The parade, first held in 1956, is the Derby Festival's oldest and founding event. It began on a budget of $640 and now provides an impact in excess of $14 million to the local economy. In 2013, the 58th annual Republic Bank Pegasus Parade - marched down Broadway under beautiful weather conditions.

It is not surprising that the parade is consistently voted as one of Louisville's favorite events. The parade is a true community asset and more than 90% of the route is free public viewing thanks to the sponsorship of Republic Bank & Trust Company. The parade was lead by their "Peggy Bank" balloon.

Mark your calendars for 2014. The 59th parade promises to be a spectacle of colorful floats, marching bands, giant inflatables, equestrians and celebrities parading down Broadway in downtown Louisville on Thursday, May 1st.