Kentucky Derby Festival
About this event
The Kentucky Derby Festival is a cultural festival in Louisville, Kentucky, at Louisville metro riverfront and downtown. The 2026 event takes place Apr 2–30, 2026. Two weeks of Pegasus-pin pageantry leading up to the Kentucky Derby, with more than 70 events including Thunder Over Louisville, the Great Balloon Race, Kroger's Fest-a-Ville on the waterfront, the Pegasus Parade, bed races, steamboat races, and the Humana miniMarathon. Louisville's signature spring festival since 1956.
Annual, April leading up to the Kentucky Derby
Location & directions
Louisville metro riverfront and downtown, Louisville, KY
Frequently asked questions
When is Kentucky Derby Festival 2026?
Kentucky Derby Festival takes place Apr 2–30, 2026 in Louisville, Kentucky. Annual, April leading up to the Kentucky Derby
Where is Kentucky Derby Festival held?
Kentucky Derby Festival is held in Louisville, Kentucky, at Louisville metro riverfront and downtown, Louisville, KY.
What is Kentucky Derby Festival?
Two weeks of Pegasus-pin pageantry leading up to the Kentucky Derby, with more than 70 events including Thunder Over Louisville, the Great Balloon Race, Kroger's Fest-a-Ville on the waterfront, the Pegasus Parade, bed races, steamboat races, and the Humana miniMarathon.
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