It’s Derby Day, and I couldn’t be more excited! (Unless I were there; that would be splendid!) Here’s a brief history and some photos in honor of the big day.
Although horse races were held in Kentucky as far back as 1789, the Kentucky Derby officially began in 1875, when Churchill Downs opened its doors. Known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” the Derby takes place on the first Saturday of May in Louisville, Kentucky. Today, the focus is more about the big hats and Mint Juleps rather than the race, and it’s a great excuse to dress up in your best Lilly or Seersucker suit to celebrate with friends.
Fun Fact: My dear friend, Liz, informed me that the Derby has never been canceled--not even during WWII, for which they were harshly criticized.
Check http://www.kentuckyderby.com/party/food-and-entertainment/libations/early-times-mint-julep for recipes for your very own Derby Day party. Cheers!
Edit: Congrats to Animal Kingdom, the winner of the 137th Kentucky Derby!
(Images from KentuckyDerby.com and Skysports.com)
