Churchill Downs News Release: Churchill Downs Celebrates Kentucky Culture at Thurby Presented by Old Forester and in Partnership With Frazier History Museum

Apr 11, 2025

Churchill Downs is set to celebrate the spirit of the Bluegrass State at Thurby presented by Old Forester on Thursday, May 1, with a full day of racing, live entertainment and Kentucky experiences in partnership with the Frazier History Museum.

Churchill Downs is bringing Frazier’s Cool Kentucky exhibition to Thurby. The event will feature the sights, sounds and stories that define Kentucky’s rich heritage – from its musical roots and bourbon legacy to local icons and trailblazers. This year’s Thurby promises something for everyone – from racing fans and history buffs to music lovers and families.

One of the day’s signature highlights is a limited-edition print giveaway, available to early attendees. A total of 250 screen print posters and 3,000 “Thurby x Frazier History Museum: Cool Kentucky” prints made by local artists on the Frazier’s exhibits team will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis at the Woodford Reserve Paddock Plaza. The collectible artwork captures the spirit of the Thurby experience and serves as a commemorative keepsake of this uniquely Kentucky day.

Live performances will showcase the rich and diverse musical heritage of Kentucky, featuring artists represented in the Frazier’s 120: Cool KY Counties exhibit: Phoebe White (Laurel County), the award-winning “yodeling cowgirl”; and Venezuelan-American pop artist Asly Toro (Jefferson County). In Churchill Downs’ premium dining rooms, guests will enjoy the handcrafted Native American flute music of Fred Nez Keams (Mercer County), blending art, culture and storytelling.

Guests can also explore immersive experiences, including the “ear X-tacy” Legacy activation by local artist Bri Bowers, which will feature the 120: Cool KY Counties playlist, Mirror Ball activation by Omega Mirror Products and tributes to local legends Tori Murden McClure and John Timmons. Family-friendly activities include a Model T photo opportunity and roving costumed characters representing Kentucky icons like Colonel Sanders and Loretta Lynn. Also, the Style Under the Spires Fashion Contest will be “Race Day Vintage” where guests are encouraged to wear timeless Derby fashion inspired by decades past.

Thurby gates open at 10:30 a.m. with the first race at 12:45 p.m. The day also features stakes races including the Opening Verse, Kentucky Juvenile and St. Matthews Overnight Stakes.

For tickets and more information, visit www.KentuckyDerby.com/Thurby.