"Lovely Louisville" a Louisville Travel Page by MDUBYAZ

Tradition is loosely defined as the handing down of customs from generation to generation. On the first Saturday in May, we enjoyed the Southern tradition, the pageantry, the indulgence of the Kentucky Derby. Along with 150,000 other revellers - some armed with gaudy + quite large hats, others with mint juleps in tow - but ALL with the building anticipation of the loud ring of a bell and three magic words..."And they're off". Although we didnt see every second of the race, the constant buzz and building cheer became a deafening roar as BIG BROWN made his way down the homestretch(and we were a large part of the roar as BB completed our Pick 4 bet.) Although the race ended tragically for EIGHT BELLES, she will be heroically remembered as a part of this 134 year old tradition.

At the entrance, you must get a touristy picture of CHURCHILL DOWNS in the background. Then head inside and go directly to the beverage stand and purchase a mint julep...mmmm. OK, once that is out of the way, people watch, enjoy the pageantry and let things happen. The paddock is a great area to people watch, but sadly, overly packed. Hopefully you are able to procure seats, but the infield is a huge party scene(more like a college party scene) if that is your bag.

Oh and what is missing from a day of fun, sun, and drinking...gambling. That's right, this hedonist gatheing would not be complete without it. However, please gamble responsibly and whatever you do, bet the PICK 4(we did and won!)

HATS are huge. You must observe and judge the coolest hats around. As you can tell, they come in all colors and sizes. I wish the derby was a monthly event :)