What Time is the Kentucky Derby 2025? Entertainment Guaranteed
It’s the first Saturday in May and the thought crosses your mind “What time is the Kentucky Derby?”
You’re in luck. Because we’ve got you.
Since moving to Kentucky from California years ago, I’ve seen my share of Churchill Downs, and attending on race day is an experience like no other. If you can’t attend the most exciting two minutes in sports in person with your big ole hat, watching TV is the next best thing.
The best part, the entire race lasts two minutes.
That’s it.
2 minutes.
That’s my kind of sport.
Unlike watching golf which takes all day, this is over really fast. No offense to golf lovers as I’m married to one. I’m just saying.
So what time is the Kentucky Derby?
The post time for the 150th Kentucky Derby is 6.57 p.m. Eastern time on May 4th, 2025.
What does post time mean you ask?
That’s the designated time the race is supposed to start.
Understanding the Event
The Kentucky Derby is a symbol of tradition, combining the elegance of thoroughbred horse racing with loads of Southern charm. From the majestic horses thundering down the homestretch to the over-the-top hats and mint juleps, every part of the Derby reflects a reverence for tradition. Plus it’s just fun.
Since moving to Louisville, this is one of the more fun events my husband and I have participated in. With four young kids, it’s important to carve out time for just us… and 155,000 of our closest friends!
Brief History:
The Kentucky Derby, inaugurated in 1875, is known as America’s longest continuously held sporting event. Conceived by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., grandson of the famous explorer William Clark, the Derby was inspired by European horse races. Meriwether wanted to showcase the Bluegrass State’s rich equine heritage.
The Derby has evolved from a local horse race into an internationally renowned spectacle, attracting visitors from around the world to Churchill Downs in Louisville each year.
The Timing of the Kentucky Derby
Post time is 6:57 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturday, May 4th at Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville Kentucky.
Race Day Schedule for the 2025 Kentucky Derby:
Everyone tunes in for the 2-minute race known as the Kentucky Derby but there’s a full day of racing, heck there’s a full week of racing, leading up to those two minutes.
The gates at Churchill Downs open on the big day at 9 a.m. according to the Twin Spires website.
Here are more details on the race day schedule.
Viewing Options:
NBC has the rights to the race and you can watch the excitement on NBC Sports. You can also stream the race if you pay for Peacock. Also NBCsports.com.
If you have a Twin Spires account you can livestream it for free without betting.
Time Zone Considerations
Remember the race post time is scheduled for 6:57 p.m. Eastern Time.
I remember tuning in to watch the race on T.V. when we lived in San Diego and of course, it was early in the afternoon because of the time zone difference. So consider which time zone is yours when watching the big race.
What to wear to the 2025 Kentucky Derby
Attending the Kentucky Derby is not just about watching the thrilling races; it’s also an opportunity to showcase your fashion. Traditional Derby outfits often include vibrant, spring-inspired colors and lightweight fabrics like seersucker and linen to combat the Southern heat.
Ladies typically wear elegant sundresses paired with statement hats or fascinators with feathers, flowers, or bows. Men often wear seersucker suits or blazers paired with dress pants and colorful ties or bowties.
FAQs
What time does the Kentucky Derby start?
Post time for the 2025 Kentucky Derby is scheduled for 6:57 p.m. Eastern Time.
What’s the point of the Kentucky Derby?
The Kentucky Derby serves as a thrilling showcase of top horse racing talent along with the celebration of tradition, elegance, and the enduring spirit of competition.
How many horses are in the Kentucky Derby?
20 horses.
Each must travel the Road to the Kentucky Derby, which is a number of designated races at tracks across the country and around the globe.
Is the Kentucky Derby televised?
Yes, the Kentucky Derby is broadcast on NBC.
Are there pre-race events I should know about?
Yes, the Kentucky Derby is surrounded by a week-long festival known as the Kentucky Derby Festival, which includes various events leading up to the main race day. There is an airshow called Thunder over Louisville that concludes with a massive fireworks show which is the best I’ve ever seen.
There are also parades, a temporary amusement park on the Waterfront, a marathon and half marathon, and a week of racing leading up to the Derby including the Kentucky Oaks which is the day before the Derby.
What time do the gates open at Churchill Downs on Kentucky Derby Day?
Gates at Churchill Downs are scheduled to open at 9 a.m.
How long does the Kentucky Derby race last?
The actual race itself is relatively short, typically lasting around two minutes. However, the entire event day at Churchill Downs includes a full schedule of races, events, and celebrations.
Can I attend the 2025 Kentucky Derby in person?
Yes, you can purchase tickets to attend the Kentucky Derby in person at Churchill Downs. However, I recommend getting them early so you can plan.
Is there a specific dress code for attending the Kentucky Derby?
While there’s no strict dress code for watching the Kentucky Derby, attendees often embrace the event’s tradition by dressing in formal attire, including stylish hats and sundresses for women and seersucker suits or blazers for men.
Conclusion
If you’re lucky enough to attend this year’s Kentucky Derby in person, like me, hats off to ya and I hope to see you there! If not, tune in on TV or live stream for sure!
Hi I’m Erica! TV news anchor and mom to 4 littles. I’m obsessed with creating those “wow” moments in life through crafting at home, cool travel adventures and special celebrations with loved ones. Thanks for joining me on this adventure!
