In 1947, my family and a group of friends had a dream of going to the Kentucky Derby. In the ensuing years, my family has shared that dream with thousands of Kentucky Derby racing fans. Many came to the Derby as casual fans, others as horse owners, but all who have participated in the Kentucky Derby Junket have been changed by the experience. You don't just "see" the Derby, you become a part of it, catching the euphoria that Kentuckians dub "Derby Fever".

The first Saturday in May 2009 marks the 135th Running of the Kentucky Derby. If you are looking forward to attending the Derby for the first time, or repeating a memorable Derby experience, you can personally share in its great traditions and attend the Kentucky Derby as it should be done. Catch "Derby Fever" as a member of our Annual Kentucky Derby Junket - choice first class box seats, first class hotel accommodations, and private buses to and from all junket events. Nothing has been left to chance in making our personalized trips to the Kentucky Derby the ultimate dream come true.

We have 5 night (Tuesday to Sunday) and 3 night (Thursday to Sunday) tour packages available. (Click here for pricing and details.)

Please note - Our 2009 itinerary will be unveiled in November/December 2008. Complete pricing information will be on the web site and reservations will be accepted after January 1, 2009.

Please click here to email us if you would like to receive a brochure.

You are viewing the 2008 itinerary and costs pages. You may wish to view the 2008 day by day photo gallery with photos of the events described in the itinerary to get an idea of the once-in-a-lifetime excitement offered by Jane Dempsey's Kentucky Derby Junket.

(Below is the 2008 schedule with 2009 dates.)

Tuesday, April 28th
Upon arrival in Louisville, you will transfer to your hotel, the Executive West. A special "Welcome to Louisville" Cocktail Party will launch our junket and give us all a chance to become better acquainted.

Wednesday, April 29th
Our day starts with a VIP backside tour of the Churchill Downs stable area. During breakfast at Wagner’s Trackside Kitchen, we will watch the morning workouts at Churchill Downs. Then on to the "Gallop to Glory" ceremony at the Galt House for past Kentucky Derby winning jockeys and lunch. Our afternoon is complete with a visit to the Kentucky Derby Museum.

Thursday, April 30th
Today we travel by private buses for a day in the heart of Blue Grass Country. Visits to Claiborne Farm, Three Chimney Farm, Clay Bank Farm, Downtown Lexington, Lexington Thoroughbred Park, Kentucky Horse Park, and Keeneland Race Course are included in our tour. Lunch will be at Spindletop Hall, a forty-room mansion of classic architecture.

Friday, May 1st
Billy Reed, Eclipse award winning turf writer, will fill us in on the latest Derby details during our Kentucky Oaks champagne buffet breakfast. After breakfast, we will travel by "escorted" private buses to Churchill Downs, highlighted by the Kentucky Oaks. Churchill Downs will open betting windows to place bets on the Derby. Our buses remain at the Race Track for 30 minutes after the last race becomes official.

Saturday, May 2nd
2009 Kentucky Derby Day! We will travel to Churchill Downs by "escorted" private buses. To add to the excitement of the day, we have special access to the Kentucky Derby Museum.  We will return to the Hotel by "escorted" private buses 30 minutes after the last race becomes official. With all the excitement of the 135th Running of the Kentucky Derby, don't forget to collect your winnings!

Sunday, May 3rd
It's been an exciting few days, as you transfer back to the airport. You'll be returning home with your winnings and enough memories of new friends and fun times to last until we see you again next year!