10 Things To Know For The Kentucky Derby

Whether it's your first time or your tenth. , you're a local, or just stopping by, here are the top 10 things your need to know for a complete Kentucky Derby experience.

10. Derby Pins

Via terapeak.com

with new designs every year the Pegasus Pin is both a ticket to many of the Derby festivities and a chance to win prizes.

9. Thunder Over Louisville

David Harpe / Via courier-journal.com

As one of the biggest firework shows in the world, Thunder Over Louisville is a must see for anyone wanting to start their Derby experience off right.

8. Mint Juleps

Alton Brown / Via foodnetwork.com

A signature drink of the Derby. The Mint Julep will surely bring a tear to the eye of anyone who enjoys a good mixed drink.

7. The Marathon

Via mybestruns.com

For the more active crowd, the Kentucky Derby Marathon, or just simply the Marathon to the locals, can be run in either a mini (13.1mi) or, for the daring, the full (26.2mi).

6. Bourbon

Via lanereport.com

Since I mentioned the Mint Julep, no trip to Kentucky is complete without sampling as many types of Bourbon that the state can offer.

5. Concerts, Concerts, and More Concerts

Via louisvilleky.gov

Music Junkies can check out dozens of different local artists playing throughout the Derby Festival.

4. The Hot Air Balloon Glow and Race

Via commons.wikimedia.org

Watch out for the charity balloon glow as dozens of hot air balloons light the night sky and fly throughout the city

3. Steamboat Race

Via travelsouthusa.com

Love em or hate em, it's not often you can see a few old fashioned steam boats racing down the Ohio River.

2. The Pegasus Parade

Via gotolouisville.com

Before the main event the Pegasus parade holds everything from the usual floats and balloons to Louisville's one and only Cardinal Marching Band.

1. The Derby

Rob Carr / Via edition.cnn.com

Yeah it's on here. What Derby Experience would it be without the Derby itself? Be it in the infield, stands, or just watching it in a place packed with friends or strangers, the Derby is the most exciting two minutes in sports.