EXPERIENCE THE KENTUCKY DERBY

Plan your visit to witness The Greatest 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 NIGHT

SATURDAY, APRIL 26 2025

Kick-off Derby Week with the most stylish night in horse racing. Preview 2025 Kentucky Derby trends with a fashion show and more!

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DAWN AT THE DOWNS

SUNDAY APRIL 27–MONDAY APRIL 28, 2025

Everyone’s favorite behind-the-scenes tradition. Spend your morning at Churchill Downs to watch your favorite Derby and Oaks contenders warm up on the track while listening to expert commentary. This beloved, VIP event is the perfect way to get an up-close look at the horses, all at no cost.

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502’S DAY

TUESDAY APRIL 29, 2025

Kentucky Derby Week’s newest experience: 502’sDay celebrates the community, Louisville’s Kentucky Derby tradition makers, inspiration providers and die-hard Derby fans. Grab your $5 General Admission ticket and come be part of the 502’s biggest day!

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CHAMPIONS DAY

WEDNESDAY APRIL 30, 2025

Champions Day shines a spotlight on the rich history of the Kentucky Derby and the thrilling world of thoroughbred racing.

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THURBY

THURSDAY MAY 1, 2025

An unforgettable showcase of all things Kentucky, Thurby continues to celebrate Kentucky’s culture: bourbon, Bluegrass and racing! Featuring Bluegrass music near the Paddock, the finest bourbon, and top-level horse racing; Thurby is a bucket list event for all horse racing fans!

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KENTUCKY OAKS

FRIDAY MAY 2, 2025

The Longines Kentucky Oaks is America’s premier and most lucrative race for 3-year old fillies – female horses -- held each year on the day before the Kentucky Derby.

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KENTUCKY DERBY

SATURDAY MAY 3, 2025

The 151st Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve is the world’s Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®.

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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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