DERBY FESTIVAL NAMES NEW CONCESSIONAIRE
Louisville-based company awarded multi-year agreement
February 16, 2026. Louisville, KY. – A Louisville-based company will bring a new flavor to Kentucky Derby Festival events. Khalil’s Catering has been selected as the Festival’s Official Concessionaire. Khalil’s Catering will provide food and beverage service for two of the Festival’s signature events: Thunder Over Louisville and Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront.
“Khalil has built a strong reputation for hospitality and service, and we are excited to welcome Khalil’s Catering as the Festival’s Official Concessionaire,” said Matt Gibson, President and CEO of the Kentucky Derby Festival. “We look forward to working with his team to serve guests across Kentucky Derby Festival events this spring.”
Khalil’s Catering is a Louisville, Kentucky-based catering company founded by Khalil Batshon, a respected entrepreneur with more than 15 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. After previously operating a local bar and restaurant, Batshon transitioned to focus exclusively on catering, bringing professional execution and a strong guest experience mindset to every event. Batshon has supported and served at many events throughout the region.
“Stepping into the main concessionaire role for the Kentucky Derby Festival is a major milestone, and I’m grateful for the opportunity,” said Batshon. “The Kentucky Derby Festival is known for its iconic events and traditions, and I am proud, honored, and ready to serve Kentucky on one of the biggest stages we have.”
Khalil’s Catering plans to work closely with local culinary talent, food trucks, and vendors to expand menu variety at Kentucky Derby Festival events. The approach will support locally owned businesses and introduce diversified menu options that reflect regional flavors and the Louisville community.
Said Batshon, “I love Louisville and I love helping people. This partnership allows us to bring great food, strong service, and Kentucky pride to every Festival guest experience.”
Vendors, food trucks, and restaurants, along with specialty food and beverage concepts interested in working with Khalil’s Catering can get more information online at khalilsevents.com or email him directly at Khalil@khalilsevents.com.
About Khalil’s Catering
Khalil’s Catering is a Louisville, Kentucky-based catering company founded by Khalil Batshon with more than 15 years of food and beverage experience. Khalil’s Catering supports events of all sizes from private celebrations and corporate gatherings to large-scale community events across the region. khalilsevents.com
About Kentucky Derby Festival
2026 marks the 71st year for the Kentucky Derby Festival, a month-long celebration packed with 70+ events leading up to the first Saturday in May. As an independent community organization, it’s supported by 4,000 volunteers, more than 400 businesses and civic groups, Pegasus Pin sponsorships and event participation. It entertains more than 1.5 million people every spring and has a local economic impact of more than $200 million. This involvement has made the Festival the largest single-attended event in Kentucky and one of the leading community celebrations in the world.
