Kentucky Derby Festival

The Kentucky Derby Festival has grown by leaps and bounds since the Pegasus Parade first marched east on Broadway in 1956. From a meager first year budget of only $640, the Festival has grown to more than 70 events each spring, attracting an estimated 1.5 million patrons and generating over $100 million for the local economy. For many locals, the Festival marks the beginning of Derby Season, and the best time of year to be a Louisvillian. This exhibit has been updated in February 2024 with brand new artifacts and visuals of the numerous Festival events.