Kentucky Derby Tickets

Kentucky Derby Tickets From GoTickets

When you buy tickets for the Kentucky Derby at GoTickets.com, you'll enjoy a straightforward purchase process that can be completed in a few clicks. Our platform makes it simple to save your spot, and with every transaction backed by a guarantee, you can rest assured you’re in good hands. This peace of mind lets you focus on enjoying a memorable day at the races!

The History & Significance of the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is a prestigious thoroughbred horse race held in Louisville, originally established by Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., the grandson of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. He was inspired by the Epsom Derby in England and the Grand Prix de Paris in France and wanted to create something similar in the United States. As the inaugural Run for the Roses unfolded on May 17, 1875, at the Louisville Jockey Club, it struck a chord with the crowd. Thus began a tradition that would be celebrated annually for centuries.

The Grade I stakes race is run on a 1.25-mile dirt track that tests the tenacity and training of participants. While earning the trophy is an amazing feat, it merely marks the beginning of the Triple Crown series, which also includes the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore and the Belmont Stakes in New York. Winning this trio of contests requires significant speed, stamina, and determination, as horses must emerge victorious at three challenging races in five weeks. Securing the coveted title is among the sport’s highest accomplishments, achieved only by the most elite three-year-old thoroughbreds. 

Kentucky Derby Activities & Traditions

Each spring, pomp and circumstance take over the city of Louisville as locals and travelers alike gear up for the Kentucky Derby. The race is held on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs, but the entire area becomes a stage, set for an array of festivities that fill the weeks leading up to the big day. They kick off with Thunder Over Louisville, one of the largest annual fireworks displays in North America. 

The Kentucky Derby Festival features over 70 events including the family-friendly and colorful Pegasus Parade, the thrilling Great Steamboat Race, and the Kentucky Oaks race, which pits fillies against each other and serves as a precursor to the main event. Dawn at the Downs allows VIPs to catch a glimpse of morning workouts at the track while expert commentators weigh in on the prospects.

As Derby Day approaches, mint Juleps, made with the finest Kentucky bourbon and fresh mint, flow freely. Attendees arrive in their best attire—men are decked out in sharp suits or bold sport coats while women wear elegant dresses paired with stylishly sophisticated or exuberantly extravagant headpieces. The Best Hat Contest adds an element of fun to the sartorial display!

Once the starting pistol sounds, excitement reaches a fever pitch, as everyone waits to see how the “Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” will end. Then, all eyes are on the Winner’s Circle, where the equine victor is draped in the Garland of Roses, an extraordinary emblem made of over 400 red roses. Finally, the winning team is presented with an exquisite 14-karat-gold trophy, adding to the richness of the occasion.

Moments That Made Headlines

The Kentucky Derby captures the attention of people all over the world. Celebrities and racing royalty are common sights under the Twin Spires at Churchill Downs, but even amidst the glitz and glamor, certain moments have managed to stand out! We’re delving into some of the most stylish and sensational cameos, as well as the most stunning and significant endings in Derby history.

Fabulous Hats & Fascinators

Once you secure your Kentucky Derby tickets, you’ll need to find yourself a fancy hat! Derby headgear was initially worn by spectators who wanted protection from the sweltering Kentucky sun, but in the 20th century, it became more of a fashion statement. Fascinators adorned with feathers and fedoras sprouting flowers are still popular today. These superstars took their style to the next level: 

• Miranda Lambert (2011): Country music star Miranda Lambert brought her bridal party to the race, and when it came to her accouterments, she stayed true to her roots. She wore a ladylike wide-brimmed cream hat, adorned with floral accents and a bow, with a cute lacy dress and her signature cowboy boots, blending traditional Southern charm with her personal panache.

• Cyndi Lauper (2012): Singer Cyndi Lauper has never shied away from an opportunity to make a splash. As the Derby Festival's grand marshal, she looked the part in an oversized red hat with a massive brim, adding a traditional touch to her tomato-covered dress designed by Dolce&Gabbana. Her ensemble is now in the vault at the Kentucky Derby Museum.

• Michelle Williams (2019): Actress and Destiny's Child singer Michelle Williams turned heads with her vintage-inspired giant blush hat. The beautiful bonnet was adorned with an intricate tulle bow and purple, white, and peach feathers. It added a bit of whimsy to a sophisticated, shoulder-baring pastel floral sundress that featured a loosely pleated high-low bottom.

• Tori Kelly (2021): Singer-songwriter Tori Kelly served double duty, first appearing in a lavender fascinator, designed by Christine A. Moore Millinery, which perfectly complemented her elaborate Marc Jacobs ruffled floral maxi dress. Then, she sported a more subdued blue and yellow Stella McCartney dress and topped it off with a wide-brimmed hat covered with yellow embellishments.

• Johnny Weir (2021): Olympic figure skating icons Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir were quite the pair in Derby City. Lipinski kept it classy with a streamlined dress, her loose braid intertwined with ribbons. Weir, known for his flamboyant fashion sense, dressed up his shimmering gold suit by donning a rose-covered mohawk-shaped headpiece with a mint julep tucked in the leaves.

Notable National Anthem Performances

Stirring renditions of the “Star-Spangled Banner” from renowned singers have been a hallmark of the Kentucky Derby. When artistry and emotion converge, fans are treated to unforgettable interpretations of our nation’s most patriotic musical masterpiece. These vocalists made the most of their time in the spotlight, delivering performances that moved millions of viewers: 

• 2009: LeAnn Rimes

• 2012: Mary J. Blige

• 2013: Martina McBride

• 2018: Pentatonix

• 2023: Carly Pearce

Tremendous Kentucky Derby Triumphs

The element of surprise defines the essence of the Kentucky Derby. From long-standing rivalries to underdog glory, displays of skill and determination, often yielding unexpected results, have added to the allure of the race. The following events have been etched into the hearts and minds of equestrian aficionados and sports fans around the globe: 

• 1919: Sir Barton blazed his way into the record books when he crossed the finish line first at the Kentucky Derby and went on to win the Preakness and Belmont Stakes, making him the first Triple Crown winner. He set the standard for excellence in the sport.

• 1973: With the grace of a champion and the heart of a titan, Secretariat started in the eleventh position but shattered records when he flew past his competition and earned an indisputable 2 1/2 length win in under two minutes. His legendary sprint was nothing short of cinematic.

• 1978: Kentucky native Steve Cauthen, then just 18, guided Affirmed through a high-stakes duel with Alydar, bringing a rivalry that spanned their entire careers to a head. Each stride intensified the battle, but Affirmed came out on top and subsequently swept the Triple Crown series.

• 1993: After a six-month drought, against all odds, Sea Hero found his moment. Jockey Jerry Bailey’s strategic decision to remove his blinkers allowed him to claim victory, defying the pundits and delighting underdogs everywhere. These are the twists that make the Derby such a big draw.

• 2008: Emerging from Post 20, Big Brown faced a seemingly insurmountable challenge. Yet, he and jockey Kent Desormeaux beat the odds, surging from the outside to gain a five-length lead that earned them the title, proving champions can come from anywhere—even the farthest gate.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Kentucky Derby?

The Kentucky Derby is held annually on the first Saturday of May, making it a springtime tradition. More than 150,000 people are expected to attend. Don't miss out! Get your tickets at GoTickets.com.

Where is the Kentucky Derby held?

The Kentucky Derby is held in Louisville at the Churchill Downs historic racetrack on Central Ave. It opened in 1875 and was named in honor of John and Henry Churchill, who provided the land.

Where can I buy Kentucky Derby tickets?

Tickets to the Kentucky Derby can be purchased from trusted sellers at GoTickets.com, where the authenticity of each listing is verified and every sale is backed by a 100% buyer guarantee. 

How much are Kentucky Derby tickets?

The Run for the Roses is considered the “Greatest Two Minutes in Sports,” so Kentucky Derby tickets are always in demand. Therefore, the cost can vary. Check current pricing at GoTickets.com.

What is the Kentucky Oaks?

The Kentucky Oaks is a horse race that features fillies, held each year on the Friday before the Kentucky Derby. It’s part of an annual festival in Louisville that includes over 170 activities.

Where do I buy tickets to the Kentucky Oaks?

Kentucky Oaks tickets are sold at GoTickets.com, a premier online marketplace where reliable sellers list available seats. Explore the options, and lock in your access while you still can!

Are Kentucky Derby tickets sold out?

Even if tickets for the Kentucky Derby and related events seem to be sold out, don’t lose hope! You can often find tickets at GoTickets.com. Every purchase is protected with a buyer guarantee.