June 4, 2025

Kentucky Derby Festival Launches Inaugural ParadeFest

News Summary

The Kentucky Derby Festival is hosting its inaugural ParadeFest on June 7 at Zoeller Pump Company. The free family-friendly event promises inflatables, arts and crafts, food stalls, and a festive atmosphere, as it aims to celebrate summer and bring families together after a previous cancellation due to weather. As a precursor to the 70th Pegasus Parade anniversary in 2025, the event underscores the community engagement efforts of the Kentucky Derby Festival and its sponsors.

Louisville, KY – The Kentucky Derby Festival (KDF) is set to host its inaugural Zoeller Pump Company ParadeFest on Saturday, June 7, from noon until 4 p.m. at the Zoeller Pump Company located at 3649 Cane Run Road. Admission to this new family-friendly event is free, aiming to sustain the festive spirit of the Kentucky Derby Festival.

The ParadeFest event, which includes various activities such as inflatables, arts and crafts, and food stalls, was initially intended to take place on April 5. However, it was canceled due to inclement weather conditions. This relaunch is viewed as an opportunity for families to come together and celebrate as the summer kicks off, rekindling the festive atmosphere that accompanies this time of year.

Zoeller Pump Company, a long-time sponsor of the KDF, is also supporting this event, underscoring its commitment to community engagement and celebration. The KDF President and CEO expressed optimism that attendees will enjoy a memorable afternoon filled with fun and entertainment. The Chief People Officer of Zoeller further emphasized the significance of such festivities in marking the beginning of the summer season.

The ParadeFest event serves as a prelude to the 70th anniversary of the Pegasus Parade, set to be celebrated in 2025. The Pegasus Parade is a hallmark of the Kentucky Derby Festival, first established in 1956 with a modest budget of just $640, evolving into one of the festival’s most prominent events over the years.

Other scheduled activities in conjunction with the Kentucky Derby Festival this year include the ongoing Stock Yards Bank $1 Million Dollar Hole-In-One Golf Contest, which takes place until April 27, excluding Easter Sunday. These events are part of a broader array of activities leading up to Derby morning.

This year, the annual Fest-a-Ville celebration returns for its 19th season, offering free admission for those in possession of the 2025 Pegasus Pin. The Chow Wagon will also be present at Waterfront Park as part of Fest-a-Ville, featuring live music and a variety of activities designed for all ages. As part of the athletic segment of the festival, participants can engage in the Kentucky Derby Festival 5K, GE Appliances miniMarathon, and the full marathon, adding a sporty edge to the celebrations.

The theme for the upcoming 2025 Pegasus Parade is “Happy Derby: Pink Out Party!” encouraging participants to wear pink. Additionally, the popular Great Bed Races will see teams racing on beds mounted on wheels, continuing a beloved local tradition. The historic Great Steamboat Race has been a staple event since 1963, with the Belle of Cincinnati emerging victorious in the recent 2024 competition.

This year, Elizabeth King was crowned as the 2025 Kentucky Derby Festival Queen at the Fillies Derby Ball. A senior at the University of Kentucky, she is pursuing degrees in Finance and Flute Performance. The royal court also includes five other members, each benefiting from $2,000 scholarships provided by The Fillies, Inc. and the Kentucky Derby Festival Foundation.

With the combination of events leading up to the festival, attendees can look forward to a variety of engaging activities that celebrate the rich tradition of the Kentucky Derby Festival while promoting community spirit.

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