Note to editors: The Governor's Derby Breakfast on May 1 at the Capitol in Frankfort is free and open to the public. Complete details on the celebration, as well as photos from past celebrations, are available at http://kentucky.gov or http://governor.ky.gov/specialevents/derbyday.htm.

FRANKFORT, Ky.– Governor Ernie Fletcher and First Lady Glenna Fletcher announced today that the Governor's Derby Breakfast will return to the Capitol grounds on Derby Day, May 1. The event is free and open to the public.

"The Governor's Derby Breakfast symbolizes Kentucky's warm Southern hospitality during its annual day in the international spotlight,” Mrs. Fletcher stated. "Governor Fletcher and I are delighted to invite all Kentuckians to come to their Capitol to celebrate this wonderful event.”

The annual public celebration dates from 1971 and, for most of its years, it has been staged on the Capitol grounds. Construction plans for the Capitol area moved the event to downtown Frankfort two years ago, where it stayed last year.

This year's edition will resemble the Derby Day festivities that visitors have come to expect. A full menu of breakfast items prepared by the Department of Parks will be served up free under a big tent. Guests will help themselves to country ham, sausage, scrambled eggs, apples, cheese grits, biscuits, pastries, muffins, fruit juices, and coffee. Food will be served from 7 to 11 a.m.

While the delicious food is one highlight of the annual event, it is by no means the only reason to come to Frankfort, Mrs. Fletcher said.

"We have a full schedule of activities planned,” Mrs. Fletcher stated. "The Derby Breakfast has grown to be a festival with something to appeal to all ages.”

Two stages will feature continuous entertainment throughout the morning. In the Governor's Mansion, "Kentucky Visions,” a juried art show featuring 27 exhibitors will be staged from 7:30 a.m. to noon.

Twenty-eight Kentucky artisans will offer their wares for sale in crafts booths lining Capital Avenue. The Kids Korner booth will feature face painting, clowns, and other fun activities. Also around the Capitol will be information booths for Kentucky agriculture products, and Kentucky and Frankfort tourism. The official Derby Breakfast poster also will be offered for sale. Other booths will publicize the Drive Smart program, Fish and Wildlife, the Kentucky Horse Park, the Kentucky Historical Society, and Renaissance Kentucky.

For a unique, bird's-eye view of the Derby Breakfast, hot air balloon rides will be provided, weather permitting. Another popular feature is the antique car display.

Meanwhile, downtown Frankfort will be alive with activities. For example, the Kentucky History Center will operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with its exhibits, gift shop and library. The new Transportation Cabinet building nearby also will be open for tours from 8 a.m. to noon.

Derby Breakfast parking will be available at the CHR Complex, 275 E. Main St. A free bus shuttle service will operate between CHR, the Kentucky History Center, and the Capitol. Hours are 6:30 a.m. to noon. Handicap parking will be available in the parking lot just west of the Capitol. More information on the celebration is available at  http://governor.ky.gov/specialevents/derbyday.htm.