Kim Perry’s artwork beautifully captures the essence of the Derby, showing that its true magic lies not just in the race, but in the people, the traditions, and the vibrant spirit of Louisville…
The Kentucky Derby Festival has
officially unveiled its 2025
commemorative poster, an annual
tradition that celebrates the spirit of
Louisville and the excitement leading up
to the world-famous Kentucky Derby.
This year’s artwork, created by
renowned local artist Kim Perry, has
been described as “a love letter to
Louisville,” capturing the vibrancy,
culture, and energy of the city during
Derby season.
A Celebration of Louisville’s Heart and Soul
Each year, the Kentucky Derby Festival
selects a talented artist to design a poster
that embodies the essence of the festival.
For 2025, Kim Perry took on the honor of
creating this iconic piece, pouring her
passion for Louisville into every detail.
“This poster is my love letter to
Louisville,” Perry said at the unveiling
event. “The Derby Festival isn’t just about
horse racing; it’s about the people, the
traditions, and the way this city comes
alive in the weeks leading up to the race.
I wanted to capture that energy, that joy,
and that sense of community.”
The artwork features a striking
combination of bold colors and intricate
details that highlight some of the
festival’s most beloved elements. A deep
blue sky serves as the backdrop,
illuminated by the dazzling fireworks of
Thunder Over Louisville. Hot air
balloons from the Great Balloon Race
float gracefully, while the Belle of
Louisville steamboat glides along the
river, a nod to the city’s rich history.
The poster also incorporates iconic
imagery like the Pegasus, a long-standing
symbol of the Kentucky Derby Festival,
and stylized roses, a tribute to the Derby
itself. The interplay of these elements
creates a dynamic and lively composition
that perfectly encapsulates the festival’s
magic.
From Canvas to Collectible
The Kentucky Derby Festival poster has
become a cherished keepsake for both
locals and visitors alike. Fans of the
festival eagerly anticipate each year’s
design, making it a popular collector’s
item. The 2025 edition will be available
in several formats, including:
– **Standard Poster ($30):** A high-
quality print perfect for framing.
– **Limited Edition Signed Poster ($60):**
Only 500 of these will be available, each
hand-signed by the artist.
– **Special Merchandise:** The artwork
will also be featured on apparel,
including T-shirts, sweatshirts, and tote
bags, available for purchase at select
Kroger stores and A Taste of Kentucky
beginning in March.
Building Excitement for Derby Season
The unveiling of the official poster marks
the unofficial start of the Kentucky Derby
Festival, a month-long celebration
leading up to the “Greatest Two Minutes
in Sports.” The festival brings together
thousands of people for a series of events
that showcase Louisville’s unique
culture, from the elegant Fillies Derby
Ball to the adrenaline-pumping Pegasus
Parade.
With Perry’s artwork setting the tone,
anticipation for this year’s festivities is
higher than ever. The Kentucky Derby
Festival team is planning a series of
exciting events, including concerts,
marathons, and, of course, the legendary
Thunder Over Louisville fireworks
display.
“The Derby Festival is all about
community, tradition, and celebration,”
said festival spokesperson Megan Morris.
“Kim’s design beautifully captures that
spirit, and we’re thrilled to share it with
the world as we gear up for another
unforgettable Derby season.”
Where to Get Your 2025 Kentucky Derby Festival Poster
Fans eager to own a piece of Derby
history can purchase the poster and
festival merchandise online or at select
retail locations. The official Kentucky
Derby Festival website will provide
additional details on availability and
purchasing options.
Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian or
a first-time visitor, this year’s poster is a
stunning tribute to the passion, tradition
and excitement that make the Kentucky
Derby Festival one of the most beloved
events in the country. As Kim Perry’s
design reminds us, the magic of the
Derby isn’t just in the race—it’s in the
people, the traditions, and the city itself.
