Michael E. Berry President & CEO

Welcome to the official website for the Kentucky Derby Festival. It is your virtual ticket to the excitement we create in the Derby City. What the Run for the Roses is to horse racing, the Derby Festival is to community celebrations. The Festival is one of the premiere events of its kind in the world. It brings fun, excitement, international recognition and a spirit that is unmatched anywhere."

"We are a not-for-profit, community organization of 4,000 volunteers who work all year to provide quality entertainment that enhances the community. Produced annually since 1956, the Derby Festival has become a whirlwind of 70 special events entertaining 1.5 million people annually and millions more on-line! The Festival blasts off each April with our Opening Ceremonies - Thunder Over Louisville, now the nation's largest annual fireworks extravaganza! The ensuing two weeks of excitement and entertainment promises something for everyone. Please enjoy your tour of our "virtual" Festival. Click away to plan your visit with us in April or just stay in touch with updates and releases from our newsroom all year 'round. Shop at our gift gallery or register to run the marathon. You can celebrate the spirit of the Derby Festival no matter where you're logging in."