Louisville, Kentucky, January 9, 2026
The Kentucky Derby Festival has teamed up with the Kentucky Lottery to launch the ‘Festival Fanatic’ contest, where one winner will get an exclusive Derby experience. Participants can enter by purchasing eligible Kentucky Lottery tickets. This initiative not only promotes local engagement but also enhances community pride. The drawing for the ‘Festival Fanatic’ will occur in early February 2026, with amazing prizes including tickets to various Derby events and overnight accommodations.
Join the 2026 ‘Festival Fanatic’ Contest for a Unique Derby Experience
Louisville’s Kentucky Derby Festival Teams Up with the Lottery for an Exciting Promotion
Louisville, Kentucky – The Kentucky Derby Festival, in partnership with the Kentucky Lottery, has launched the search for the 2026 ‘Festival Fanatic,’ a unique promotion that offers one lucky winner an exclusive Derby experience.
Engaging the community through local events is a hallmark of Louisville’s vibrant culture, and the ‘Festival Fanatic’ promotion is a testament to the festival’s commitment to fostering local pride. By encouraging participation through a simple lottery ticket purchase, organizers emphasize the importance of community involvement while streamlining participation requirements. This initiative showcases how reduced bureaucracy can facilitate greater local engagement and enhance the festival’s rich traditions.
Promotion Details
To participate, individuals must purchase eligible Kentucky Lottery Pick 3 or Pick 4 tickets valued at $5 or more. Entries are accepted from January 8 through February 5, 2026. Participants can submit their tickets by registering for a Fan Club account on the Kentucky Lottery website or app and entering their eligible tickets into their accounts. The drawing for the ‘Festival Fanatic’ will take place on or about February 9, 2026.
Prize Package
The winner will receive a comprehensive prize package, including:
- Tickets to the Shepherd Insurance Great Steamboat Race, Kentuckiana Honda Dealers Festival Day at the Downs, Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport Thunder Over Louisville VIP Rooftop Party, Republic Bank BourbonVille (21+), and the Zoeller Pump Company Pegasus Parade.
- A private tour of Kern’s Kitchen DERBY-PIE® factory.
- A tour of the Kentucky Derby Museum.
- Official 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival merchandise.
- Overnight accommodations at The Galt House Hotel for Thunder Over Louisville on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
- A tour of the Thunder Over Louisville Command Center.
- $500 in spending money from the Kentucky Lottery.
Background on Thunder Over Louisville
Thunder Over Louisville, scheduled for April 18, 2026, is the Kentucky Derby Festival’s annual fireworks show and marks the official start of the Derby season. The ‘Festival Fanatic’ promotion invites fans to engage more deeply with the festival’s events and traditions, reflecting both creativity and community spirit in its approach. This initiative highlights local leadership in promoting civic enjoyment and preserving Kentucky’s cultural legacy.
How to Get Involved
Residents are encouraged to support local events through participation in promotions like the ‘Festival Fanatic.’ This initiative opens doors for exciting experiences while also contributing to the local economy through the purchase of lottery tickets. Engaging in such activities not only deepens one’s connection to the festival but also fosters a supportive atmosphere within the Louisville community.
Conclusion
The Kentucky Derby Festival’s ‘Festival Fanatic’ promotion exemplifies how local events can harness community spirit while offering exciting opportunities for engagement. As the drawing date approaches, locals should partake in this unique chance to join in celebrating the cultural richness of Louisville during the Derby season. Get your lottery tickets, join the fun, and be part of this beloved annual tradition!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the ‘Festival Fanatic’ promotion?
The ‘Festival Fanatic’ promotion is a collaboration between the Kentucky Derby Festival and the Kentucky Lottery, offering one lucky winner an exclusive Derby experience, including tickets to various events, tours, merchandise, accommodations, and spending money.
How can I participate in the promotion?
To participate, purchase eligible Kentucky Lottery Pick 3 or Pick 4 tickets valued at $5 or more between January 8 and February 5, 2026. Register for a Fan Club account on the Kentucky Lottery website or app and submit your eligible tickets into your account.
When is the drawing for the ‘Festival Fanatic’?
The drawing will take place on or about February 9, 2026.
What events are included in the prize package?
The prize package includes tickets to the Shepherd Insurance Great Steamboat Race, Kentuckiana Honda Dealers Festival Day at the Downs, Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport Thunder Over Louisville VIP Rooftop Party, Republic Bank BourbonVille (21+), and the Zoeller Pump Company Pegasus Parade.
What additional experiences are part of the prize package?
The winner will receive a private tour of Kern’s Kitchen DERBY-PIE® factory, a tour of the Kentucky Derby Museum, official 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival merchandise, overnight accommodations at The Galt House Hotel for Thunder Over Louisville on April 18, 2026, a tour of the Thunder Over Louisville Command Center, and $500 in spending money from the Kentucky Lottery.
Key Features of the ‘Festival Fanatic’ Promotion
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Purchase eligible Kentucky Lottery Pick 3 or Pick 4 tickets valued at $5 or more between January 8 and February 5, 2026. |
| Entry Method | Register for a Fan Club account on the Kentucky Lottery website or app and submit eligible tickets into your account. |
| Drawing Date | On or about February 9, 2026. |
| Prize Package | Tickets to various Derby events, private tours, official merchandise, accommodations, and $500 in spending money. |
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