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Derby questions, answered

DERBY 153*SAT MAY 1 2027*177 DAYS TO POST*OAKS FRI APR 30*UP TO 20 HORSES*1.25 MILES*ABOUT 2 MINUTES*DERBY 153*SAT MAY 1 2027*177 DAYS TO POST*OAKS FRI APR 30*UP TO 20 HORSES*1.25 MILES*ABOUT 2 MINUTES*DERBY 153*SAT MAY 1 2027*177 DAYS TO POST*OAKS FRI APR 30*UP TO 20 HORSES*1.25 MILES*ABOUT 2 MINUTES*DERBY 153*SAT MAY 1 2027*177 DAYS TO POST*OAKS FRI APR 30*UP TO 20 HORSES*1.25 MILES*ABOUT 2 MINUTES*

When is the 2027 Kentucky Derby?

Saturday, May 1, 2027, at Churchill Downs in Louisville. The Derby always runs on the first Saturday in May, and the Kentucky Oaks runs the day before.

What do you drink at the Derby?

A mint julep: bourbon, fresh mint, simple syrup and a lot of crushed ice, served very cold in a metal cup or a souvenir glass.

What should I serve at a Derby party?

Juleps, bourbon balls, pecan pie and small savory bites. Make everything ahead so you can watch the race.

What makes a good Derby gift?

Something that could only come from Kentucky: bourbon balls, a julep cup, a track-worn horseshoe or a collector glass from a year that matters.

How long is the Kentucky Derby?

1¼ miles on dirt. It takes about two minutes.

How many horses run in the Derby?

Up to 20.

What is the Kentucky Oaks?

A race for three-year-old fillies, run the day before the Derby.

What song do they play at the Derby?

“My Old Kentucky Home,” as the horses come onto the track.

What is the Derby record?

Secretariat’s 1:59 2/5 from 1973.

Who won the 2026 Kentucky Derby?

Golden Tempo won the 152nd Kentucky Derby.