: Before the race begins, the crowd joins in singing "My Old Kentucky Home," a tradition dating back decades.
: The event draws royalty, presidents, and celebrities, many of whom have their own dedicated entrance to the track.
The event is as much a high-society gala as it is a horse race, defined by specific cultural traditions: nicolette shea kenfucky derby
: It serves as the first leg of the Triple Crown , followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. 5 Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby | EF Go Ahead Tours
: Founded by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. in 1875, it was inspired by the Epsom Derby in England. : Before the race begins, the crowd joins
The Derby is famously called "the most exciting two minutes in sports," referring to the brief duration of the 1.25-mile race.
: Attendees typically wear "Sunday best" attire. For women, this means floral dresses and extravagant, often flamboyant, hats that became a staple in the 1960s. Men often wear pastel-colored suits, seersucker patterns, and bowties. 5 Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby |
: The Mint Julep is the official drink, with over 120,000 served during the weekend using thousands of pounds of fresh mint and bourbon.