There are many Derby related activities. These range form formal black tie affairs to down home tailgate parties. Remember that the Kentucky Derby is the premiere social event both in Louisville, Lexington and Frankfort (the state capitol). For those whose interest goes beyond the Derby itself there are tours of the thourobred farms just outside Lexington. We have selected some of the established Derby activities. We will be constantly updating this site for more Derby related activities. Some are not organized or advertised until late April and these will be posted as soon as we acquire adequate information about them. If you are a formal black-tie sort then the Mint Jubilee is definitely for you. It has been a Kentucky Derby tradition for many years. This is a black tie affair. It is a fundraiser the beneficiaries being, the James Graham Brown Cancer Center, and Gilda's Club. (Named after the comedian Gilda Radner of Saturday Night Live fame) These are both non-profit organizations assisting cancer patients and their families. This event is sponsored by Southern Wine and Spirits. Jockeys usually attend this event, so if black tie affairs interest you this event is for you. This event takes place at Galt House in Louisville on May 6th at 7:00 pm. What is billed as the Worlds Largest Derby Party actually takes place in Lexington in the heart of horse breeding country. This event takes place at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, 4201 Versailles Rd. phone 859-254-4312 for more information and details for obtaining tickets. There are races throughout the day, betting windows are open, and there is even a seminar on handicapping for those of you who are unfamiliar with betting on horse races. Races are usually viewed on large television monitors so either bring a picnic or enjoy the selection of food vendors. One of the more interesting events is the Governor's Breakfast in Frankfort just a short drive from Lexington. This is a hot ticket, yet is open to the public. In 2005 16,000 people attended. It is very easy to get to (just follow the signs on I64) The breakfast takes place between the hours of 7 am to 11 am. Call the governors office for more information at 502-564-2611. The celebrity Luncheon is another tradition and is considered one of the hottest Kentucky Derby tickets. This event takes place at Churchill Downs on Thursda
y May 4th, 2006 at 11:30 AM. If you want the chance to mingle with Hollywood stars, politicians, and other celebrities then this is the event for you. If you are attending any of the events in Lexington then how about a visit to the farms of the top horse breeders in the country. Please be advised that policies vary from farm to farm but most are open to the public at this time. Maps and directions are easily available. Should you decide to visit the farms be advised that it is the custom to tip the grooms $5.00 to $10.00 for a showing. Another interesting events at Derby time is the steamboat race between the Belle Of Louisville and the Belle of Cincinnati. This is a race on the Ohio River between two restored or reconstructed steamboats reminiscent of the days when the main form of transportation between the two cities was by boat and this race is a very old tradition in this area. For more information call the Kentucky Derby Festival at box office 1001 s. 3rd St., Louisville Kentucky or call the Belle of Louisville at 502-574-2992, or call the Belle of Cincinnati at 800-261-8586. Another major event is the Republic Bank Pegasus Parade. This takes place on May 4th in Louisville, and starts at 5:00 pm. The parade route is on West Broadway from Campbell to 9th St.Bleacher tickets are available for $9.00, reviewing stand tickets are $26.00, and everywhere else along the parade route is free. The first parade was in 1956 and it keeps getting better year after year and is pretty much a family friendly event. If R&B music is your thing the 100 Black Men of Louisville is for you. This charitable event takes place on May 4th with the location to be announced. The event runs from 9:00 pm to 2:00 and features live rhythm and blues, dj's and hip hop artists. This years event features Five Men On A Stool, a blend of music and poetry and dj Steve 'Silky" Hurleg.The tickets are $100.00and the money supports award scholarships for 7th grade Black Males and various anti dropout and anti drug programs in the Black community in Louisville. If you enjoy a variety of food and music then the MEGA Chow Wagon is for you. This event takes place in Waterfront Park on the Ohio River.20 concerts are scheduled during this event featuring local, regional and national entertainers and artists. This event has continuous entertainment, a wide selection of ethnic food and the tickets are only $3.00.It will be spring in Louisville and the weather is usually nice (upper 60's to high 70's) but it is still spring so bring some raingear just in case.