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Known as the “fastest two minutes in sports,” the Kentucky Derby is one of the most exciting and prestigious sporting events in the United States — if not the world.Held annually since 1875 at Churchill Downs in the Southeastern city of Louisville, Kentucky, this race of 3-year-old thoroughbred horses is the longest-running continuous sporting event in the U.S.
For the 155,000 people who typically attend Derby (as locals call it) annually on the first Saturday of May, it’s more than just a horse race. It’s a weekend-long celebration. On Friday, Churchill Downs hosts the Kentucky Oaks race. That night, the parties move to Louisville’s ballrooms and mansions for black-tie galas, as well as the city’s restaurants and bars (many stay open all night during Derby weekend) for more informal festivities. Then on Saturday, Churchill Downs hosts another full day of races, with the marquee event around 6:30 p.m.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Louisville, Kentucky, United States