Entering the Galt House lobby on the evening of Thurby, colorful pastel balloons command the eye’s attention, making way through mazes of buzzing, excited faces ready to find out if luck is on their side this week (or, just ready to have a great time). Whether folks were just arriving to settle in for the best week of spring or already dressed to the nines, having likely tested their luck at the track early, there’s no denying that the spirit of Derby is in full swing this season.
In the Archibald Cochran ballroom, tables lined all sides and some middle spaces, smiling vendors behind them ready to serve. An open space by the stage set left the promise of a dance floor, starting off playing well-loved tunes from all eras.
On three separate occasions while wandering around the party, I overheard the words, “This is my favorite event of the season.”
It’s no secret why! Hors d’oeuvres awaited you on each side of the ballroom, as well as an array of beloved Kentucky desserts, one lady describing the bourbon ball as her real reason for showing up. Servers carrying trays of appetizers to you created a classy touch, and between wine, beer, and specialty cocktail options, no one would be going thirsty.
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Plus, an early entrance ensured getting your hands on can’t-miss merchandise, like mint julep apparel depicting the classic Old Forester tin cup or even a small cooler at the High Noon booth.
In a bright red sequined jacket, a magician wowed different folks around the room with his card tricks and performance. Sports paintings adorned the far right corner, and pop-up shops like J Coffee Jackets’ unique denim jacket designs rounded out the boutique buys. Woodford Reserve was itching to engrave custom bottles, and the photo booth backdrop donned red roses squeezed together tightly in iconic Derby imagery so you could capture the fun in perfect lighting.
As the Thursday before Oaks and Derby, Thurby is meant to showcase Kentucky’s rich heritage, ideally honoring local Louisville locals. You could perfectly personalize what Derby means to you at one unique setup at the reception—a custom print bag table, where, after you told the vendors what Derby is to you, they printed an AI-generated image onto a drawstring backpack based on your description.
Although the Call to Post Reception is without a doubt beloved for the food, fun, and free stuff, the most joy was found connecting with both travelers and locals here to experience the magic of Derby season. Between conversations with Floridians, Northerners, and locals alike, bringing together people from all corners of the country for this spring celebration reminds us how special Louisville remains.
Join the Galt House for more fun this week as we celebrate the 151st Kentucky Derby!
This article appears in Apr 25 – May 8, 2025.
