Well, this year is going to be a special year for the Kentucky Derby since it is their 150th anniversary. What a milestone, not just for Churchill Downs but for horse racing as a sport.

Even though the main attraction will be the race, the Kentucky Derby Festival is a great way to get into the spirit of racing. The festival is going to start 15 days before the race, and it is packed with events, celebrations, and special nights that will leave a long-lasting memory.

The Kentucky Derby Festival is crafted in a way to be enjoyed by people from 1 to 100 years old. Also, you don’t have to be an expert on horse racing or a true fan of the sport to really enjoy the event.

Although it wouldn’t hurt to know how horse racing betting works, you can use a beginner guide to horse racing betting to learn more. twinspires.com/betting-guides/beginners-guide-betting-horse-racing/

Additionally, the Road to Kentucky races have already started, so there is plenty of action to witness and bets to place.

In today’s article, we will talk more about the Kentucky Derby Festival, as well as the lineup for the most popular events that you wouldn’t want to miss.

Kentucky Derby Festival

As we mentioned before, the festival will last for quite some time, so make sure you go there weeks before the Kentucky Derby.

The celebration begins with Thunder Over Louisville, a pyrotechnic display that lights up the sky and sets the tone for the festivities. It's not just any fireworks show; it's a spectacular performance that draws audiences from all around to see the night sky transform into a kaleidoscope of colors. 

If you're feeling fancy, the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport offers a VIP Rooftop Party for an upgraded experience.

But what if you are a food lover? Well, the Taste of The Derby festival is just for you. This year, the event is scheduled to start on 16th April and it will be a foodie paradise.

It's held at Louisville Slugger Field and showcases the city's best cuisines, as well as Louisville's developing culinary industry. But the feast does not end there. The Chow Wagon at Kroger's Fest-a-Ville serves a variety of delicacies, ensuring that your taste buds are satisfied during the event.

Not a food lover but an athletic spirit? Don’t worry we got something for you too.

The miniMarathon and Marathon entice with the prospect of victory and personal bests. Maybe you want to test your stamina and strength in comparison to the horses. Meanwhile, the Great BalloonFest features a spectacular display of hot air balloons dancing in the early morning light, providing a tranquil contrast to the festival's high-energy attractions.

Another interesting thing to witness is the Pegasus Parade.

The Pegasus Parade is a staple event, including a parade of floats and inflatables that entertain both children and adults. It's a tradition that began in 1956 and continues to be a highlight, pulling thousands of people to Louisville's streets for a celebration of creativity and community.

Coming to Kentucky with your family? Try the Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville!

Kroger's Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront is the festival's center, a hive of constant activity where you can enjoy music, family entertainment, and a variety of culinary options. Admission is free with a 2024 Pegasus Pin, allowing everyone to participate in the festivities.

With over 50% of race registrations already snapped up, the festival's popularity is undeniable. It's a blend of tradition and excitement, offering something for everyone.

What to Expect?

Well, first of all, you should expect a city filled with millions of people. The Kentucky Derby Festival attracts large masses, and it is not for someone who doesn’t do well with crowds. We already mentioned that most of the tickets are already sold out, and we are months behind the festival.

So, if you are planning on going to some of the events we mentioned, make sure to book your ticket early. You wouldn’t want to overpay or be left out of the action.

Also, it is worth mentioning that this is the 150th anniversary of the Kentucky Derby, and every festival organizer is going above and beyond to celebrate this amazing milestone. So, there is no doubt that this year is going to be a special one. 

There is something for everyone. From food lovers to drinkers that enjoy a bit of bourbon, to horse racing enthusiasts and family fun.

Final Words

Most people make the same mistake of attending only the Kentucky Derby, which is fine, but in order to really experience the thrills of the race you need to come a few days early. The entire state comes to life thanks to the incredible Kentucky Derby Festival.

So, make sure you book your accommodation, browse through the events just to see which one you like the most, and get the tickets.

Pro Tip: Since the Kentucky Derby is a prestigious event, the prices for some of these events and parties can go really high. Some parties even have an entry ticket of more than $2,000. So, make sure you pick the events that go along with your budget.

Lastly, don’t forget to have fun, after all, that is what the derby is all about.