Kentucky Derby Traditions
Kentucky Derby Day Hats:
Fancy hats have long been a tradition at the Kentucky Derby. Men, Women & Children participate in this long standing tradition. Perhaps its the Southern charm or just to keep the sun off, there are no rules when it comes to what tops your outfit on Derby Day at Churchill Downs… anything goes!
Garland of Roses:
The red rose became the official flower of the Kentucky Derby in 1904. Each year, the winning horse has a garland of more than 400 red roses draped around him at the Derby Winner’s Circle. The roses are sewn into a green satin backing which carries both the seal of the Commonwealth on one end and a picture of the Twin Spires and current race number on the other. Each year, a garland of more than 400 red roses is sewn into a green satin backing with the seal of the Commonwealth on one end and the Twin Spires and number of the race’s current renewal on the other. Each year, the garland contains a single rose pointing up near the center. It is supposed to symbolize the struggle and heart required to reach the Derby Winner’s Circle.
“My Old Kentucky Home” By Stephen Foster
Written by Stephen Foster in 1853, it was adopted as the State song of Kentucky in March of 1928 and is sung every year at the Kentucky Derby in Churchill Downs with the accompaniment of the University of Louisville Marching Band.
Song Lyrics:
The sun shines bright in My Old Kentucky home,
‘Tis summer, and people are gay;
The corn-top’s ripe and the meadow’s in the bloom
While the birds make music all the day.
The young folks roll on the little cabin floor
All merry, all happy and bright;
By ‘n’ by hard times comes a knocking at the door
Then My Old Kentucky Home, good night!
Weep no more my lady
Oh! weep no more today!
We will sing one song
For My Old Kentucky Home
For My Old Kentucky Home, far away.
