LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Thunder Over Louisville has officially been canceled for 2020, along with the Pegasus Parade and miniMarathon.
Previously postponed until August, the Kentucky Derby Festival determined it wouldn't be responsible to hold their largest events amid the coronavirus pandemic.
“As an organization that always puts public health and safety first, we know it would not be responsible for the Kentucky Derby Festival to put on events that attract crowds with not just hundreds, but hundreds of thousands of people,” said Matt Gibson, Kentucky Derby Festival President and CEO. “This has been a difficult and emotional decision for our staff and board, but we believe it is the best one based on these unprecedented circumstances.”
In a release, festival officials said they're still looking to hold smaller events like the Tour de Lou and the Balloon Fest. They are also exploring options to host some events virtually.
The festival will provide information for those who have already purchased tickets or registered for events, and the 2020 Pegasus Pin will be honored during the 2021 festival.
“We are so grateful for the continued support of our many sponsors, partners, and our fans during this uncertain time,” said Gibson. “The Kentucky Derby Festival’s mission has always been to bring the community together in celebration. We hope to still find ways we can do that even if we’re apart.”
►Make it easy to keep up-to-date with more stories like this. Download the WHAS11 News app now. For Apple or Android users.
Have a news tip? Email assign@whas11.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter feed.