EXPERIENCE THE KENTUCKY DERBY

Plan your visit to witness The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®, the Kentucky Derby, the first jewel of the Thoroughbred Horse Racing Triple Crown.

FIRST TIME AT THE RACES?

Take our guided experience tour and learn more about planning your trip. Complete your check list to get ready to attend the Kentucky Derby!

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DERBY WEEK EVENTS

OPENING DAY

SATURDAY, APRIL 25 2026

Opening Day centers around family-friendly fun for the entire community. Celebrate the 152nd Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks post-position draws. New for this year, Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and Mini Marathon finishers will receive free admission if they wear their medals to Opening Day. Wear your medal to the box office and receive a free general admission ticket. Guests are encouraged to coordinate their attire with their family members, friends or significant others.
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SUNDAY FUNDAY

SUNDAY, APRIL 26 2026

Sunday racing returns to Kentucky Derby Week for the first time since 2010, which gives the community an extra day to celebrate the seasonal fun with brunch options around the track.

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DAWN AT THE DOWNS

MONDAY APRIL 27, 2026

Dawn at the Downs is a cherished tradition for both Louisvillians and visitors alike. Racing fans gather to watch Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks contenders during their morning workouts, all while selecting their favorites for the weekend's races.

Thursday April 23rd-Wednesday April 29th
Time: 6:40 a.m.

Dawn at the Downs Dining
April 27th | 6:40 a.m.

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502’SDAY

TUESDAY APRIL 28, 2026

502’sDay returns for its fourth year, shining the spotlight on what truly makes this city special – the community. General Admission is $5. Guests are encouraged to “Shop Local” and wear outfits from Louisville’s local shops and boutiques.

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WINSDAY

WEDNESDAY APRIL 29, 2026

In partnership with the Community Foundation of Louisville, local nonprofit organizations will be invited to fundraise and highlight the work they do to make Louisville a more vibrant place to live, work and play. By purchasing Winsday tickets through a registered nonprofit, guests will directly contribute to these vital agencies, with a portion of each ticket sale benefiting their incredible work.

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THURBY

THURSDAY APRIL 30, 2026

In partnership with the Frazier History Museum, Churchill Downs will transform into a vibrant display of the state's rich heritage. Delve into Kentucky's storied past and lively present with engaging photo ops and experiences that capture the essence of our rich culture. A must-attend for history buffs, music lovers, and racing enthusiasts alike, this event encapsulates Kentucky's spirited music, deep-rooted traditions, and vibrant atmosphere.

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KENTUCKY OAKS

FRIDAY MAY 1, 2026

The Longines Kentucky Oaks, now celebrating its 152nd running, is America’s premier race for 3-year-old fillies. Held each year the day before the Kentucky Derby, the Oaks offers a $1.5 million purse and awards the winner the iconic 'Lilies for the Fillies' garland. As one of the longest-running sporting events in U.S. history, the Oaks is steeped in tradition and meaning. Oaks Day is also a celebration of breast cancer awareness, with fans embracing the 'Pink Out' tradition by wearing shades of pink to honor this meaningful cause.

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KENTUCKY DERBY

SATURDAY MAY 2, 2026

No other entertainment event is as alluring, captivating, and thrilling as the Kentucky Derby. Call it what you will—the Run for the Roses®, the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®, or America's Race. This year marks the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby, presented by Woodford Reserve, the first leg of the Triple Crown. More than just a horse race, it’s a tradition steeped in history and held in the heart of America. It’s a way of life, representing the hopes and dreams of millions across the globe.

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PLAN YOUR VISIT

We want you to have the best possible experience at our event, so we've put together some helpful suggestions for your trip to the Kentucky Derby!

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WHAT TO EXPECT

The Kentucky Derby is unlike any other sporting event! With a crowd of more than 150,000 people, unparalleled history and tradition and its unique spectacle, the Kentucky Derby has been described by Forbes as one of the 'Greatest Bucket-list Sporting Events' in America. Whether you are a first-time guest or a veteran of many Derbys, we hope this brief guide will help you make the most of your visit.

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WHAT TO WEAR

One of the truly unique characteristics of the Kentucky Derby, and the Kentucky Oaks, is that they are well known to showcase the finest in spring fashions and the spectacle of hats.

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TRAVEL + PARKING

With some limited onsite parking available, find the best options to get to the venue during derby week and on Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby day.

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EVENT INFORMATION

As you plan your trip to Churchill Downs for Kentucky Derby weekend, be sure to review all of the event information including prohibited items policies, secruity information, and how to navigate facility using the Churchill Downs app.

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