Kentucky Derby Festival (Approximately late March through first Saturday in May). More than 70 events leading up to the Kentucky Derby. Signature events include Thunder Over Louisville (fireworks, mid-April), Great BalloonFest, Pegasus Parade, GE Appliances miniMarathon & Marathon, and Fest-a-Ville…
Kentucky Derby (First Saturday in May (2026: May 2; 2027: May 1)). Held annually at Churchill Downs since 1875. Known as 'The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.' Oldest continuously running major sporting event in the United States. Over 165,000 attend Derby Day.
Kentucky Oaks (First Friday in May (day before the Kentucky Derby)). Grade I stakes race for three-year-old fillies, $1.5 million purse. Second highest-attended horse race in the U.S. Spectators traditionally wear pink. Winner receives the Lilies for the Fillies garland.