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Every year since 1875, crowds have gathered in Louisville, Kentucky to watch “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” known as the Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Derby is a 1¼ mile race for 3 year old purebred horses. The race has been held at the Churchill Downs race track since 1937.

The Kentucky Derby is known for being the oldest continuing sporting event in the United States. Derby fans include members of the royal family, celebrities and the regular folks who participate in the festivities every year. The Kentucky Derby is actually a two week long celebration that includes parties, concerts and parades leading up to the horse race which always takes place on the first Saturday of May.

The Kentucky Derby embraces the idea of athleticism, tradition and culture. One of the traditions that has been passed down over the years is the singing of “My Old Kentucky Home,” as the horses enter the track. You will also find adults sipping on frosty Mint Julips (a Bourbon mojito) and eating Burgoo (a hearty stew). The Mint Julip is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby.

And what’s with those silly hats you ask? Those big, elaborate, and sometimes completely ‘over the top’ hats worn by the Derby attendees have become such a large part of the Derby tradition that there is even a Derby Hat Parade following the race.

The Kentucky Derby is frequently referred to as “The Run for the Roses,” because the winner is draped with a blanket of 554 red roses. It is also sometimes referred to as, “The Chance of a Lifetime,” since it is the biggest race of each thoroughbred’s life. The race is crucial because the young horse only gets once chance in his lifetime.

Which horse will you pick to win the Kentucky Derby this year? Don’t forget your fancy hat!