Republic Bank Pegasus Parade



ParadeThe Republic Bank Pegasus Parade, first held in 1956, is the Kentucky Derby Festival's oldest and founding event.  It began on a budget of $640 and now provides an impact in excess of $22 million to the local economy. In 2012, the 57th parade marches down Broadway on Thursday, May 3, and promises to be a spectacle of colorful floats, marching bands, giant inflatables, equestrians and celebrities parading down Broadway in downtown Louisville.

Entertainer Cyndi Lauper will serve as Grand Marshal of this year’s Pegasus Parade and will perform her hit song “True Colors” before the event begins. She will be joined in the parade by actor-husband David Thornton. University of Kentucky men’s basketball coach John Calipari and the UK coaching staff will serve as Honorary Grand Marshals, accompanying the 2012 NCAA championship basketball trophy down the parade route. Also appearing in the parade are: Josh Dallas, a New Albany, Ind., native who is starring on NBC’s “Once Upon a Time” TV show; “Once Upon a Time” co-star Ginnifer Goodwin; Vicki Gunvalson of “The Real Housewives of Orange County”; poker pros Robert Williamson III and Josh Arieh; “2 Broke Girls” star Jonathan Kite; and Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler.

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 generates an economic impact annually of $22 million. More than 90% of the route is free public viewing thanks to the sponsorship of Republic Bank. The parade will be led by their newly-renamed "Peggy Bank" balloon.


Past Parade Themes
Past Parade Grand Marshals
Parade History
Parade Entry Information (Registration Closed for 2012)
Street Closures