Your Guide to 2025 Derby Week Events

Apr 28, 2025 Kentucky Derby

Your Official Guide to Derby Week 2025 Events and How to Join the Excitement

The energy is building, the hats are being prepared, and the horses are ready to shine. As we count down to the 151st Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks, Churchill Downs and the city of Louisville are buzzing with unforgettable events, celebrations, and racing action.

Whether you’re a seasoned Derby-goer or a first-time visitor, here's your day-by-day guide to this week’s can’t-miss events—and how you can be part of the excitement leading up to the most thrilling two minutes in sports.

📅 Tuesday, April 29 – 502’sDay Celebration

Gates Open: 11:30 a.m. ET
First Race: 12:45 p.m. ET
Event Highlights: Louisville locals and visitors alike celebrate the city's spirit with $5 general admission tickets. It’s a day filled with racing, local flavors, and community pride.

👉 Explore 502’sDay Details

📅 Wednesday, April 30 – Derby Week's WinsDay

Gates Open: 11:30 a.m. ET
First Race: 12:45 p.m. ET
Event Highlights: Celebrate the impactful work of local nonprofit organizations during a day of racing, giving back, and making memories.

👉 WinsDay Information

📅 Thursday, May 1 – Thurby

Gates Open: 10:30 a.m. ET
First Race: 12:45 p.m. ET
Event Highlights: 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.

👉 Learn More About Thurby

📅 Friday, May 2 – Kentucky Oaks Day

Gates Open: 9:00 a.m. ET
First Race: 11:00 a.m. ET
Kentucky Oaks Race: Approximately 5:51 p.m. ET
Event Highlights: A day dedicated to the finest 3-year-old fillies. Don’t forget to wear pink in support of breast and ovarian cancer awareness! Expect a full card of competitive racing and heartfelt traditions.

👉 Kentucky Oaks Day Details

📅 Saturday, May 3 – 151st Kentucky Derby Day

Gates Open: 9:00 a.m. ET
First Race: 11:00 a.m. ET
Kentucky Derby Post Time: 6:57 p.m. ET
Event Highlights: The main event! Celebrate the 151st Run for the Roses with a day packed with thrilling races, unforgettable fashion, and the electrifying atmosphere only Churchill Downs can deliver.

👉 All You Need for Derby Day

🎟️ How You Can Participate

Buy Tickets: A limited number of tickets are still available for select days.

👉 Purchase Official Derby Week Tickets

Watch Live: Can’t make it to Louisville? Tune in to NBC, USA Network, FanDuel TV, and stream on Peacock.

Join Official Events: From parties to events around the city, there are endless ways to immerse yourself in the tradition and thrill.

👉 Explore All Official Derby Week Events

Get Ready for the Week of a Lifetime!

Derby Week 2025 is packed with excitement, elegance, and tradition. From early morning workouts to the roar of the crowd on Derby Day, every moment is a memory in the making.

We’ll see you at the track, under the Twin Spires!