Ask the Chatbot Games & Quizzes History & Society Science & Tech Biographies Animals & Nature Geography & Travel Arts & Culture ProCon Money Videos
verifiedCite
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.
Select Citation Style

When is the Kentucky Derby?

Written and fact-checked by
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree....
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica

The Kentucky Derby, the most prestigious American horse race, is held annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky. The race typically starts shortly before 7 PM Eastern Time, and it usually lasts about two minutes. In 2026 the Kentucky Derby will be held on May 2.