Five Things to Put on Your Derby Bucket List

Don’t deprive yourself of having the full Derby experience of your lifetime. Here are a few events worth adding to your bucket list.


The Sweet Taste of Goodwill
Spend the day sampling delicious foods and beverages from more than 65 local restaurants at the Kentucky Derby Festival “Taste of Derby Festival.” The event, which benefits Dare to Care, features a bourbon tasting, wine tasting, and silent auction. When April 24 @ 5:30-8pm Where Louisville Slugger Field Tickets available in advance only Contact 502.966.3821


Get into the Groove
Show off your best dance moves at the second annual Senior Derby Dance sponsored by Senior Helpers, Magnolia Springs, and Thrive Memory Care. Attendees can participate in a Derby hat contest, play bingo, and get valuable information from senior services vendors at the event. When April 26 @ 11am-3pm Where The Jeffersonian (10617 Taylorsville Road) Tickets $5 (includes a box lunch) Contact 502.890.9409

Toast it Up
WineFest is a wine lover’s paradise. Learn everything you’ve wanted to know about wine through tasting sessions, and enjoy food samplings.  When May 1-2 Where Belvedere Tickets $10 designated driver; $45 general admission; $85 VIP experience. Find more details here.


Go Full Steam Ahead
Experience the excitement aboard the Belle of Louisville during the Great Steamboat Race. Enjoy a night of cruising on the Ohio River, which also includes food, drinks, and entertainment. When May 2 @ 4:30-5:30pm boarding; race begins at 6pm Tickets $130 Contact 502.584.3378


Attend a Gala (and help kids)
If you’re in the mood for dressing up and mingling with celebrities, plan to attend the Unbridled Eve Gala. The black-tie optional event features a cocktail reception, silent auction, gourmet dinner, and live entertainment from the Louisville Crashers and DJ Second Nature. Proceeds from the gala benefit Blessings in a Backpack. When May 4 @ 7pm Where Galt House Tickets Individual dance party, $350; individual VIP, $1,700; individual tickets, $1,250 (3.5 percent credit card transaction fee applies) Find more details here.