Kentucky Oaks

Longines Kentucky Oaks

Friday, May 1, 2026 | Gates Open: 11:00 a.m. ET | First Race: 12:30 p.m. ET

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.

EVENT DAY DETAILS

KENTUCKY OAKS | FRIDAY, May 1

Gates Open: 11:00 a.m. ET | First Race: 12:30 p.m. ET

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Where to Watch

View broadcast schedules and get the latest updates on where watch or listen to the Kentucky Oaks. Watch and Follow the Kentucky Oaks

EVENT DAY HIGHLIGHTS

Survivors Parade

• The Survivors Parade is a moving tradition that celebrates breast and ovarian cancer survivors and encourages those still fighting their cancer battle as they march on Churchill Downs’ historic racetrack prior to the running of the Longines Kentucky Oaks.
• Between races 9 and 10

Style Under the Spires: Derby Week Fashion Contest

How to Enter:

• Scan the QR code displayed on the big board, enter your name and phone number, and send us a photo of your outfit.
• Our stylists behind the scenes are reviewing entries and will select the top 10 looks.
• The top 10 finalists will be contacted between Races 5 and 6.
• The fashion contest will take place between Races 7 and 8 at the Pink Carpet (Red Carpet)
• The winner will receive a prize!

FASHION

If you are planning to attend the Kentucky Oaks, we encourage you to artfully incorporate the color pink into your wardrobe — from hats to handkerchiefs, suits to sundresses, sunglasses to stilettos! The focus on pink both honors the Oaks official flower, the stargazer lily, and celebrates Churchill Downs’ advocacy and fundraising efforts for women’s health issues. Consider showcasing your elegant and creative ensembles in the Kentucky Oaks Fashion Contest, for an opportunity to win a exciting prize package.

PARKING INFORMATION

Onsite Parking

• Onsite parking is sold out.
• Lots open at 10:00 am on Oaks and Derby days for those with passes.
• Some tickets include parking (e.g., The Mansion, Spires Terrace, Woodford Reserve Paddock Club, Suites, Matt Winn’s, select dining rooms).
• Passes are vehicle-specific (car, limo, mini-bus, motor coach). Incorrect vehicle types will be turned away.
• Follow directions to your assigned lot for entry.
• No shuttling allowed within lots. No re-entry if you leave.

Kentucky Exposition Center (KEC)

• Central Avenue will be CLOSED April 30-May2. Visit kentuckyderbyparking.com for route info.
• Enter through Gates 1 or 2.
• Shuttles start at 7:30 am on Oaks and Derby days. ADA parking and shuttles are available, but no wheelchair assistance at Churchill Downs.
• Buses and cars may pre-purchase a Derby Drive drop-off pass (Warren Ave between Queen & Thornberry). No pick-up. Passes are collected at drop-off.
• Only frontside tickets allow KEC parking and shuttle access. Infield tickets are not accepted and cannot use the shuttle. No drop-off at the Infield Gate.

Rideshare & Pickup

• No onsite rideshare or taxi access. Use the Bronze Lot at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. No mobility assistance is available. Use a shuttle to KEC for pickup or drop-off.
• Paid parking at L&N Stadium starts on Thurby. Walk to Churchill Downs. Pay on-site (cash or card): $40 (car/truck), $150 (RV), $200 (bus). No advance sales.

ADA Parking

During Derby Week, onsite parking at Churchill Downs is available for pre-purchase as long as inventory is available. Parking within each reserved lot is first-come, first-served including ADA spaces.  If you do not have pre-purchased parking onsite, the Kentucky Exposition Center will have free parking with free accessible shuttles to the Black Lot outside of the Paddock Gate.

Additional ADA Seating and Accommodations Information >

Maps and Directions can be found here:

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