Experience the Thrill of the 2026 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs

Date: 5/2/2026
Location: Churchill Downs - Louisville, KY

Be There for the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports

The 2026 Kentucky Derby in Louisville will bring together the fastest horses and top contenders in one of the sport’s most iconic venues. From the historic charm of Churchill Downs to the vibrant Derby atmosphere, Elite Events & Tickets will craft a custom package with premium seating, top hotels, and exclusive experiences — you enjoy the excitement, we’ll handle the rest.

Our 2026 Kentucky Derby Services

Tickets

From the first trumpet call to the final stretch, we’ve got your Derby experience covered.

Pre-Trip Planning

Enjoy peace of mind knowing your entire Kentucky Derby experience is fully planned.

1st Class Accommodations

Relax in first-class comfort at top hotels in Louisville — just minutes from Churchill Downs.

Private Transportation

We’ll handle all your local travel needs with first-class private transfers.

2026 Kentucky Derby Festivities

Louisville is set to host the 2026 Kentucky Derby on May 2 at Churchill Downs, the legendary home of the Run for the Roses. This iconic event has drawn crowds since 1875, making it one of the longest-running and most celebrated traditions in sports.

Opening Night

Kick off Derby Week in style at Kentucky Derby Opening Night on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Churchill Downs. This festive evening marks the start of the 152nd Run for the Roses with live Thoroughbred racing, fashion-forward flair, and vibrant entertainment. Guests can enjoy themed parties, music, and the first glimpse of Derby Week excitement. Whether you're sipping a mint julep or admiring the iconic Twin Spires, it's the perfect way to launch an unforgettable week of tradition and celebration.

Churchill Downs Tours

Step into the legacy of Churchill Downs with exclusive guided tours available throughout Derby Week 2026. Offered by the Kentucky Derby Museum, these tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at the home of the Kentucky Derby. Explore areas like the barn and infield, jockeys' quarters, and the renowned Millionaires Row. Delve into the rich history of Thoroughbred racing and experience the ambiance that makes this venue iconic. Tours are available on select days during Derby Week.

Dawn at the Downs

Start your Derby Day early with Dawn at the Downs on April 26-27, 2026 (Sunday and Monday), at Churchill Downs. From 7:00 to 10:00 a.m., watch Kentucky Derby and Oaks contenders during their morning workouts, identified by their distinctive saddle towels --- yellow for Derby and pink for Oaks. Enjoy expert commentary providing insights into each horse's performance and training routines. Admission is free, with first-come, first-served parking available.

502's Day

Celebrate Louisville's Spirit at 502'sDay on Tuesday April 28, 2026, at Churchill Downs. This special day honors the heart of the 502 area code with live racing, local flair, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Gates open late morning with the first race being in the early afternoon, marking the kickoff of Derby Week's live racing schedule. Join fellow fans in celebrating Louisville's rich traditions and the excitement leading up to the Kentucky Derby.

Winsday

Celebrate Midweek Magic at Winsday on Wednesday April 29, 2026, at Churchill Downs. As Derby Week unfolds, Winsday offers a midweek opportunity to immerse yourself in the excitement of live racing and the vibrant atmosphere leading up to the Kentucky Derby. While specific events for the day are yet to be announced, guests can anticipate a blend of thrilling races and the unique charm that only Churchill Downs can provide. It's the perfect occasion to experience the traditions and energy that make Derby Week unforgettable.

Thurby

Celebrate Kentucky Culture at Thurby on Thursday April 30, 2026, at Churchill Downs. This beloved tradition blends the thrill of live racing with the vibrant spirit of Kentucky. Enjoy a day filled with exciting races, local music, and the finest bourbon, all set against the historic backdrop of Churchill Downs. Thurby offers a uniquely local experience, capturing the essence of Derby Week in a more relaxed atmosphere. It's the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditions and flavors that make this week so special.

Kentucky Oaks

Experience the Elegance of the Kentucky Oaks on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Churchill Downs. This prestigious event showcases the finest three-year-old fillies competing in the Grade I stakes race, a tradition since 1875. Known as "Lilies for the Fillies," the winner receives a garland of lilies and a silver Kentucky Oaks Trophy. Attendees are encouraged to wear pink to support breast and ovarian cancer awareness, adding a meaningful cause to the day's festivities. With a purse of $1.5 million and a race distance of 1? miles, the Kentucky Oaks is a highlight of Derby Week, offering a blend of thrilling competition and heartfelt tradition.

Kentucky Derby

Experience the 152nd Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” this iconic race is the first leg of the Triple Crown and attracts spectators from around the world. The day is filled with thrilling races, vibrant fashion, and the traditional mint julep, culminating in the 1¼-mile race that crowns the champion three-year-old Thoroughbred. Whether you're a seasoned racing fan or a first-time attendee, the Kentucky Derby offers an unforgettable blend of sport and Southern hospitality.

Visit Louisville

Louisville, Kentucky, situated along the scenic Ohio River, is a dynamic city celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, historic architecture, and vibrant culinary scene. Visitors can delve into the city's storied past at landmarks like the Kentucky Derby Museum, Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, wander through the Victorian-era charm of Old Louisville, and savor a diverse array of dining options that reflect the city's unique blend of Southern and urban influences.

Kentucky Derby Museum

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

The Big Four Bridge

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

"I tell you waiting for the Derby to start is the longest day of your life… it’s just a unique time of thrill and tension and worry."

- Penny Chenery, known as the "First Lady of Racing," was the owner of Secretariat and a pioneering figure in horse racing.

About Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs is one of the most legendary horse racing venues in the world. It’s located in Louisville, Kentucky, and opened in 1875. The racetrack is best known for hosting the Kentucky Derby, but it’s also home to other major races and events throughout the year.

What makes Churchill Downs special? It’s famous for its iconic Twin Spires, the tradition of mint juleps, and the unforgettable excitement of Derby Day. The atmosphere is filled with Southern charm, history, and high-stakes competition.

Here are a few cool facts about Churchill Downs:

It has hosted the Kentucky Derby every year since 1875.
The Twin Spires have become a symbol of horse racing around the world.
The Kentucky Derby is the longest continuously held sporting event in the U.S.
More than 150,000 fans attend the Derby each year.

Many people say attending a race at Churchill Downs is a bucket-list experience. It’s the perfect place to feel the thrill of racing history in an iconic setting.