Kentucky Derby

Today is the Kentucky Derby! Traditionally, it is held on the first Saturday of May. In past years, over 150,000 people have gathered in Louisville, Kentucky to witness the most exciting two minutes in sports. Today, a group of three-year-old Thoroughbred horses will race for the chance to win the second “jewel” of the Triple Crown. It is an occasion famous for its extravagant hats, mint julep cocktails, and general pomp and circumstance.

The history of the Kentucky Derby is as exciting as the race itself. In 1863, Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark attended the Grand Prix de Paris horse race in Paris. Inspired by what he saw, he returned to America and organized the construction of a beautiful new horse racing facility for the Louisville Jockey Club. Today we know it as the Churchill Downs. The first Kentucky Derby race took place at the track in 1875.

To celebrate this exciting annual event, host a Kentucky Derby watch party with friends and family!