LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The countdown is on to the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby, meaning more than 70 events in the weeks leading up to Saturday, May 4. As part of this year's Derby Festival, several new events are on the schedule for fans of all ages. 

Fans can start celebrating at Churchill Downs, where more than 150 artistic horse statues will be on display Friday, March 22 through Sunday, March 24 for the Gallopalooza Collection Preview and Unveiling, taking place 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free with a 2024 Pegasus Pin, and visitors will also get to see the Kentucky Derby Traveling exhibit.

Also approaching is the Kentucky Derby Museum Hat Show, taking place Sunday, March 24 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Visitors can get an exclusive look at the latest couture designs from the museum's featured milliners, the festival said, along with the chance to enjoy cocktails, brunch bites and a runway show highlighting the latest hat and jewelry trends. Tickets and more information can be found on the Derby Museum's website.

Sports enthusiasts can also get their fill. Louisville City FC will face Indy Eleven Saturday, April 6 at 4 p.m. at Lynn Family Stadium, with fans encouraged to purchase a limited-edition LouCity/Derby Festival scarf and warm-up top. Two weeks later is the Louisville Spring Football Game, set for Friday, April 19 at 7 p.m. at L&N Stadium. More information about both events can be found on LouCity.com and GoCards.com, respectively.

Children and those perhaps looking for a more laid-back atmosphere can attend the Children's Tea with the Derby Festival Princesses presented by the Fillies Inc., set for Sunday, April 21 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Mellwood Art Center. Tickets are $35, and the theme is "Tea in the Candy Kingdom."

Finally, the Hats, Bowties and Bourbon Derby Day Party is set for May 4 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Mellwood Art Center, DaVinci Room. The Kentucky Community Enrichment Foundation (KCEF) hosts the party, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Louisville Kappa League, a youth mentorship program helping with college preparation and tutoring. Attendees must be 21 or over.

The Derby Festival added new attractions are set for the 2024 edition of Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront. Details will be released in the coming weeks.