Like many Louisville residents, the weeks leading up to the Kentucky Derby are exciting and busy. Whether you are shopping for that perfect hat, suit, or dress to wear to race day, or you are working hard to perfect your Mint Julep recipe, Derby days are a Kentucky tradition. While some prefer to take in the festivities from the comfort of their own homes, either with friends or family, others venture out to Churchill Downs for a fun day at the races. And you don’t have to be on Millionaires Row to enjoy the Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Derby is a Kentucky tradition, one that everyone partakes in.
It is famously called “the greatest two minutes in sports” and Kentuckians are proud to claim this title as their own. This year, the 140th running of the Kentucky Derby promises to be no different. On Saturday, May 3rd, people from all over the world will descend on Louisville, Kentucky to partake in the excitement that Louisville residents proudly offer. The road to the Kentucky Derby is not for the faint of heart. In all, there are 34 races that are part of the Road to the Kentucky Derby Series, while 16 of them are part of the Championship Series in the 10 weeks before the actual Derby.
In the spirit of true hospitality, the events surrounding the Kentucky Derby are rivaled by no other. As celebrities, foreign dignitaries, and out-of-town guests come to Louisville to experience the Kentucky Derby, they are treated to a variety of parties that show them all that Louisville has to offer. To accommodate the celebrity presence at the event, Churchill Downs now provides a special VIP red carpet experience for VIP attendees and their guests. The guest list has ranged from foreign royalty to movie stars to U.S. Presidents. If you are looking for a more relaxed experience for the Kentucky Derby, the Infield boasts of Mardi Gras like partying for the more adventurous and a family-friendly atmosphere on the other end.
If making the trek down to Churchill Downs is not for you, join with countless other Derby enthusiasts and host your own Kentucky Derby party. It can be as simple as a meal with friends, to a full out spread complete with the big hats, risky bets, and frothy Mint Juleps. Regardless of where you choose to watch the Kentucky Derby, like every year, the annual “running of the roses” promises to be a festive time for everyone.
