LIST | Events leading up to Kentucky Derby 2026

By Chris James -- Derby season is right around the corner and the rollout of events leading up to Kentucky Derby 152 are being announced. Today's Woman has put together a list of happenings in Louisville leading up to America's Favorite Race. Photo: Julie/Adobe Stock   Taste of Derby Festival – Apr. 21 More than 100 local food and beverage makers will be on hand for what’s being called an unforgettable evening of “incredible flavors, festive vibes, and feel-good impact.” This event is held at Louisville Slugger Field and supports Dare to Care [...]

Mike and Sheldon Tomes: From Allies of Women to Derby Ambassadors

Photo by Emily Maddox The Kentucky Derby is one of the most celebrated events in Louisville, and this year, we're thrilled to introduce Mike and Sheldon Tomes as the official Derby Ambassadors for the 151st running of the race. For Mike, fashion, community engagement, and socializing are not just hobbies—they’re a lifestyle. With an eye for style and an innate ability to connect with people, he’s earned his place as a prominent figure, rubbing elbows with celebrities like Paris Hilton, Jack Harlow, and Jamie Foxx. Mike's keen sense of what’s happening, from the [...]

Painting the Derby 🎨 Kim Perry’s 2025 Poster Spotlight

by Gioia Patton/Arts Insider “I'm an artist on a lifelong journey with creativity. From the colorful world of musical theatre to exploring various art forms, I've found my true passion in the strokes of a paintbrush.”  - artist Kim Perry Describing herself as “a traditional painter”, Kentucky Impressionistic Realist Painter Kim Perry works primarily with oils and uses a palette knife to add her own unique touch.  A juried member of the Oil Painters of America, Perry, who is the 2025 Kentucky Derby Festival poster artist, adds  “I love that sweet spot where classic meets [...]

The Rose Gala Returns: A Derby Night Celebration with a Purpose

As the excitement of Derby weekend builds, Louisville is gearing up for one of the most anticipated events of the season. The 2nd Annual Rose Gala, taking place on Saturday, May 3rd from 9PM to 2AM at the KFC Yum! Center, is set to dazzle guests with an unforgettable blend of elegance, music, and community impact. This isn’t just another night out—this is a celebration that gives back. Hosted by the Life Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved communities, the Rose Gala promises to be a night filled with heart and purpose. The event [...]

Celebrating 5 Years of Confidence and Beauty: Bellatox Boutique Derby Prep Party

Julie Bella Robbins, CEO & Founder of BellaTox LLC, has always had a vision: to create a place where relationships blossom and clients become friends. At Bellatox Boutique, this vision comes to life every day. The mantra at Bellatox is simple but powerful: “When you look good, you feel good, and you will leave here feeling like your best self.” This Saturday, Bellatox is celebrating a major milestone—its 5th Anniversary and Julie’s 42nd birthday! Join the celebration on Saturday, April 19th, from 10 AM to 3 PM at Bellatox Boutique, located at 217 [...]

Stars Take Center Stage at the 2025 Kentucky Derby and Oaks

This year’s Kentucky Derby weekend is already galloping toward greatness with two powerhouse women set to lead the charge. On Saturday, May 3, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Grace Potter will perform the National Anthem just after 5 p.m., continuing a long-standing Derby Day tradition. Known for her soulful voice and electrifying performances, Potter joins the ranks of past Anthem greats like Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Nettles, and Carly Pearce. With a new album, Medicine, on the way and a tour alongside Chris Stapleton this summer, Potter’s Derby moment is just the beginning of a standout [...]

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