Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon 2018: Route, Course Map, Times, Event Details

The Kentucky Derby might only be two minutes long, but the festivities surrounding the event span over the course of nearly a month.

Culminating in the Run for the Roses, the Kentucky Derby Festival is a can't-miss opportunity for horse racing fans to celebrate the first leg of the Triple Crown before the competition begins.

Not only is there a festival with entertainment and various events, there is also a marathon that begins on Main Street and Brook Street before crossing the finish line at Preston Street and River Road.

Preview

Garry Jones/Associated Press

The Kentucky Derby Festival features all kinds of entertainment for those who aren't interested in horse racing.

According to the festival's official website, there are basketball, volleyball and golfing events available for attendees to participate in, along with live concerts. On top of the live entertainment, the event also features the largest annual fireworks display in North America, "Thunder Over Louisville."

The festival generates around $127.9 million each year and raises nearly $300,000 for local charities. Two-thirds of all festival events are free and open to the public. 

As for the marathon itself, here's a quick look at all the basic information you will need to know ahead of time, whether you're a spectator or runner. 

Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon 2018

Date: Saturday, April 28

6 a.m.: Gear check drop off begins at Louisville Slugger Field (corner of Floyd St. and Main St.)

7:25 a.m.: Wheelchair division start time (corner of Brook St. and Main St.)

7:30 a.m.: Marathon and mini marathon start time (corner of Brook St. and Main St.)

1:30 p.m.: Course closes (six-hour time limit).

Parking information is available here. Course information and routes can be found here, while a map is also available. 

The 2018 Kentucky Derby takes place on May 5. Post time is set for 6:50 p.m. ET.