One reason the Kentucky Derby is “the most exciting two minutes in sports” is because of the slow buildup of anticipation packed with parties, parades, chow wagons, balloon races and all manner of merriment. It all begins this week at “Festival Unveiled,” where you can get a sneak peek at Kathy Sullivan’s Official Poster of the 2016 Run for the Roses and maybe a sip or more of your first mint julep of 2016. Quite fittingly, Four Roses Bourbon will hold the 13th Annual Rose Julep Recipe Contest. Everyone at “Festival Unveiled” gets to sample and vote on the best Julep prepared by local mixologists. There will be a spread of Kentucky cuisine — bourbon basted meats, deviled eggs, corn pudding and, of course, Kern’s Kitchen Derby-Pie®. It’s a big ol’ pre-Derby party certain to whet your appetite for what’s coming the first Saturday of May. Tickets can be reserved by calling the number above.