153rd Kentucky Derby

Experience The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®

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Kentucky Derby & Kentucky Oaks Horses

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2026 Style Guide

Your inspiration for planning what to wear to the 2026 Kentucky Derby

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Derby Tickets & Hospitality

153rd Kentucky Derby Ticket Information

 

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Sit down to a view of the world’s most legendary racetrack and enjoy the sights and sounds of outdoor racing. All reserved seating will be All-Inclusive (with food, non-alcohol and alcoholic beverages) for the Kentucky Derby & Kentucky Oaks and include access to offsite parking at the Kentucky Fair and Expo Center and race day program.

 

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View elegant and private spaces that provide the ultimate experience to enjoy the most exciting two minutes in sports.

 

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Reserve a table in one of our premium dining rooms. All dining locations will be All-Inclusive (with food, non-alcohol and alcoholic beverages) for the Kentucky Derby & Kentucky Oaks and include access to offsite parking at the Kentucky Fair and Expo Center and race day program.

 

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Elevate your Kentucky Derby experience in luxurious comfort with a private kitchen, lounge seating and balcony providing panoramic views of live racing action at Churchill Downs.

 

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Feel the thrill and vibrancy of the Kentucky Derby in the lively Infield, showcasing one of the world's largest 4K video boards, access to ample concessions and mutuels, and easy entry at the Infield Gate.

 

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Derby Experiences, The Official Experience Package Provider to Churchill Downs® for the Kentucky Oaks® and the Kentucky Derby®, offers a variety of Ticket Packages inclusive of hospitality spaces, VIP Fast Access Pass, hotel accommodations, parties, tours and more!

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Always A Runner wins the 152nd Kentucky Oaks (Photo by Doug Beigie)

152nd Kentucky Oaks Winner: Always A Runner

Congratulations Always a Runner on winning the 152nd Kentucky Oaks!

 152nd Kentucky Derby Winner: Golden Tempo

Congratulations Golden Tempo on winning the 152nd Kentucky Derby!

Golden Tempo wins the 152nd Kentucky Derby (Photo by Doug Beigie)

PLAN YOUR DERBY

Whether you are in the stands, at a party or at home, plan accordingly to enjoy the Run for the Roses on the first Saturday in May.

DERBY WEEK EVENTS

Plan your visit to witness The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®, the Kentucky Derby, by attending Derby Week which has individual themed racing days that highlight the best in style, racing, traditions and Kentucky.

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SPECIAL EVENTS

Make it an unforgettable experience by joining in the festivities that surround the lead up to the Kentucky Derby.

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VISIT US

Don't miss a single detail. Find everything you need to perfect your Derby experience.

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PARTY PLANNING

Derby Day is best celebrated with friends and family. We're here to help you plan as no Derby party is complete without incorporating the living traditions of red roses, Mint Juleps, southern inspired dishes and beautiful hats.

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Churchill Downs App

The new and improved Churchill Downs app has everything you need to enjoy your day at the races. Both Android and iOS apps are now available!

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Derby News June 29, 2026

Forever Young eyes Jockey Club Gold Cup, Breeders’ Cup Classic title defense

Forever Young charts his course to the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1), Japanese three-year-old Finger hopes to earn his way in via the Aug. 22 Pacific Classic (G1), plus updates on Wonder Dean and T O Password.

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Oaks News May 30, 2026

Another milestone for women in racing: Imamura wins Japanese Oaks

After Cherie DeVaux made history as the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby (G1) winner in Golden Tempo, Seina Imamura scored a breakthrough as the first female jockey to win a classic race in Japan.

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Expert picks June 27, 2026

Sovereignty Returns! LIVE 2026 Stephen Foster Post Times, Odds & Expert Picks

Get the official 2026 Stephen Foster Stakes entries, morning line odds, post times, and expert betting picks for the $2 million showdown at Churchill Downs.

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Expert picks July 1, 2026

Expert Pick of the Week: 2026 Belmont Derby

An excellent field of 10 three-year-old horses will travel nine panels on the Saratoga lawn in Saturday’s lucrative $750,000 Belmont Derby (G1).

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Kentucky Derby Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Planning your Kentucky Derby experience or simply looking to learn more about the Run for the Roses? Find answers to the most common questions about Derby Day, Churchill Downs, tickets, traditions, race day, and more.

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The Kentucky Derby is the first leg of the Triple Crown and one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. It features 3-year-old Thoroughbreds competing in a 1¼-mile race at Churchill Downs.

 

The Kentucky Derby is held annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. This year, the Kentucky Derby takes place on Saturday May 1 2027.

 

The Kentucky Derby is held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.

 

The exact race time typically takes place in the early evening. Post time for the 153rd Kentucky Derby is scheduled for approximately 6:57 PM ET on Saturday, May 1, 2027. Coverage and festivities begin much earlier in the day. For guests attending the Kentucky Derby, gates will open at 9 AM.

 

The race itself lasts around two minutes, earning its nickname 'The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®.' The actual distance of the Kentucky Derby is 1 and 1/4th mile long.

 

Tickets can be purchased online through the Kentucky Derby website forms  , Ticketmaster, Derby Experiences Ticket Packages, or by contacting a Kentucky Derby Sales Representative at 502-636-4447 or sales@kyderby.com.

All frontside tickets include access to parking at the Kentucky Exposition Center by showing their tickets at the Parking Lot gate. Shuttles will be running to Churchill Downs and back to the Exposition through the entirety of each Derby Week event day, including Kentucky Derby & Oaks days.

 

Derby fashion is all about style and tradition. For women, colorful dresses and bold hats are the norm. For men, seersucker suits, bow ties, and fedoras are popular. Comfort meets Southern charm! View the latest styles for this year's Kentucky Derby!

 

Yes, there are restrictions on items you can bring, including bag size limitations and prohibited items. Check out the full list for the most up-to-date information.

The Official Kentucky Derby Collection

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The Mint Julep

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