Thurby 2025 Celebrates Cool Kentucky Culture

May 01, 2025 Kentucky Derby

Thurby 2025: A Cool Kentucky Celebration Under the Twin Spires

Thurby 2025, presented by Old Forester, turned Churchill Downs into a vibrant celebration of Kentucky’s soul, spirit, and story. As part of Derby Week’s evolving tradition, this year’s event was held in partnership with the Frazier History Museum and themed 'Cool Kentucky'—a tribute to the culture, music, history, and flavor that define the Bluegrass State.

Thurby brought together racing fans, music lovers, and history buffs for a uniquely Kentucky experience.

A Showcase of Kentucky Heritage and Horsepower

From the opening race to the final call, guests enjoyed a 12-race card that included three thrilling stakes races: the 31st Running of the Kentucky Juvenile won by Pinky Finger, the 4th Running of the St. Matthews Overnight Stakes won by Fort Bragg, and the 20th Running of the Opening Verse won by Brilliant Berti. But the magic of Thurby extended far beyond the track.

Event Highlights:

• Woodford Reserve Paddock Plaza Live Entertainment: Thurby pulsed with energy thanks to a stellar lineup of musical performances curated by the Frazier History Museum’s 'Musical Kentucky' exhibit. Genres ranging from bluegrass to gospel lit up the day, including a standout performance by Kentucky’s own Phoebe White, known for her soulful yodeling and southern charm.
• Dining Room Entertainment: Guests in premium dining areas were treated to the enchanting sounds of Fred Nez Keams, a master craftsman of Native American flutes. His music celebrated cultural harmony and artistic heritage.
• Recognition Moments: The 'Iconic Kentucky' exhibit honored the legacies of game-changing Kentuckians like Tori Murden McClure, the first woman to row solo across the Atlantic, and ear X-tacy, the legendary Louisville record store that shaped the city’s indie music scene.
• Cool Kentucky Photo Ops: From Omega's mirror ball disco activation to a Model T car throwback moment and the Old Forester bourbon journey, fans snapped Insta-worthy photos capturing the eclectic spirit of Kentucky.
• Style Under the Spires Fashion Contest: Vintage flair took center stage during the always-popular Thurby fashion contest. Held at the Omega Mirror Ball Wall between Races 7 and 8, guests in their best race-day retro looks dazzled the crowd for a chance at fabulous prizes.

@churchilldowns These fashionista’s understood the assignment 💅🏻 #ChurchillDowns #KentuckyDerby #Fashionista #Hats ♬ Shake & Dance -- Ty Causey

Old Forester: Spirit of Kentucky

No Thurby celebration would be complete without a nod to bourbon. This year, Old Forester’s 'Spirit of Kentucky' activation invited guests on a journey through the legacy of the first bottled bourbon brand, from its 1870 founding to its modern-day renaissance. It was a true toast to Kentucky pride.

Thurby: A True Bluegrass Tradition

Thurby continues to grow as a signature Derby Week celebration, loved for its local flair and deep ties to Kentucky culture. Whether you came for the races, the music, the bourbon, or the heritage, one thing was certain: Thurby 2025 delivered an authentic and unforgettable slice of the Bluegrass State.

Plan Ahead for More Derby Week Magic

With Thurby in the books, Derby Week surges forward toward the excitement of Oaks Day and the grand tradition of the Kentucky Derby.