How We Know It's Spring In Kentucky

While in most parts of the world people are looking for signs of spring such as flowers, birds, frogs, and rain, here in Kentucky there is only one sign to let us know it is spring.

The Kentucky Derby!

If you are not from Kentucky, you probably can't understand. The Kentucky Derby is not just a three minute race. It's almost two weeks worth of events. When I used to have an office job this was our motto:

It all starts with Thunder Over Louisville which is not just a spectacular (around 30 minutes set to music) fireworks show, but during the day there is an air show. (Which I could do without, but hubby loves!) There are food vendors and nearly half a million people to watch. If the weather is decent, it's the place to be!

Me and my girlfriends at Thunder 2009 - I'm in the pink tank, not my best photo (it's spring, I hadn't lost my winter weight yet!)

Just a small taste of the 30 minute fireworks show from Thunder 2009

After Thunder there is something almost every day. A Hot Air Balloon Race, A Steamboat Race, Run For The Rose', Bed Races, A Marathon, A Spelling Bee, A Basketball Tournament, A Pro-Am Golf Tournament, and more!

Then it all culminates with the horse race, which if you go is another event in itself. At the race you'll not only find people in equestrian apparel but more importantly it's all about dressing well and wearing a big 'ol hat! Well, that is unless you're in the infield... then it's just about the party!

The hats are important!

Always a party in the infield...

So, if you judge spring by the Derby... there's just 105 days and it'll be here! And, it can't come soon enough!