The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby is set for Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Churchill Downs, marking the peak of a week filled with events in Louisville. The race will feature a field of 20 three-year-old thoroughbreds competing for a $5 million purse.
The post-position draw, determining the starting gate for each horse, is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 7:15 p.m. Eastern Time. This event kicks off the main week of activities leading up to the Derby.
Fans can watch the Kentucky Derby 2025 on several platforms. Live coverage begins on FanDuel TV at 10:30 a.m. ET on race day. Coverage will also be available on NBC and the USA TV Network.
Streaming options include the NBC Sports app, NBCSports.com, and Peacock. Additional viewing is available through Fubo. Coverage on USA and Peacock runs from Noon to 2:20 p.m. ET, before shifting to NBC, Peacock from 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ET. FanDuel TV will carry coverage through the final race of the day after 7:30 p.m. ET. The official post time for the Kentucky Derby race itself is 6:57 p.m. ET.
Ticket packages for Derby Day range from $999 to $11,000, with gates opening at 9 a.m. and the first race at 11 a.m. Spectators can watch the horses practice during Dawn at the Downs from April 24 to April 30, typically between 6:45 a.m. and 10 a.m. Dining options are available for Dawn at the Downs on April 26 and 27 starting at $54.30.
Derby week includes several other scheduled events at the track. Opening Night on April 26 features a Great Gatsby-inspired celebration. Tuesday, April 29, is 502's Day, celebrating the Louisville community and honoring Muhammad Ali with $5 general admission tickets. Winsday on April 30 is a new event highlighting local nonprofit organizations. Thurby, held on Thursday, May 1, focuses on Kentucky culture, including bourbon and music. The Kentucky Oaks race for three-year-old fillies takes place on Friday, May 2, featuring a $1.5 million purse and the traditional 'Pink Out'.
Betting on the race is available online through TwinSpires.com and its app or in person at the track betting windows. Parking at Churchill Downs is sold out, but rideshare drop-off and pick-up are at the Bronze Lot of L&N Stadium. Attendees should note bag policy limits and prohibited items like backpacks, coolers, and umbrellas.
Equibase has provided enhanced past performance data for expected Japanese runners, including Luxor Cafe, to offer comprehensive running lines similar to domestic entries. Gymnastics icon Simone Biles will give the "Riders up!" call, and Grammy-nominated Grace Potter will sing the National Anthem before the race.
