Your Ultimate Guide to the Kentucky Derby 2025 Extravaganza!
It’s time to saddle up for the most exhilarating event of the year: Kentucky Derby 2025! Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, this year’s Derby promises excitement, fashion, and rich history.
Since moving to Kentucky from California years ago, I’ve done my share of time at Churchill Downs and learned a lot. I’m here to share!
From mastering Derby chic to enjoying the tasty drinks of the day, our guide has the scoop to ensure your Derby weekend is nothing short of a blast. So grab your big ole’ floppy hat and let’s trot through all you need to know to enjoy the Run for the Roses!
Kentucky Derby 2025 Schedule
Schedule- Kentucky from San Diego years ago, I mistakenly thought Derby was a one-day deal.
Wrong.
There are weeks of events, parties, and festivities leading up to the big day – or should I say big two minutes.
There are sporting events, fundraisers, and galas but things really kick into high gear April 20th with Thunder over Louisville. It’s an entertaining airshow that culminates with a phenomenal and massive fireworks show. Covering the Big Bay Boom Independence Day fireworks show in San Diego for years, I didn’t think anything could touch that West Coast Show. But it does. Don’t tell my San Diego friends but I think Thunder is even better than that fireworks show.
My favorite part the last few years, is the wall of fire that cascades over the bridge seemingly falling into the Ohio River. It’s eye-watering.
The Thunder Over Louisville airshow sets the stage for a week filled with fun. The following weekend it’s on to the Derby Festival Marathon and Half Marathon. What’s cool about that race is the runners weave through historical parts of Louisville and get to run through Churchill Downs.
While the race is happening, a hot air balloon race takes to the skies.
Then there’s a parade, bed races, and steamboat races along the Ohio River. An amusement park is set up along the Waterfront complete with a Chow Wagon and nightly music performances.
There is horse racing at Churchill Downs the week of the Derby leading up to Saturday. They’ve started “502sDay” on that Tuesday. It includes the local telephone area code and is a be a nod to the local community. Wednesday is Champions Day. Thursday is Thurby the most popular day for locals to attend.
Friday is Kentucky Oaks where the fillies race.
The climax of the week arrives Saturday with the Kentucky Derby 2025.
Deep breath. That’s a lot.
When is the Kentucky Derby?
When? Mark your calendars, for Derby Day, the epitome of equestrian excellence, which is scheduled this year, and every year, for the first Saturday of May.
History of the Kentucky Derby
Born in 1875, the Kentucky Derby was the vision of Col. Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., who wanted to establish a premier horse racing event like Europe’s classic races. He was inspired after a trip to Europe.
Clark was the grandson of the famous explorer William Clark – yes that Clark from Lewis and Clark. His uncles John and Henry Churchill helped him get the money to start a club and build a track. They used land the Churchills owned just south of Louisville. It was unofficially named Churchill Downs in 1883 although the official monikar was given in 1928.
In 1896 the tradition of adorning the winner with the Garland of Roses started and it continues today.
In 1907 Black jockey, James “Jimmy” Lee, set a record by winning all six races on his card. It’s something that hadn’t been done on American soil.
In the early 1900s, the race betting fees were restructured so they started turning a profit and the track grew in popularity. Under the leadership of Martin Winn, there was a push to invite celebrities – something that happens today. In 1952, the race was televised nationally with millions of people watching.
In 1931, the date for the Kentucky Derby was permanently set as the first Saturday in May. Churchill Downs was named an historic landmark in 1986.
Venue Details
The Kentucky Derby, the crown jewel of horse racing, finds its home at Churchill Downs, a legendary racetrack in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky.
What sets this place apart is not just its storied history, dating back to 1875, but also its iconic architecture, and enduring traditions. The twin spires, an unmistakable silhouette against the Kentucky sky, are well known to racing enthusiasts, and people who just watch for the fashion, worldwide.
Recent past Kentucky Derby winners
2024-Mystik Dan
2023 – Mage
2022 – Rich Strike
2021 – Medina Spirit
2020 – Authentic
2019 – Country House
2018 – Justify
2017 – Always Dreaming
2016 – Nyquist
2015 – American Pharoah
2014 – California Chrome
2013 – Orb
2012 – I’ll Have Another
2011 – Animal Kingdom
2010 – Super Saver
2009 – Mine That Bird
2008 – Big Brown
2007 – Street Sense
2006 – Barbaro
2005 – Giacomo
2004 – Smarty Jones
2003 – Funny Cide
2002 – War Emblem
2001 – Monarchos
2000 – Fusaichi Pegasus
Tips and Tricks for going to watching racing
To make the most of your day at the races, consider these tips and tricks.
First, dress up!
When else can you wear a gigantic flower-filled hat that’s bigger than your body?
Like, never.
At the Kentucky Derby, it’s normal. Embrace that because it’s not often you can do it and not get side-eyed from everyone around you.
Wear comfortable shoes or bring flip-flops
You’ll want to wear comfy flats or bring fip-flips in your bag to change into. There is usually a good amount of walking involved. If you want to wear cute heels for your pictures, that’s fine, but you’ll thank yourself if you have something comfy to slip into.
Know Churchill Downs bag policy.
For security reasons during the big week, the track only allows bags that are 12″x6″x12″ so don’t try to bring in a large one. So know the track’s bag policy.
Bring hand sanitizer and some TP
You’ll want to have some toilet paper or tissues in your purse. Also, a small bottle of hand sanitizer. The bathrooms get worked over – we’re talking upwards of 170,000 people at the event. The soap and toilet paper aren’t always replenished quickly so you’ll thank yourself if you have some reinforcements in your bag.
Bring Cash
Parking is expensive so bring some cash. People will rent out their front lawns to parkers for a premium. My husband and I never pay when we go. We always have good luck parking on the street a few blocks back. It’s a walk, but it’s free. We’ve also taken an Uber there and had good luck.
Speaking of cash. It’s king. You need it to place bets. I remember a few years back there were only like 2 ATMs in the infield. The line for those ATMs was outrageous. People were standing in them for what seemed like a lifetime. Save yourself the trouble and bring cash.
Speaking of the infield, it is the cheapest way to go and a lot of people love the excitement and energy there. The ground is dirt though and can get super muddy if it rains. Also, people bring their own chairs because there are no seats and there is a younger crowd in that area.
Check the weather
If rain is in the forecast, make sure you have a clear poncho. Clear so everyone can see your cute outfit – duh! Umbrellas are not allowed in Churchill Downs so a poncho is key. They’ll often sell them there if it’s raining but you’ll pay an arm and a leg for them so getting them ahead is smarter. Many of the seats are uncovered.
Wear sunscreen.
If you are in the uncovered area you’ll be exposed so wearing sunscreen will protect you from those harmful rays. Plus a searsucker and sunburn don’t mix.
Stay somewhere cool!
There are a number of historic hotels in downtown Louisville to stay during Derby like The Brown Hotel. There are also some super cool AirBnBs around town – some even horse racing and bourbon-themed.
If you don’t mind a bit of a drive, The Kentucky Castle in Versailles is a spectacular spot.
Also, check out Barn8 at Hermitage Farm in Goshen, Kentucky. They have a house you can rent out but it’s not huge so it may go quickly. It’s worth eating there though and checking out the bourbon tasting and thoroughbred tour.
Enjoy your time
You’ll want to arrive early to soak in the pre-race atmosphere and perhaps indulge in a mint julep, the event’s signature drink.
Additionally, get a racing program and familiarize yourself with it.
You’ll want to spend some time at the Paddock watching the horses walk around before their race. People have various superstitions about which horse to bet on based on what they do or don’t do during that walk in the Paddock.
Interesting Kentucky Derby Facts
- inaugural Race: The first Kentucky Derby was held on May 17, 1875, making it one of the longest-running sporting events in the United States.
- Roses: The Kentucky Derby is often referred to as the “Run for the Roses” because the winning horse is draped in a blanket of roses. This tradition started in 1896.
- Mint Julep: The official drink of the Kentucky Derby is the Mint Julep, which has been served at the event since the late 18th century. Over 120,000 Mint Juleps are served at Churchill Downs during the Derby weekend.
- Twin Spires: Churchill Downs, the racetrack where the Kentucky Derby is held, is famous for its twin spires. These iconic structures have become synonymous with the race and are a recognizable symbol of the event.
- Fastest Time: The fastest time ever recorded in the Kentucky Derby was set by Secretariat in 1973, with a blazing time of 1 minute and 59.4 seconds.
- Longest Shot: In 1913, Donerail won the Kentucky Derby as the longest shot ever to win the race, with odds of 91-1.
- Women Jockeys: Diane Crump became the first woman to ride in the Kentucky Derby in 1970. However, it wasn’t until 2013 that Rosie Napravnik became the first female jockey to place third in the race aboard Mylute.
- Weather: The Kentucky Derby has been run on a muddy track 15 times and on a sloppy track eight times due to inclement weather.
- Attendance: The highest attendance recorded at the Kentucky Derby was in 2015 when 170,513 spectators filled Churchill Downs to watch American Pharoah win the race.
- Iconic Trophy: The winner of the Kentucky Derby receives a trophy made of 14-karat gold, standing atop a jade base. This prestigious trophy is a symbol of victory in one of the most prestigious horse races in the world.
The Road to the Kentucky Derby
To earn a spot at the Derby starting gate, the 20 competing horses must get through crucial tests known as the road to the Derby.
These designated races, scattered across the country, offer qualifying points to the top finishers, earning them a coveted spot in the starting gate on Derby Day. From places like the popular Florida Derby and Santa Anita Derby to lesser-known ones like the Sunland Derby, each leg of the journey carries its weight in determining the field for the Run for the Roses.
The road to the Kentucky Derby also includes the Tampa Bay Derby at the Tampa Bay Downs.
Qualifying horses from Japan and Europe also have a shot at competing in the greatest two minutes in sports with the Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby and the European Road to the Kentucky Derby.
Other notable races include the Breeders Cup Juvenile for 2-year-old horses. The winner at that track usually becomes an early favorite for next year’s Kentucky Derby. The stakes are high with the purse for the Breeders Cup Juvenile is $3 million, compared to $400,000 for the Tampa Bay Derby, and $800,000 for the Southwest Stakes
You can follow horses like Catching Freedom which has done well in previous races, as the march continues to the 150th Kentucky Derby. Extra points for following horses with fun names like Holy Bull, Gun Runner, Honor Marie, Sierra Leone, Shady Lady, and Coach Prime.
Triple Crown Winner Explained
A Triple Crown winner in horse racing is a horse that achieves victory in three prestigious races for three-year-old Thoroughbreds: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. Winning all three races in a single year is considered one of the greatest accomplishments in horse racing, as it requires exceptional talent, endurance, and skill.
The Triple Crown races are held in the United States, and achieving it is rare, with only a few horses accomplishing it throughout history. Winning the Triple Crown is often seen as the pinnacle of success in Thoroughbred racing.
13 horses have won the Triple Crown:
Sir Barton (1919)
Gallant Fox (1930)
Omaha (1935)
War Admiral (1937)
Whirlaway (1941)
Count Fleet (1943)
Assault (1946),
Citation (1948),
Secretariat (1973),
Seattle Slew (1977),
Affirmed (1978),
American Pharoah (2015), and
Justify (2018)
As of 2024, American Pharoah and Justify are the only living Triple Crown winners
Fashion and Style
The Derby isn’t just a horse race—it’s a runway extravaganza where style takes center stage. If you’re planning to strut your stuff at the track, bring your A-game. Ladies, it’s all about channeling your inner Southern belle with flowy dresses, floral patterns, and, of course, the star – your statement hat or fascinator. The bigger, the bolder, the better!
And gents, don’t think you’re off the hook. Points earned for wearing your sharpest attire, with snazzy ties and polished shoes. Oh, and did I mention the seersucker suits? They’re practically a Derby tradition! So, whether you’re aiming for classic elegance or daring creativity, embrace the Derby fashion spirit
If you want more Derby fashion inspiration, I’ve got another section on that.
Kentucky Derby Food and Beverages
Let’s start with the quintessential drink of the Derby: the mint julep.
This refreshing concoction blends bourbon, simple syrup, fresh mint leaves, and crushed ice. They sell them non-stop during Derby. Vendors walk around with the drink in huge trays stripped to their bodies like they sell popcorn and hot dogs at the ballpark. I’m probably going to get shunned for this, but I don’t love the mint julep. It tastes too boozy for me. But you have to try one if it’s your first time at Churchill.
I prefer something called the Lily. It’s more popular to order at Oaks which is the day before Derby but I prefer it. It typically consists of vodka, Triple Sec, and cranberry juice, with a splash of lemon juice to add a citrusy twist.
For those craving a taste of Southern comfort, the Hot Brown is a must-try. This open-faced sandwich features slices of roasted turkey, crisp bacon, and juicy tomatoes, all smothered in a Mornay sauce and broiled.
And let’s not forget about the Derby Pie—a sinfully delicious dessert combining chocolate chips, pecans, and bourbon in a flaky pastry crust, guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.
You can find a wine steward or two around if bourbon isn’t your thing. Several wineries have booths and offer drinks by the glass.
As you walk to the track, you’ll see plenty of locals cooking on the street and selling their stuff. You’ll come across tasty BBQs, burgers, and more. I wouldn’t be afraid to hit up some local fairs along the way.
Host your Derby party at home
Some of the most fun Derby events I’ve attended haven’t even been at the track. A lot of people who live in Louisville prefer to watch the event on TV and have friends over instead of attending in person.
I’ve been to lots of Derby parties and as long as you’re serving some yummy charcuterie, bourbon and have a big TV with reliable service, you’re good. Be sure to include red roses in your decor if you’re hosting a race watch party. You can always raise the stakes by doing some in-house betting with friends. Online betting is now legal in Kentucky so you don’t have to march yourself into a casino.
FAQs
- When is the Kentucky Derby?
- The Kentucky Derby is typically held on the first Saturday in May each year.
- Where is the Kentucky Derby held?
- The Kentucky Derby takes place at Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky.
- How long is the Kentucky Derby?
- The Kentucky Derby is a 1 1/4 mile (10 furlongs) race.
- What time does the Kentucky Derby start?
- The post time for the Kentucky Derby varies but is usually in the late afternoon, around 6:30 PM Eastern Time.
- What is the dress code for the Kentucky Derby?
- The dress code for the Kentucky Derby varies depending on the area you are in. In the infield, attire is more casual, while in the grandstands, attendees often dress in formal or semi-formal attire, with many wearing elaborate hats or fascinators.
- What are some traditional foods and drinks at the Kentucky Derby?
- Traditional foods include the Hot Brown sandwich, burgoo (a hearty stew), and Derby Pie (a chocolate and pecan pie with bourbon). The official drink of the Derby is the Mint Julep, but other popular beverages include the Lily and Kentucky Bourbon.
- How can I buy tickets to the 150th Kentucky Derby?
- Tickets for the Kentucky Derby can be purchased through the official Churchill Downs website, authorized ticket vendors, or through ticket resale platforms.
- What are some other events surrounding the Kentucky Derby?
- The Kentucky Derby is part of a two-week-long festival in Louisville known as the Kentucky Derby Festival. This festival includes various events such as the Kentucky Oaks, Thunder Over Louisville (a fireworks display), and the Pegasus Parade. There are also plenty of races leading up to the Derby.
- Famous names to know in the horse racing business include David O’Farrell, Jerry Caroom, Ken Langone, Daniel Hamby, Steven Duncker, and Tony Holmes.
- Famous horse racing and breeding locations include Santa Anita, Elias Stable, Oaklawn Park, Hill Stable
- Are there any age restrictions for attending the Kentucky Derby?
- While there are no age restrictions for attending the Kentucky Derby, those under 18 must be with an adult. Betting on horse races is restricted to people 18 years of age or older.
- Is parking available at Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby?
- Yes, parking is available at the track during the Kentucky Derby, but it can be limited and often fills up quickly. It is recommended to purchase parking passes in advance, if possible, or consider other transportation options such as shuttles or rideshare services.
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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!
