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Governor Steve Beshear's Communications Office
Governor, First Lady invite visitors to Capital City for Derby
Celebration to be held in historic downtown Frankfort to support local businesses, save taxpayer dollars
FRANKFORT, Ky.—Gov. Steve Beshear today announced that the annual Derby Celebration will be held in historic downtown Frankfort on Saturday, May 7, 2011, a move that will save precious state tax dollars while supporting the local economy and providing an opportunity for visitors to tour the state capital’s historic downtown. The celebration is a cooperative effort between state government, the Frankfort-Franklin County Tourism Commission and Downtown Frankfort Inc.
“For more than 30 years, Kentucky governors and first ladies have hosted a public Derby Celebration, and Jane and I feel it’s important to continue that tradition,” Gov. Beshear said. “However, since I became Governor, we have taken measures to cut the costs of the traditional Derby Day activities. By moving the celebration to downtown Frankfort, we can continue to welcome visitors to the capital city, while also introducing them to the Old Capitol, the Thomas D. Clark History Center and all the many attractions and places to eat and shop in downtown Frankfort.”
Many of the events that have become a Derby morning tradition will continue, including a farmers’ market, entertainment, a variety of arts and crafts and many children’s activities. The changes announced today reflect a continued desire to save money in this troubled economic time while maintaining the spirit of Kentucky’s signature event, Gov. Beshear said. The 2011 Derby Celebration will feature a concert on the lawn of the Old Capitol. Additional activities and details will be announced in the coming weeks.
“In the midst of frigid temperatures, Steve and I are delighted to begin planning for the annual Derby Celebration, and we look forward to hosting everyone downtown this year,” said First Lady Jane Beshear. “The celebration is about more than just the Capitol; it is about the entire Capital City. We anticipate an exciting event, and we are thrilled to coordinate with the city and county in showing off Frankfort to Kentuckians and visitors.”
Parking will be available in several public lots downtown as well as at the State Capitol in the Annex Parking Structure, with shuttle services provided from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Capitol will be open for visitors on Derby Day. The “Governor’s Derby Exhibition,” an art exhibit coordinated by the Kentucky Arts Council on behalf of Gov. Steve Beshear and First Lady Jane Beshear, will be featured in the Rotunda of the Capitol for approximately one month prior to Derby through Derby morning. The art exhibit will feature Kentucky-themed art and photography by artists from across the state. Many works are available for purchase.
The Governor’s Mansion and Old Governor’s Mansion will also be open for tours from 8 am until noon.
“Frankfort Tourism is thrilled to co-host the Governor’s Derby Celebration in our historic downtown, along with all of the partners that make it spectacular,” said Joy Jeffries, executive director of the Frankfort-Franklin County Tourism Commission. “Being the State Capital, Frankfort is the city of all Kentuckians; so what an appropriate location for this festive event.”
“Downtown Frankfort Inc. is elated to partner in the Governor’s Derby Celebration this year,” said Kelly Everman, executive director of Downtown Frankfort Inc. “On behalf of the shops, restaurants and businesses downtown we are grateful for this opportunity to welcome everyone to our historic downtown; and we are ready to shine!”
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