LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky Derby Festival Touring Parade returned with a new route this year.

What You Need To Know

  • The Kentucky Derby Festival's Touring Parade returned for a fourth year

  • The parade route looped through local parks, improving accessibility for the public

  • Nearly 20 units joined the travel display, with an appearance from 2024 Derby Festival Board Chair Erin Rasinen

  • The Pegasus Parade will return April 28

The parade traveled through various parks Saturday in Louisville. It looped through Chickasaw, Shawnee, Waterfront and Iroquois parks. 

The goal of the new route was to make the event more accessible for the public. 

“We have folks that are in wheelchairs or walkers that may not be able to go down to the regular parade route,” said Dwight Newton, Zoeller Company chief people officer.

The touring parade featured six inflatable balloon characters: Zoeller Pump Company (Goldie Pegasus), UofL Health (Cardinal Bird), Waystar, Da’Ville Dog, Festival Frog and Electric Elephant. Nearly 20 units joined the travel display, and parade-goers saw an appearance from 2024 Derby Festival Board Chair Erin Rasinen and the 2024 Royal Court.

“It's just about the people in this community," Newton said. "We've been here 85 years, and we want to support the community."

Zoeller Pump Company is the title sponsor of the Touring Parade and the Pegasus Parade, which returns April 28. The Pegasus Parade will kick off Derby Week.

“Louisville is our home, and being able to participate with the Kentucky Derby Festival is an honor," Newton said. "We love this city and all of our team members, customers, suppliers and shareholders. This partnership is just one way we can give a little back."

This year’s theme is “Celebrating Derby 150” and will feature nearly 100 units, including inflatables, floats, marching bands and equestrians.

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