Kentucky Derby Museum Race to 150 celebration 12-6-23

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- As of Wednesday, there are 150 days to go until the 150th Run for the Roses.

To celebrate, the Kentucky Derby Museum hosted a free community party to saddle up some excitement. Serving up hats, banjo music and roses at every turn, the event commemorated a big milestone for the most exciting two minutes in sports.

"From Pikeville to Paducah, from Mayfield to Maysville, it reminds us that the Kentucky Derby isn't just a big deal for the city of Louisville. It's a big deal for the commonwealth of Kentucky," Gov. Andy Beshear said during Wednesday's celebration. "It's a time we all come together, push the division aside and show off the very best of us and we work together to create the very best experience."

For 150 years, Churchill Downs has served as a backdrop for good times, the Twin Spires a beacon of pride for the city of Louisville.

As part of the festivities, the museum launched a time capsule and invited guests to put in photos or special mementos from the Derby that visitors will get a chance to uncover in 50 years.

Beshear added his inauguration program to the capsule, and Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg added his inauguration lapel pin.

WDRB Photojournalist Dave White also got in on the action, adding his photo as the 150th Derby will mark his 33rd year capturing the race.

The celebration was an all-day event, lasting until 7 p.m. Wednesday. To read more about how the museum is commemorating the 150th Derby, click here.

Tickets for Kentucky Derby 150 are already on sale. For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

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