When you live in Louisville, Kentucky, you know that most of the month of April is devoted to preparing for the Kentucky Derby that is held on the first weekend in May. The event attracts 100,000 visitors, many from out of town, and brings well over $200 million to the city. Many of the events so associated with the Derby are underwritten by corporate sponsors to ensure plenty of activities even for people who don't attend the race.
Off To the Races?
You might say, "if you live in Louisville, why wouldn't you go to the race?” Going to the event is a pricey affair. The celebrities who sit in Millionaires Row, decked out in pricey hats, pay $5,000 for a seat and a buffet lunch. Tickets to see the race at Churchill Downs start at $65 per person for admission to the infield. Few attendees in the infield can see the race, but enjoy the spirit of the day, fueled by $11 mint juleps, hot dogs, barbecue sandwiches, Derby Pie, and other fare. Many Louisville citizens prefer to celebrate the event in bars or at backyard parties.
Pegasus Pins
Even if you aren't planning on attending the horse race itself, there is plenty to do to get you in the spirit. In the weeks preceding the Derby, the city hosts many events that are free to the public. The only requirement is to buy a five dollar Pegasus pin available throughout the city. Once the pin is registered, pin holders are free to come to at least 30 other free events. Amidst the parades, marathons, golf events, festivals, winetasting, and dinners that will continue through May 4 are many charity events. Some non-profits earn much of their annual budget from Derby-time fundraisers.
Reach Out To Louisville
Even without a pin, you can participate in one of the greatest events of all - the Mayors Week of Service known as Give A Day encourages citizens to contribute volunteer service to Louisville nonprofits. Whether you're interested in working with organizations that fight hunger, care for animals, promote clean water throughout the world, or serve other needs in Louisville, you can contribute some time. The hope is that you'll make volunteering part of your life long after the event. Even if you missed signing up this time, you can keep the spirit of Louisville alive in a way that does not involve a big outlay of funds.
Starting With A Bang
On Saturday, April 20th, the Kentucky Derby Festival with start out with a bang – literally - with Thunder Over Louisville, an airshow and major fireworks display. Louisville will party by the waterfront and throughout the city, and everyone is invited for a day of eating, drinking, shopping, kid's activities, and music by the river before the show. Based on post years, attendance can top 800,000.
You can click here to find a complete schedule of Derby-related activities here that prove can enjoy the festivities even if you never set foot in Churchill Downs.
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Note: Given the terrible events of the last week at the Boston Marathon, there may be last-minute changes in security measures at Thunder and other public events during Derby season.
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