EVENT INFORMATION

EVENT INFORMATION

Security Information

Read This Before You Head to the Track!

As you plan your trip to Churchill Downs for Kentucky Derby weekend, be sure to review the list of items that are permitted and those that cannot be brought into the racing facility.

All patrons are subject to metal detector scans before entry to the track on all of Derby Week (Opening Night- Derby Day). Oaks and Derby patrons are advised to arrive early to accommodate search procedures at all admission gates.

Guests will be required to return any prohibited items to their vehicles or discard them before entering the facility. Churchill Downs will not be responsible for any items left near the entrances and such items may be thrown away. There is no re-entry after exiting the facility; patrons are not permitted to leave Churchill Downs and return on the same ticket.

Patrons are reminded: 'If you see something, say something.' If you see something unusual please immediately call 502-636-4526 to report it.

This list is subject to change & any item deemed inappropriate or unsafe may be denied entry at any time. 

Kentucky Derby Week Bag Policy

Churchill Downs Racetrack will enforce a restricted bag policy from Saturday, April 25th, 2026 through Derby Day (Saturday, May 2nd, 2026). Each guest is permitted one bag no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″.

Prohibited Items List Effective Derby Week (Opening Day-Derby Day)

• Alcoholic beverages
• Bags larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″
• Balloons and inflatables
• Banners and/or signs, unless pre-approved
• Cameras with detachable lenses, or equipped with a lens that is 6” or larger
• Cans (any size or type)
• Collapsible chairs (Please see below exceptions for Infield Gate Only)
• Collapsible chairs with canopies
• Confetti
• Coolers
• Drones and remote-controlled aircraft
• Firearms
• Food (Opening Night-Thurby)
• Glass Bottles or containers
• Grills
• Hoverboards, skateboards and scooters
• Illegal Substances
• Laser lights/pointers
• Luggage and duffle bags
• Noise makers, air horns and fireworks
• Personal music players without headphones
• Pets, except for trained service animals
• Poles or sticks of any size, including selfie sticks
• Portable speakers/sound systems
• Projectile items (i.e. Frisbees, balls)
• Seat cushions that are larger than 15″ X 15″ that contain metal arms and/or backs, zippers, pockets or flaps
• Tents and canopies
• Thermoses
• Tripods
• Umbrellas of any size
• Wagons (unless designed by manufacturer as a stroller – must be accompanied by a child)
• Weapons of any kind (i.e. chains, knives, pepper spray, etc.)
• Any items deemed dangerous and/or inappropriate

Notable Exceptions that are Allowed in the FRONTSIDE GATES: Derby Week

• Baby bag and diaper bags, if accompanied by a child (subject to search)
• Strollers and stroller wagons, if accompanied by a child

Notable Exceptions that are Allowed in the FRONTSIDE GATES: Kentucky Oaks & Derby

• Guests may bring boxed lunches or food items in clear plastic bags or containers that do not exceed the maximum size (12″ X 6″ X 12″). Items must fit in the guest's bag or one-gallon clear Ziploc-style storage bag (no trash bags). Guests are restricted to one bag only–additional bags for food will not be permitted.

Notable Exceptions that are Allowed in the INFIELD GATE

• Boxed lunches or food items in clear plastic bags or containers that do not exceed the maximum size (12″ X 6″ X 12″). Boxed lunches or food items must fit in the guest's bag or one-gallon clear Ziploc-style storage bag (no trash bags). Guests are restricted to one bag only – additional bags for food will not be permitted.
• Bottled water that is in a sealed, clear and unopened plastic bottle- limit of two 24 oz. bottles per person
• Collapsible camping chairs without canopies (must be removed from bag during search)
• Tarpaulins (“Tarps”) and picnic blankets that are smaller than 10’ x 10’. Once inside the gate, tarps may not be secured to the infield fence or any other permanent structure.

This list is subject to change and any item deemed inappropriate or unsafe may not be carried into the facility at any time.

Patrons could be required to turn on electronic items