May 2, 2026 | Churchill Downs, Louisville KY
Your Complete Guide to the 2026 Kentucky Derby
Everything you need for the 152nd Run for the Roses — from contenders and betting to Louisville travel, bourbon distilleries, and the traditions that make the Derby unforgettable.
152nd
Running
May 2, 2026
Race Day
Churchill Downs
Louisville, KY
$5M+
Guaranteed Purse
Everything You Need to Know
Seven comprehensive guides covering every aspect of the Kentucky Derby experience, from the race itself to the bourbon that flows all week long.
Race Day
Contenders, odds, race schedule, and everything about the 152nd Run for the Roses.
- Top contenders & early odds
- Road to the Derby standings
- Post time & TV coverage
- Kentucky Oaks preview
Explore Race Day
Betting Guide
How to bet on the Derby, bet types explained, strategies, and where to place your wagers.
- Beginner's betting guide
- Exotic bets explained
- Bankroll strategies
- Best sportsbooks for racing
Explore Betting Guide
Derby History
Over 150 years of Kentucky Derby history, past winners, Triple Crown champions, and famous moments.
- Complete winners list
- Triple Crown champions
- Famous upsets & records
- Churchill Downs history
Explore Derby History
Attend the Derby
Tickets, seating guide, what to wear, Derby hats, and a first-timer's complete guide.
- Ticket options & pricing
- Seating map & sections
- Dress code & outfit ideas
- First-timer checklist
Explore Attend the Derby
Louisville Guide
Where to stay, eat, and explore in Louisville during Derby week and beyond.
- Best hotels near Churchill Downs
- Top restaurants & bars
- Neighborhood guide
- Getting around Louisville
Explore Louisville Guide
Bourbon Trail
Distillery tours, the Urban Bourbon Trail, Whiskey Row, and Louisville's bourbon scene.
- Distillery tours & maps
- Urban Bourbon Trail
- Whiskey Row guide
- Bourbon cocktail recipes
Explore Bourbon Trail
Derby Culture
Mint juleps, Derby party planning, food recipes, fashion, and the traditions that define the Derby.
- Mint julep recipe
- Derby party planning
- Hat traditions & fashion
- Classic Derby recipes
Explore Derby Culture
Start Planning Your Derby Experience
Whether you’re attending in person or watching from home, here’s how to make the most of the first Saturday in May.
Learn the Basics
Start with the race overview to understand the date, time, field, and what makes the Derby special. Then check out the current contenders and early odds.
Race OverviewPlan Your Visit
Secure tickets early, book a hotel near Churchill Downs, and plan your outfits. Derby Week sells out fast, so advance planning is essential.
Attendance GuidePlace Your Bets
Whether it’s your first bet or you’re a seasoned handicapper, our guides cover everything from win/place/show to exotic wagers.
Betting GuideExplore Louisville
Louisville is much more than the Derby. Discover incredible restaurants, vibrant neighborhoods, and the world-famous bourbon scene.
Louisville GuideTour the Bourbon Trail
No Derby trip is complete without bourbon. Visit legendary distilleries, explore Whiskey Row, and sample Kentucky’s signature spirit.
Bourbon TrailEmbrace the Traditions
Mix the perfect mint julep, plan a Derby party, and dive into the fashion, food, and culture that make the Derby an American institution.
Derby CultureMost Popular Guides
Jump straight to our readers’ favorites.
Latest Derby Updates
Stay up to date with the latest contender news, odds movements, and Derby Week developments as we count down to May 2.
Contenders
Early Favorites Emerging for 2026
Paladin leads the futures market at 9-1 as the prep season heats up, with Incredibolt and Commandment close behind on the Road to the Derby leaderboard.
Read MorePlanning
Derby Week 2026 Schedule Announced
From Sunday Funday to Dawn at the Downs, the full Derby Week schedule is packed with events from April 25 through May 2 at Churchill Downs.
Read MoreCulture
The Perfect Mint Julep for Derby Day
Master the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby with our step-by-step recipe guide, from selecting your bourbon to the proper crushed ice technique.
Read MoreThe 152nd Kentucky Derby Awaits
Saturday, May 2, 2026 at Churchill Downs. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or experiencing the Derby for the first time, we’ve got you covered from post to finish.