LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Modifications are the name of game in 2021, including traditional events for the Kentucky Derby Festival.

First, Thunder Over Louisville, the annual aerial and fireworks show, will not offer a waterfront venue for spectators, but will still be presented in a way that the public can safely witness.

CEO Matt Gibson explains, “What we have to do is produce it in a very safe space that doesn't gather folks together, meets all of the Governor's restrictions, and safety protocols."

Second, the Pegasus Parade will not gather on Broadway, but commemorative pins will still be sold.

“We know the pins are a welcome sign of warm weather, Kentucky Derby Festival, and a tradition we wanted to continue when so much has changed," Gibson said.

 And finally, for both avid and casual runners, the racing experience for the Mini, Marathon, and Tour De Lou will differ this year.

"They will start from their car and work their way through the start, running, and work their way back. One of our great partners has provided enough masks for us that should somebody lose theirs along the way, we will provide those. It’s a very low contact, self-supported event where we will have very limited contact with the runners even at the start, finish, and on the course, but they will be fully supported as they have been in the past," Gibson said.

 The Kentucky Derby Festival takes place in late April and is held two weeks leading up to the Kentucky Derby.