Your In-Depth Guide to Kentucky Derby 2024

The Kentucky Derby, often referred to as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” is a thrilling, high-stakes thoroughbred race held annually on the first Saturday in May. This longstanding tradition featuring three-year-old Thoroughbreds charging towards victory on a 1.25-mile (2km) long track serves as the first leg of the American Triple Crown.

More than just a sporting event, the Kentucky Derby is a festival that combines fashion, tradition, and entertainment that is celebrated in style.

Imagine the suspense as the competitors line up for the Kentucky Derby 150th running, a race where glory is gained in minutes but remembered for a lifetime. Dust your Kentucky Derby hats and get ready to cheer, gasp, and hold your breath when you book tickets to this fancy affair.

Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned equestrian enthusiast or a newcomer to the spectacle, the event is certain to provide a roller coaster of emotions and moments that’ll stay with you long after the final horse has crossed the finish line.

Follow along as we delve into the heart-stopping experience at the 2024 Kentucky Derby.

Securing Your Kentucky Derby Tickets 2024

Diving into the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby 2024, you’ll come across many ticket choices. Each one gives you a different way to enjoy this big event.

Let’s guide you through these options and the Kentucky Derby 2024 tickets price to be able to pick the one that suits your Derby experience best:

Standing Room Only & General Admission

Starting at $275

Experience firsthand the excitement and energy of the Kentucky Derby, either from the compelling chaos of the Infield or the dynamic hubbub of the Paddock with the unique Standing Room Only experiences.

Click here to purchase.

New Paddock Seating

Starting at $693

Churchill Downs’ revamped Paddock is strategically planned to elevate the spectator’s journey within the racetrack, offering an increase in seating capacity along with upgraded visuals of the Paddock.

Click here to learn more.

Reserved Seating

Starting at $650

One of the Kentucky Derby Packages 2024, reserved seating sold out fast.

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Snag this deal and prepare to be seated in front of the most symbolic racetrack in the entire world, allowing the electrifying atmosphere of outdoor racing to engulf you.

Dining starting at $1,375

Dive into a delectable food adventure at the Kentucky Derby. Feast on sumptuous cuisine, enjoy premium drinks and savor a dining experience to remember.

Private Suites

Starting at $135,000

Embrace the grandeur of the Kentucky Derby and Oaks by indulging in the luxury of a private suite for you and your companions. The suite facilities boast some of the top-most amenities that the world of professional sports has to offer.

 Get Set for the Thrills: Mark Your Calendar for the Kentucky Derby

Questions like “When is the Kentucky Derby 2024?” “What time is the Kentucky Derby race?” may be on your mind. The internationally renowned Kentucky Derby is set to take place on May 4, 2024.

While the precise timing of the race experiences slight changes from one year to the next, you can generally expect the event to kick off in the early evening hours, around 6:45 PM ET.

Join the ranks of every horse racing enthusiast worldwide, eagerly anticipating this grand event.

Galloping into Fun: A Look at the Vibrant Derby Week Festivities

Beyond the heart-stopping excitement of the horse races during the Kentucky Derby 2024 dates, countless other events are happening in Louisville during Derby Week that you certainly don’t want to miss.

Taste of Derby

When: May 2, 2024

Get ready to indulge your taste buds at the much-anticipated Taste of Derby Party, located right inside the Kentucky International Convention Center!

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The evening promises an irresistible gastronomic journey, featuring an assortment of delectable dishes and handpicked drinks for perfect pairing, all wrapped up in the unparalleled excitement of Derby.

Fillies & Lilies Party

When: May 3, 2024

Lose yourself in live performances, savor the delights of a private bourbon lounge, feast on exquisite food spreads and much more at the Fillies & Lilies Party, the authentic curtain-raiser for the Kentucky Derby.

Nestled within the Kentucky Derby Museum, this party on Derby’s Eve is your essential destination leading up to the main event of the weekend.

Barnstable Brown Gala

When: May 3, 2024

Did you know that the Barnstable Brown Gala 2024, positioned comfortably on Patricia Barnstable-Brown’s majestic hilltop mansion in Louisville, is honored globally as one of the ‘Top Ten Best Parties in the World’? It’s an event that beams with the glitz and glamour of celebrity stars.

Derby Rockin’ Eve

When: May 3, 2024

Get ready for a captivating night filled with melodies at the Paristown Arts & Entertainment District. Your participation in this all-embracing food and beverage event contributes to USA Cares’ cause and furthers its mission.

Plus, be thrilled as the stage garners double the excitement with the incredible country music artist Dustin Lynch and the dynamic fusion of country and pop brought to you by the dynamic duo Locash.

Unbridled Eve

When: May 3, 2024

Embrace a night imbued with distinguished Southern magic, grace, and hospitality at the eleventh rendition of the renowned Unbridled Eve Derby Gala.

You’re in for a treat with a splendid gourmet dinner located in the exquisitely adorned Grand Ballroom of the Galt House Hotel.

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Delight in a wide range of live performances by renowned celebrity musicians, and dance the night away with the ever-popular Louisville Crashers and other stellar national performers.

The Unbridled Eve Derby Gala is a top-tier event that you’ll undoubtedly want to incorporate into your annual Derby weekend traditions!

Winner’s Party

When: May 4, 2024

Right after the electrifying Kentucky Derby, up until 9:00 pm, and once the Kentucky Derby results are out, head to the Kentucky Derby Museum.

It’s time to bask in the afterglow of an exhilarating “Run for the Roses”, witnessing the anointment of a Triple Crown or a new Derby victor at the prestigious Winner’s Party.

Soak in the ambiance as you rub shoulders with the triumphant jockey, the masterful trainers, and the elated owners of Kentucky Derby horses, all while savoring a selection of tantalizing hors d’oeuvres, top-tier drinks, and an array of entertainment including music and dancing. What a marvelous finale to the 149th Kentucky Derby!

Derby Week Event Parking

Making early plans is essential for bagging a parking spot during Derby Week. Your parking pass will be delivered by USPS to the address you previously registered, long before the event.

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Churchill Downs located at 700 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208, United States is mindful of the parking and shuttle services at the Kentucky Exposition Center and has hence stopped offering any further onsite parking after a certain date.

It’s also noteworthy to remember that this consideration applies to each day of the event.

Nearby Hotels and Lodging in Louisville

If you’re planning your trip to the 2024 Kentucky Derby, you ought to consider finding lodgings in Louisville.

With a wide array of accommodation options available – from luxury hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts – you will be spoiled for choice.

Best Western Premier Airport/Expo Center Hotel

Location: 4110 Dixie Hwy, Louisville, KY 40216, United States

The Best Western Premier Airport/Expo Center Hotel is located within mere minutes from the Louisville Airport, offering unmatched convenience for travelers.

Coupled with extensive amenities, including:

• luxurious rooms
• indoor pool
• premium fitness center
• full-service restaurant

It ensures a comfortable stay for visitors. Moreover, with its proximity to the Expo Center, the hotel proves to be an ideal choice for those attending the Kentucky Derby, providing unparalleled accessibility and efficiency.

Book this convenient hotel once you’ve secured your Kentucky Derby Packages 2024 for a smooth viewing experience.

Courtyard by Marriott Louisville Airport

Location: 819 Phillips Ln, Louisville, KY 40209, United States

Just a stone’s throw away from the heart of the 2024 Kentucky Derby, the Courtyard by Marriott Louisville Airport is your perfect home base.

Its first-rate amenities, exceptional service, and comfortable accommodations offer an inviting place to relax after a day at the races. It truly provides an unmatched convenience for any racing enthusiast or casual visitor alike.

Hampton Inn Louisville-Airport

Location: 800 Phillips Ln, Louisville, KY 40209, United States

If you’re planning to spectate the Kentucky Derby 2024, consider making your stay at the Hampton Inn Louisville-Airport.

This well-tailored establishment is not just a comfortable sanctuary after a long day enjoying the races. It also offers convenient proximity to Churchill Downs, the iconic venue of the Kentucky Derby.

Located merely 5 miles from the illustrious racetrack, it provides smooth transportation options. Especially for those eager not to miss a minute of the action.

Hilton Garden Inn Louisville Airport

Location: 2735 Crittenden Dr, Louisville, KY 40209, United States

If you’re planning your visit to Kentucky Derby 2024, Hilton Garden Inn Louisville Airport can serve as your home base.

Marvel at their singular service, pristine rooms, and luxury amenities, meticulously designed to enhance your stay. This travel package is worth every penny.

Holiday Inn Express Louisville Airport Expo Center

Location: 1921 Bishop Ln, Louisville, KY 40218, United States

With luxurious accommodations and conveniences, Holiday Inn Express provides unmatched service making visitors feel luxuriously well-taken care of.

Toss in the free breakfast serving piping hot delights, and your lodging becomes not merely favorable but extraordinarily comforting, enhancing your Kentucky Derby 2024 adventure in all the right ways.

Feel the Excitement of Kentucky Derby 2024

Become part of the exhilarating crowd, soaking up the adrenaline and excitement that only a live horse race can provide. The thunderous symphony of galloping hooves at the Kentucky Derby 2024 is a spine-tingling moment that is truly second to none.

From wearing your finest attire and donning an extravagant hat, to sipping on the traditional Mint Julep, the Kentucky Derby is steeped in age-old traditions that make for an unforgettable cultural experience.  Grab your Kentucky Derby 2024 tickets now and avoid missing a single moment!