Governor Steve Beshear's Communications Office
Governor, First Lady Invite Visitors to Capitol City for 76th Annual Governor’s Derby Celebration

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Governor Steve Beshear and First Lady Jane Beshear today announced that the 76th annual Governor’s Derby Celebration will be held in historic downtown Frankfort for the second year in a row.  This year’s celebration will be held on Kentucky Derby Day, Saturday, May 5 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Eastern time and is free and open to the public. 

“Jane and I are thrilled to once again host visitors to our historic capitol city for this family-friendly Derby Celebration,” Gov. Beshear said.  “Downtown Frankfort has a unique blend of notable landmarks and distinctive shops and restaurants that makes it the perfect backdrop for this traditional celebration.  We look forward to having visitors join us here on Derby morning.”

Visitors can expect the traditional fare of past Derby Celebrations such as a farmer’s market, live entertainment, a variety of arts and crafts and children’s activities.  The Kentucky Pork Producers and the Kentucky Beef Producers will once again be preparing and selling delicious breakfast items to the public as well.

Many downtown Frankfort restaurants and stores will be open with unique Derby offerings during the celebration.  Visitors will also be able to tour the Capital City Museum, the Thomas D. Clark History Center, the Old State Capitol and the recently revitalized Old Governor’s Mansion, which are all located downtown.  Additional activities and details will be announced in the coming weeks. 

“Across the world, Kentucky is known for our signature Derby festivities and our time honored display of hospitality,” said First Lady Jane Beshear.  “As horse lovers, Steve and I especially look forward to helping host another unforgettable event and to welcoming guests from both near and far to our historic capitol city.” 

In light of the recent storm and tornado devastation in Kentucky, the Franklin County Chapter of the American Red Cross will be involved in the downtown Derby event this year.  Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about how the Red Cross helps in time of disaster and be able donate to the organization’s storm relief and recovery efforts.

“While this is a celebratory event, it is also a time for us to help give back to our Kentucky communities affected by last month’s destructive storms,” Gov. Beshear said.   “I thank the Red Cross for their participation in this year’s event and encourage all visitors to make a contribution of any size to help with the relief efforts.”

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