LOUISVILLE, Ky. — People all over the world are making their way to Kentucky for Derby 150.

While the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport sees thousands of people coming in and out of the commonwealth daily, public relations director Natalie Chaudoin said Derby season is the busiest time of the year. 

“We are very proud to service that first welcome (for) our visitors here for the Derby experience when they land in Louisville," Chaudoin said. "We really try to roll out the the red carpet, if you will. We'll have 120 local musicians performing live in the terminal over the three days.” 

Jordan Formenti arrived in Louisville from Phoenix for Derby 150. She said attending the event has been on her bucket list since she was little. 

“I just told all my family, I was coming in as a spur-of-the-moment trip," Formenti said. "I literally booked my flights 10 days ago. We had some friends who were coming out here, and we just jumped on the bandwagon."

Other new visitors said they were excited to just get a taste of the Derby excitement.

Barb Wicks is from Connecticut and said she loves seeing the horses as they remind her of when she used to horseback ride.              

“With all the flowers and the horses and the colors and the music, everything is wonderful and very welcoming," Wicks said. "I'm so excited to be a part of this special time in Kentucky.” 

Marshall and Pam Ward, who are from Kentucky, said it's easy to get in the Derby spirit right after hopping off the plane.

“The part of that I really enjoyed is listening to the nice Louisville jazz musicians as we walk down the hallway," Marshall Ward said. "(It) got me ready to think about the Derby week and all the good festivities that Kentuckians and everybody from around the world get to enjoy this weekend. The roses on horses are (a) nice touch, too.” 

Derby 150 is May 4, 2024.