Posted by Julie Skaff on April 07, 2021
Three Ways to Enhance Your Kentucky Derby® Weekend
Attending the Kentucky Oaks® & Kentucky Derby® is an incredible experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
There is something about the atmosphere in Louisville on this special weekend that results in unforgettable memories that are talked about for years to come, well after the gates to Churchill Downs® are closed following the Run for the Roses.
The weekend consists of plenty of racing, but many don’t realize Derby-weekend has more exciting experiences to offer. Instead of sitting in your hotel room, we encourage people to make the most of their trip to Louisville.
Here are three ways to enhance your Derby weekend when you’re not at the races.
Attend the Fillies & Lilies Party
Where: Kentucky Derby Museum
When: Oaks Day Evening
The Fillies & Lilies Party is Derby Experiences’ annual Derby-eve party held at the Kentucky Derby Museum. As the Official Kick-Off Party to the Kentucky Derby, this sought-after ticket is the perfect cherry on top of a fun day watching the Oaks races. After the final race of the day, guests are in for an evening of incredible food, premium drinks and live entertainment at the Fillies & Lilies Party.
The Kentucky Derby Museum is closed to the public on Oaks & Derby Day, so access to Fillies & Lilies is the only way to get a glimpse of the exhibits during Derby weekend.
Attend the Barnstable Brown Gala
Looking to really go all out during Derby weekend? Attend the iconic Barnstable Brown Gala, a star-studded event that has been a Louisville tradition for over 30 years. The event offers a luxurious night of food, drinks, entertainment and raises millions for the UK Diabetes Center.
Past celebrity attendees include Tom Brady, Katie Couric, Larry David, Aaron Rodgers, Kid Rock, Stevie Wonder and more.
General Admission, VIP, and Celebrity tickets are available.
Take a Tour
Derby Experiences offers access to a variety of tour options to immerse yourself in a true Kentucky experience.
Go behind the scenes at 2-3 horse farms to learn how it operates, see the stallions, and walk the grounds with an expert guide.
Learn how some of the world’s finest bourbons are created and taste a few along the way during the Bourbon Distillery Tour.
Enjoy the best of both Kentucky worlds – horse farms and bourbon distilleries – when you visit both with an expert guide.
Interested in booking a tour for you and your Derby crew? Contact us to secure your tour.
Attend the Kentucky Derby
Don’t have Derby access yet? Secure your Official Ticket Package from Derby Experiences and our team can talk you through all the ways to create a perfect Derby-weekend itinerary.
Have Questions for us?
Fill out the form below to be contacted by one of our Derby Experiences representatives and receive updates on the event.