The Derby Festival is a not-for-profit, community organization of 4,000 volunteers who work all year to provide quality entertainment that enhances the community. Produced annually since 1956, the Derby Festival has become a whirlwind of 70 special events entertaining 1.5 million people annually and millions more on-line! The Festival blasts off each April with our Opening Ceremonies - Thunder Over Louisville, now the nation's largest annual fireworks extravaganza! The ensuing two weeks of excitement and entertainment promises something for everyone!