Kentucky Derby Day
May 2, 2026
The Kentucky Derby is a tradition that takes place on the first Saturday in May.
#KentuckyDerby
Its long and storied history brings out a taste for mint juleps, colorful sun hats and a thrill for the race. The jockeys and horses will prepare for the day at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The first in the Triple Crown series, The Kentucky Derby will be followed The Preakness Stakes and The Belmont Stakes. While both The Preakness and The Belmont are the older races, The Derby has run continuously since its inception in 1875.
The beautiful horses and the bustling crowds under the spring sunshine make for an exciting day of racing. Add to the months of training and any money at stake, and the nervous butterflies of the event
The Kentucky Derby is broadcast live, so anyone can enjoy the thrill of the race. Tune in, or go to the race. Pick your horse and cheer for place, show or win! Use #KentuckyDerby to share on social media.
KENTUCKY DERBY HISTORY
The Kentucky Derby’s first race took place on May 17, 1875. It was inspired by the Epsom Derby in England attended by the grandson of Meriwether Lewis Clark. In 1872, William Clark traveled to Europe and developed a taste for horseracing after his experiences at the Epsom Derby. Upon returning to the U.S., he pursued creating a Thoroughbred racetrack in Kentucky. In 1875, the Kentucky Derby was born in Louisville and has remained ever since.
