While the Kentucky Derby began as just a horse race, it's evolved (that's the polite word) into a bit more of a celebration. Here's an overview of our coverage of the debauchery and parties. (For analysis of the gala's star power, check out our much-maligned Kentucky Derby celebrity rankings.)

From the track

• Hats, fascinators and feathers: Who wore them best
• Martha Stewart and her gardening hat
• Kentucky Derby 137: Fashionable couples (and duos)
• Kentucky Oaks 137: Pretty in (mostly) pink hats slideshow

Parties

• Exclusive: Sasha Grey talks Derby and photography
• Kentucky Derby nights: A cocktail-laden live-music memoir (part 3 of 3)
• Kentucky Derby nights: A cocktail-laden live-music memoir (part 2 of 3)
• Kentucky Derby nights: A cocktail-laden live-music memoir (part 1 of 3)
• My Derby Weekend of Debauchery: A tale of tassels, hot tottys and tattles

Wednesday, May 4

• Woodford Reserve Celebrity Jockey Bartending Event

Thursday, May 5

• Ferdinand's Ball (and the fascinators seen there)
• Oaks Eve Derby Poker Championship
• Taste of Derby

Friday, May 6

• Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala (Nick Lachey giving a big thumbs up, Guy Fieri, Joey Fatone and Wayne Brady and red carpet video)
• Derby Eve Gala
• Derby Hot 100 (preview)
• Hillbilly Outfield (preview)
• Julep Ball
• Maxim Party
• Mint Jubilee
• Playboy Celebrity Lounge

Saturday, May 7

• Derby Debauchery Weekend (preview)
• Grey Goose and Greenhouse NYC Presents The Derby After-Party with DJ IRIE (preview)
• The Hottest Derby Party (preview)
• Night of Silk Derby Party

Photo: Flickr/Bhenak