The Kentucky Derby is an iconic horse race that takes place in Louisville, Kentucky. It is held on the first Saturday in May every year and is known as "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports." The race is open to three-year-old Thoroughbred horses, and the winner receives a blanket of roses and a gold cup.
If you're planning to attend the Kentucky Derby, it's important to know when the race starts. The race begins at approximately 6:57 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). However, the festivities begin much earlier in the day. Gates open at 8:00 a.m. ET, and there are many activities to enjoy before the race, including concerts, food vendors, and fashion shows.
In addition to the race, there are many other things to see and do in Louisville during the Kentucky Derby weekend. You can visit the Kentucky Derby Museum, take a tour of Churchill Downs, or explore the city's many bars and restaurants.
What time does the Kentucky Derby start
The Kentucky Derby is an iconic horse race held annually in Louisville, Kentucky, on the first Saturday in May.
- Race begins at 6:57 p.m. ET
- Gates open at 8:00 a.m. ET
- Many activities before the race
- Concerts, food vendors, fashion shows
- Kentucky Derby Museum
- Churchill Downs tours
- Explore Louisville's bars and restaurants
With its exciting atmosphere and rich history, the Kentucky Derby is a must-see event for any horse racing fan.
Race begins at 6:57 p.m. ET
The Kentucky Derby is held on the first Saturday in May each year, and the race traditionally begins at 6:57 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). This timing is significant for several reasons.
- Historical Significance:
The 6:57 p.m. start time has been a tradition for many years, and it is said to have originated in the early 1900s. At the time, the race was held in the afternoon, but it was moved to the evening to accommodate radio broadcasts. The 6:57 p.m. start time was chosen because it allowed for the race to be broadcast live to the East Coast.
- Prime Time Viewing:
The 6:57 p.m. start time also coincides with prime time viewing hours in the United States. This means that more people are able to watch the race live on television, which helps to increase the event's popularity and viewership.
- Sunset Timing:
The 6:57 p.m. start time is also ideal for the race because it allows for the race to be run under ideal lighting conditions. The sun is typically setting around this time, which creates a beautiful and dramatic backdrop for the race.
- Consistency:
Finally, the 6:57 p.m. start time provides consistency for fans and bettors. Knowing the exact time that the race will begin allows people to plan their day accordingly and ensures that they don't miss any of the action.
While the 6:57 p.m. start time is not set in stone and can be adjusted slightly due to weather or other factors, it has become an iconic part of the Kentucky Derby tradition.
Gates open at 8:00 a.m. ET
The Kentucky Derby is a full-day event, and the gates to Churchill Downs open early to allow plenty of time for fans to arrive and enjoy the festivities. Here are some details about the 8:00 a.m. ET gate opening:
Early Arrival:
Many Derby fans arrive early to soak up the atmosphere and excitement of the day. The gates opening at 8:00 a.m. allows people to enter the track and secure a good spot to watch the race or participate in the many activities and events that take place throughout the day.
Pre-Race Activities:
There is much to see and do at Churchill Downs before the race begins. Fans can visit the Kentucky Derby Museum, take a tour of the track, or explore the many food and beverage vendors. There are also often live music performances and other entertainment options available.
Tailgating:
Tailgating is a popular tradition at the Kentucky Derby, and many fans arrive early to set up their tailgate parties in the parking lots surrounding Churchill Downs. Tailgating allows fans to socialize, eat, drink, and enjoy the day's festivities before the race.
General Admission:
General admission tickets to the Kentucky Derby allow access to the track's infield area, where fans can watch the race from a standing-room-only location. The infield is a lively and energetic area with a festive atmosphere, and it is a great place to experience the excitement of the Derby up close.
Whether you're a seasoned Derby fan or attending for the first time, arriving early allows you to make the most of the day and enjoy all that the Kentucky Derby has to offer.
Many activities before the race
The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race; it's a full-day event with many activities and attractions to enjoy before the race begins. Here are some of the most popular things to do at Churchill Downs on Derby Day:
- Fashion Show:
The Kentucky Derby is known for its fashionable attire, and many attendees dress up in their finest outfits for the event. There is even a fashion show held in the infield, where attendees can compete for prizes for the best-dressed.
- Live Music:
There are several stages set up throughout Churchill Downs, featuring live music performances by a variety of artists. This provides a lively and entertaining atmosphere for fans to enjoy as they wait for the race to begin.
- Food and Beverage:
Churchill Downs offers a wide variety of food and beverage options, from traditional Derby fare like mint juleps and hot browns to international cuisine and gourmet treats. There are also many food trucks and vendors located outside the track.
- Betting:
Of course, no Kentucky Derby would be complete without betting on the race. There are many betting windows located throughout Churchill Downs, and fans can also wager on the race online or through mobile apps.
These are just a few of the many activities that fans can enjoy before the Kentucky Derby race. With so much to see and do, it's easy to see why the Derby is one of the most popular sporting events in the world.
Concerts, food vendors, fashion shows
The Kentucky Derby is known for its extravagant atmosphere and over-the-top festivities, and the concerts, food vendors, and fashion shows are all part of what makes the event so special.
Concerts:
Throughout the day, several stages are set up throughout Churchill Downs, featuring live music performances by a variety of artists. These concerts provide a lively and entertaining atmosphere for fans to enjoy as they wait for the race to begin. In recent years, the Derby has hosted big-name acts like Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, and Taylor Swift.
Food Vendors:
Churchill Downs offers a wide variety of food options to satisfy every taste. From classic Derby fare like mint juleps and hot browns to international cuisine and gourmet treats, there's something for everyone. There are also many food trucks and vendors located outside the track, offering a more casual dining experience.
Fashion Shows:
The Kentucky Derby is known for its fashionable attire, and many attendees dress up in their finest outfits for the event. There is even a fashion show held in the infield, where attendees can compete for prizes for the best-dressed. The fashion show is a fun and festive way to celebrate the Derby's unique style.
These are just a few of the many attractions that make the Kentucky Derby a truly unique and unforgettable experience. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that the Derby is one of the most popular sporting events in the world.
Kentucky Derby Museum
The Kentucky Derby Museum is a must-visit attraction for any fan of the Kentucky Derby or horse racing in general. The museum is located just across the street from Churchill Downs, and it offers a fascinating and interactive look at the history and culture of the Derby.
The museum has a wide variety of exhibits, including:
- A life-size replica of the Kentucky Derby winner's circle
- A collection of Derby trophies and memorabilia
- A film about the history of the Derby
- Interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about horse racing and the Derby
The museum also has a research library and a gift shop. The research library is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the Derby and horse racing history. The gift shop sells a variety of Derby-themed souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, and glasses.
The Kentucky Derby Museum is a great place to visit year-round, but it is especially popular during Derby Week. During Derby Week, the museum offers extended hours and special events, such as autograph signings and meet-and-greets with Derby jockeys and trainers.
Whether you're a lifelong Derby fan or just visiting Louisville for the first time, the Kentucky Derby Museum is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of this iconic sporting event.
Churchill Downs tours
Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, offers a variety of tours that allow visitors to go behind the scenes and learn more about the iconic racetrack.
The most popular tour is the Backside Tour. This 60-minute tour takes visitors through the stables, the paddock, and the track apron. Visitors will learn about the history of Churchill Downs, the horses that race there, and the training regimen that goes into preparing a horse for the Derby.
Another popular tour is the Millionaire's Row Tour. This 90-minute tour takes visitors inside the exclusive Millionaire's Row area of Churchill Downs. Millionaire's Row is where the wealthy and famous watch the Derby, and it offers a luxurious view of the track. Visitors will also learn about the history of Millionaire's Row and the celebrities who have been spotted there.
For a more in-depth experience, visitors can book a private tour of Churchill Downs. Private tours can be customized to fit the interests of the group, and they can include a visit to the track's archives or a meet-and-greet with a Derby jockey or trainer.
All tours of Churchill Downs are led by knowledgeable and experienced guides. Tours are available year-round, but they are especially popular during Derby Week. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
Whether you're a lifelong racing fan or just visiting Louisville for the first time, a tour of Churchill Downs is a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the Kentucky Derby.
Explore Louisville's bars and restaurants
Louisville is known for its vibrant culinary scene, and there are many great bars and restaurants to choose from. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, you're sure to find something to your taste in Louisville.
- Bourbon Bars:
Louisville is the birthplace of bourbon, and there are many great bourbon bars to choose from. Some of the most popular bourbon bars include the Old Seelbach Bar, the Brown Hotel Lobby Bar, and the Bourbon Raw. These bars offer a wide selection of bourbons, as well as cocktails and other drinks.
- Fine Dining Restaurants:
Louisville has a number of fine dining restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines. Some of the most popular fine dining restaurants include the Bristol Bar and Grille, the Oakroom, and the Le Relais. These restaurants offer a sophisticated dining experience, with expertly prepared dishes and attentive service.
- Casual Restaurants:
If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, there are many great casual restaurants to choose from in Louisville. Some of the most popular casual restaurants include the Garage Bar and Grill, the Holy Grale, and the Taco Luchador. These restaurants offer a variety of dishes, from burgers and fries to tacos and burritos.
- Rooftop Bars:
Louisville has a number of rooftop bars that offer stunning views of the city. Some of the most popular rooftop bars include the Sky Bar at the Galt House Hotel, the Rooftop at the Seelbach, and the Bar at the Louisville Palace. These bars offer a variety of drinks and snacks, as well as live music and DJs.
No matter what your taste, you're sure to find something to your liking in Louisville's vibrant culinary scene.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Kentucky Derby:
Question 1: What time does the Kentucky Derby start?
Answer 1: The Kentucky Derby traditionally begins at 6:57 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on the first Saturday in May.
Question 2: What is the Kentucky Derby Museum?
Answer 2: The Kentucky Derby Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Kentucky Derby. It is located across the street from Churchill Downs and features exhibits on the Derby's history, the horses that have won the race, and the fashion and traditions associated with the event.
Question 3: Can I tour Churchill Downs?
Answer 3: Yes, Churchill Downs offers a variety of tours that allow visitors to go behind the scenes and learn more about the iconic racetrack. Tours include the Backside Tour, the Millionaire's Row Tour, and private tours.
Question 4: What are some popular things to do in Louisville during Derby Week?
Answer 4: In addition to attending the Kentucky Derby, there are many other things to do in Louisville during Derby Week. These include visiting the Kentucky Derby Museum, taking a tour of Churchill Downs, exploring Louisville's bars and restaurants, and attending the many parties and events that take place throughout the city.
Question 5: What should I wear to the Kentucky Derby?
Answer 5: The Kentucky Derby is known for its fashionable attire. Many attendees dress up in their finest outfits, including hats, dresses, and suits. However, there is no strict dress code, and you can wear whatever you feel comfortable in.
Question 6: How can I bet on the Kentucky Derby?
Answer 6: There are many ways to bet on the Kentucky Derby. You can bet in person at Churchill Downs, online through a licensed sportsbook, or through a mobile betting app.
Question 7: What is the mint julep?
Answer 7: The mint julep is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. It is a cocktail made with bourbon, mint, sugar, and water.
We hope this FAQ has answered some of your questions about the Kentucky Derby. For more information, please visit the Kentucky Derby website.
Now that you know more about the Kentucky Derby, here are some tips for making the most of your experience:
Tips
Here are a few tips for making the most of your Kentucky Derby experience:
Tip 1: Plan ahead.
The Kentucky Derby is a popular event, so it's important to plan ahead. This includes booking your hotel and transportation in advance, as well as purchasing your tickets early. You should also familiarize yourself with the track layout and the different seating options.
Tip 2: Dress comfortably.
The Kentucky Derby is a day-long event, so it's important to dress comfortably. You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so make sure your shoes are comfortable and your clothes are breathable. If you're planning on wearing a hat, make sure it's secure and won't blow away in the wind.
Tip 3: Stay hydrated.
It's important to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially if you're drinking alcohol. There are many water stations located throughout Churchill Downs, so make sure to take advantage of them. You can also bring your own water bottle, but make sure it's empty when you enter the track.
Tip 4: Be aware of your surroundings.
The Kentucky Derby is a large event, and it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of the people around you. If you see anything suspicious, report it to a security guard or police officer.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable Kentucky Derby experience.
The Kentucky Derby is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. With its exciting racing, fashionable attire, and lively atmosphere, the Derby is a must-see event for any sports fan.
Conclusion
The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race; it's a cultural phenomenon that brings people together from all walks of life. Whether you're a lifelong racing fan or just visiting Louisville for the first time, the Derby is an event that you won't soon forget.
In this article, we've explored some of the key aspects of the Kentucky Derby, including its history, traditions, and the many things to see and do during Derby Week. We've also provided some tips for making the most of your Derby experience.
We hope that this article has given you a better understanding of the Kentucky Derby and inspired you to attend this iconic event.
So mark your calendars for the first Saturday in May and start planning your trip to the Kentucky Derby. We'll see you there!