Your Off-Track Guide to the Kentucky Derby

Known as “the greatest two minutes in sports,” the Kentucky Derby has drawn crowds to Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, since 1875. As the first leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, the famed one-and-a-quarter mile race is held annually on the first Saturday in May and draws an estimated 175,000 fans. 

Cheering on your favorite horse with a Mint Julep in hand is, of course, a draw of the big day, but Louisville comes alive with dozens of events leading up to the big race, too. Grab your pals and your finest hat and enjoy these Derby-themed festivals, brunches, concerts, and more. 

Begin with a bang 

The annual Kentucky Derby Festival takes place for two weeks leading up to the main event and features a marathon, hot-air balloon events, live concerts, paddle-boat races, and a parade. Thunder Over Louisville is a big-time pyrotechnics display over the Ohio River and the official kick-off to the annual festival.  

Gather in the morning at Waterfront Park’s North Great Lawn and enjoy food and drinks from over 100 vendors, plus kid-friendly activities before the afternoon airshow begins. Looking for something next-level? Spring for VIP access to the rooftop party. 

Have a ball 

The Kentucky Derby Museum, which offers interactive exhibits, a free stable, and family fun any time of year, hosts a ball in honor of the Derby. This year, the event includes cocktails, a seated dinner, live music, and a viewing of “The Greatest Race,” the museum’s 360-degree, immersive film experience. 

The museum is buzzing the entire week leading up to the derby, too. Its popular “Thurby” brunch, a name given by locals to the Thursday before the derby, includes food, cocktails, and horse-racing industry guests.  

The Friday evening before the event includes Fillies & Lilies, and race day kicks off with the Biscuits & Bourbon brunch at the museum. Mimosas, bourbon, and decadent breakfast options before the run for the roses.  

Soak in the history  

Open for over a century, Wagner’s Pharmacy is a small diner located on S. 4th Street, just steps from the racetrack. Its interlaced history with Churchill Downs is documented all over the walls, which features a collage dedicated to past Derby winners and famous visitors.  

For a Derby-themed watering hole, head over to the Black Jockeys Lounge, which celebrates the history of Black jockeys. 

Sample the Derby 

A wide variety of chefs, from New York City to Mississippi, descend on Louisville for the annual Taste of Derby event. Sample dishes from these celebrity and award-winning chefs as they draw inspiration from each of the races and locations leading up to the Derby. The event helps raise awareness and money for hunger relief organizations, namely Dare to Care, a local food bank. 

Support the neighborhood 

Experience Derby fever like a local at Sherby, a huge neighborhood street party held annually the night before the race in the Highlands on Sherwood Avenue. The high-energy event includes bourbon cocktails, live music by local musicians, and food trucks.  

Breakfast for a cause  

Fill up on the most important meal of the day at historic Farmington on Bardstown Road, where the Historic Homes Foundation kicks off Derby Day with a locally sourced breakfast, including an open bar and live music. Proceeds help the foundation preserve several of Kentucky’s historic sites, including the Farmington, the Thomas Edison House, and the Whitehall Mansion and Gardens. 

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