LOUISVILLE, Ky. — For all the hustle and bustle of Kentucky Derby week, Monday begins quietly at Churchill Downs.
In the early hours, horses roam the track. By afternoon, the sounds of machinery fill the air. Workers and tourists mix throughout the day, getting a rare, calm glimpse of the historic venue.
"It's not crowded like it's going to be," said Steve McSwain, who was touring the track with his wife, Pam.
Tanisha Hooker, who was visiting Churchill Downs for the first time on Monday, added: "Today is beautiful, it was slow-paced -- I'm just taking it all in, just enjoying all the history."
That calm won’t last long. By Tuesday, Churchill Downs and the city of Louisville will be in the national spotlight.
"Everybody in the world knows about the Derby, and that's exciting that we're a part of that," Steve McSwain said.
"I'm just ready for the celebration, just to see how everything comes together," Hooker said.
Behind the scenes, preparation is already well underway.
"We spent Sunday and Monday putting the finishing touches on things, getting ready to host about 350,000 people over the course of Derby week," said Darren Rogers, spokesman for Churchill Downs.
More than 1,000 deliveries are scheduled to arrive Monday as final setups continue for the week ahead, including Tuesday's kickoff event, 502sday — a local day at the races. General admission is $5.
"It's a way for everyone in our community to experience the Derby week excitement at an affordable price point," Rogers said.
The festivities continue Wednesday, now rebranded as "Winsday," a day aimed at giving back to the community.
In partnership with the Community Foundation of Louisville, local nonprofit organizations will have the opportunity to raise funds and showcase their impact on the community. Guests who purchase Winsday tickets through a registered nonprofit will directly support that organization, with a portion of each ticket sale benefiting its work to make Louisville a more vibrant place to live, work and play.
"The real winners this year are going to be 50 area nonprofit organizations," Rogers said.
The momentum builds into Thursday, known locally as "Thurby," a celebration of Kentucky’s signature traditions.
"Thurby is a great way to celebrate all things Kentucky. The bluegrass, the bourbon, the horses -- we tie it all together and it's a tremendous celebration," Rogers said.
Everything culminates Friday and Saturday with the 151st running of the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby.
"It's an outstanding week to celebrate, not just the Derby and not just Churchill Downs, but really the city of Louisville and the state of Kentucky," Rogers said.
For more information about attending the races this week, visit kentuckyderby.com.
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