For anybody who lives in the Louisville area, it's no secret that the Kentucky Derby is the most anticipated event of the entire year. Throughout the city and its suburbs, Derby parties and special gatherings are held to celebrate in preparation of the big race. And in 2015 alone, more than 16 million people watched the Kentucky Derby live on NBC, making it the most viewed program on television for the entire month. The Derby is also one of the most heavily attended sporting events in the country, with more than 170,000 tickets sold each year!

However, the excitement and popularity of the Kentucky Derby extends past state or even national borders. People tune in to watch the events of the Derby from across the globe, and many even pay large sums of money to attend the event from out-of-state and even other countries. In fact, did you know that California is the second biggest market for Derby tickets, despite the fact that its residents live more than 2,000 miles away from Churchill Downs?

Putting on a World-Class Event

The Derby itself isn't the only event that draws in crowds and attention from all over the globe. Derby parties, such as the Fillies & Stallions Derby Eve Party, bring in celebrities from around the world to gather, have fun, and celebrate the Kentucky Derby. This event in particular sets a great example of how incredible of a show the city of Louisville is capable of putting on! The Fillies & Stallions Derby Eve Party has even brought in such celebrities as Sarah Hyland, Kym Johnson, Joey Fatone, and many more.

This year's event is sure to be one for the books. With celebrity attendees from around the globe and plenty of special plans in the works, this will certainly be one of the most exclusive Derby events of the year.