Are you looking for somewhere to wear a big hat and get dressed up? We have a list of Kentucky Derby events in Wichita this year. The Kentucky Derby is on May 2nd, 2026. The Derby is one of the most prestigious horse races in the United States, held annually in Louisville, Kentucky, on the first Saturday in May. It’s the first leg of the American Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.
The Kentucky Derby was first run in 1875 at Churchill Downs, and it has since become one of the longest-running sporting events in the U.S. It has a rich history and is often referred to as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” due to its typically short duration.
Fun Facts About the Kentucky Derby
- Churchill Downs has seats for 150,000 guests for the race.
- The winner will receive $3.1 million, with the runner-up getting $1 million. Third place will make $500,000, fourth will make $250,000, and fifth will take home $150,000.
- The infield of Churchill Downs is known for its lively party atmosphere during the Kentucky Derby.
- A famous tradition is that attendees wear elaborate hats and drink Mint Juleps.
- Winning the Kentucky Derby is a significant achievement for any horse, but the ultimate goal for many owners and trainers is the Triple Crown. A horse must win the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes (held two weeks after the Derby), and the Belmont Stakes (held three weeks after the Preakness) to claim the Triple Crown.
- The winning horse of the Kentucky Derby is draped with a garland of roses, a tradition that dates back to 1896 when the rose became the official flower of the race.
- Donerail holds the record for being the longest shot to win the Kentucky Derby, with odds of 91-1 when he won in 1913.
2026 Kentucky Derby Info:
When is the Kentucky Derby 2026?
- May 2, 2026
What time is the Kentucky Derby?
- Derby starts approximately at 5:57 p.m. Central Time.
Where can you watch the Kentucky Derby?
- On NBC and USA Network
- Steaming on Peacock, NBC Sports App
Kentucky Derby Events in Wichita
Gilley’s Kentucky Derby
Date: May 1 -2
Time: All Day
Event: Celebrate the Kentucky Derby at Gilley’s Gambling Hall with an all-day event introducing Trackside, a new simulcast betting experience. Festivities kick off Friday with Kentucky Oaks coverage and continue Saturday with live races, betting, and themed entertainment. Enjoy mint juleps, wagering tips, a Best Hat contest, giveaways, and photo ops. The night wraps up with fireworks at 10 pm for a full Derby weekend experience.
Cost: Free to attend
Diamond Spring Ranch Kentucky Derby
Date: May 2
Time: The doors and bar open at 4 pm.
Event: Dress up in your derby best and come experience the run for the roses at Diamond Springs Ranch in Sedgwick.
Cost: Free to attend
Wichita Riding Academy Kentucky Derby Event
Date: May 2
Time: 5 – 6:15 pm
Event: Join Wichita Riding Academy for a FREE Derby Day Party celebrating the Run for the Roses. Guests can enjoy non-alcoholic mint juleps, treats, and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Activities include fascinator-making, stick horse races for all ages, and plenty of pre-race excitement. Dress in your best Derby style, with big hats and festive outfits encouraged.
Cost: Free
Bronx Pizza & Pints Kentucky Derby
Date: May 2
Deal: They are serving $9 Mint Juleps. You can call 316-239-6022 to reserve a table.
O’Brien’s Kentucky Derby:
Date: May 2
Event: Celebrate Derby Day at O’Brien’s with mint juleps, prizes, and plenty of fun. Show off your style in the Best Hat Contest and enjoy giveaways throughout the day. Whether you’re there for the races, drinks, or a good time with friends, there’s something for everyone. Come early, grab a julep, and join the party.
The Kentucky Derby at the Stop
Date: May 2
Deal: The Stop always has reasonable drink prices, but for the derby, they will be serving Mint Juleps and opening early.
Fun Fact: The Stop has karaoke every day!
Oliver’s Lounge Kentucky Derby
Date: May 2
Event: Celebrate Derby Day at Oliver’s Lounge for their Annual Kentucky Derby Watch Party. Enjoy themed appetizers, Woodford mint juleps, and a chance to win prizes by picking the winning horse. Guests are encouraged to dress to impress for a stylish and high-energy event. Reservations are $15 and are highly recommended, as seats are expected to sell out.
Kentucky Derby at Bubbles
Date: May 2
Event: Celebrate the Kentucky Derby at Bubbles (part of the Workroom in Downtown Wichita) with mint juleps, cocktail specials, and races on the big screen. Enjoy keep-the-glass Angels Envy and Woodford juleps while taking in the fun. Dress to impress for a chance to win Best Dressed. It’s a lively spot to watch, sip, and celebrate Derby Day.
Things to do for the Kentucky Derby in Wichita
Kentucky Derby Movies
Several movies have portrayed or referenced the Kentucky Derby in various ways. Here are My Top Movies:
- Secretariat (2010): This film is based on the true story of the legendary racehorse Secretariat, who won the Triple Crown in 1973. While the movie focuses on Secretariat’s entire career, including the Kentucky Derby, it offers a compelling depiction of the excitement and drama of the race.
- Seabiscuit (2003): Although Seabiscuit didn’t compete in the Kentucky Derby, the movie portrays the horse’s rise to fame during the Great Depression era, culminating in his legendary match race against War Admiral. While not directly about the Kentucky Derby, it’s a classic horse racing film.
- The First Saturday in May (2007): This documentary follows six trainers and their horses as they prepare for the 2006 Kentucky Derby. It provides an inside look at the world of horse racing leading up to the prestigious event.
- Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story (2005): While not centered solely on the Kentucky Derby, this film tells the story of a racehorse named Sonador and her unlikely journey to racing success. The Kentucky Derby features prominently in the film as a pinnacle of achievement in the racing world.
- Let It Ride (1989): This comedy film revolves around a day at the racetrack, where the main character, played by Richard Dreyfuss, experiences a winning streak. While it’s not specifically about the Kentucky Derby, it captures the excitement and unpredictability of horse racing.
- Luck (2011-2012): While not a movie but a TV series, “Luck” deserves a mention as it provides a detailed look into the world of horse racing, including the Kentucky Derby. The show delves into the lives of various characters involved in the racing industry and explores the highs and lows of the sport.
