Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 6 days ago

---

The rose garland, synonymous with the Kentucky Derby, is the source of the nickname 'Run for the Roses' and has a history almost as long as the Derby itself. Each year, a garland of more than 400 red roses is sewn into a green satin backing with the seal of the Commonwealth on one end and the Twin Spires and number of the race's current renewal on the other. Each garland is also adorned with a 'crown' of roses, green fern and ribbon. The 'crown,' a single rose pointing upward in the center of the garland, symbolizes the struggle and heart necessary to reach the Derby Winner's Circle. The Kroger Company has been crafting the garland for the Kentucky Derby since 1987.

--
Follow us on social media at
Facebook: facebook.com/kentuckyderby
Twitter: twitter.com/kentuckyderby
Instagram: instagram.com/kentuckyderby
TikTok: tiktok.com/kentuckyderby