Louisville, Ky. (WHAS11) - It's considered the official start to the Kentucky Derby Festival, and you don't want to start the most wonderful time of a Kentuckian's year on the wrong foot. If you're planning to make the trip downtown to view the show, we've compiled a list of tips to make sure you get the most out of te experience.
1) Get there early for a good spot. Waterfront Park opens at 9 a.m., but people start lining up for a good spot as early as 6 a.m.
2) Park as far away from Thunder as you can comfortably walk, at least four blocks. This will help you make an easier exit later.
3) Speaking of exits, make sure your car has plenty of gas for the exit traffic delays.
4) Bring your patience. This event brings a lot of people to a relatively small space. The point is to have fun, though, so try to have some!
5) Your wardrobe matters! Dress in layers: the temperature can vary a great deal throughout the day. Wear comfortable shoes: there's a lot of walking at Thunder. Pack for all weather: sunscreen, sunglasses, and a poncho are all great accessories!
*While we're discussing accessories, remember to wear your Pegasus Pin. You’ll need it for the Thunder Chow Wagon, Meijer Family Fun Zone on the West Belvedere and North Great Lawn viewing area.*
6) Bring a roll of toilet paper and hand sanitizer--Thunder Pots can run out!
7) Know your children’s limits for the day. Seven hours can be a long day for toddlers, so consider picking air show or fireworks. Earplugs are highly recommended for little ones.
8) Don’t count on cell phones working 100% that day. All those people on their phones in one location will hinder cell service.
9) Because cell service will be hit-and-miss, identify a location to regroup in case you lose anyone in your group. Be sure to take day-of photos to show officers in case someone gets lost.
10) Bring food! You can bring food and drink to the venue (except in the Thunder Chow Wagon), so stock up! Alcoholic drinks, however, are not allowed, and all parcels subject to search.
11) You may not be able to bring alcohol, but there will be beer-vending areas at Thunder: Thunder Chow Wagon at Waterfront Park, Meijer Family Fun Zone on the West Belvedere, North Great Lawn and the Big Four Lawn. Designate a driver if you plan on drinking!
12) Do bring a radio so you can listen to the air show, and know what items you should not bring.
READ MORE: Know what you can and can't bring to Thunder
