Derby Party 

No matter how many people you have coming over to watch the race, there are so many ways to make your at-home Derby experience unforgettable for you and your guests. From Derby hat making to make-your-own julip bars, the possibilities are endless. Check out our tips for Hosting the Perfect Derby Party here.   

Place Your Bets! 

There are a lot of ways to pick your winner. Whether you play the odds or you just like the steed’s name, having a “horse in the race” is half the fun of going to a Derby event. If you are looking to put some money down on a pony or two, wagers can be made at any one of the racetracks and gaming centers around the commonwealth. For those watching from outside the tracks and gaming halls, bets can be made in Kentucky several sports book apps. Click here to learn more about sports wagering in Kentucky.