The excitement is in full gallop as the 151st Kentucky Derby takes place Saturday evening, May 3, 2025, at the historic Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky. Often referred to as "The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports," the Run for the Roses is more than just a race — it's a cultural event full of fashion, fanfare, and fierce competition.
🐎 Race Details and Payout
The official post time for the 2025 Kentucky Derby is 6:57 p.m. ET, marking the 12th race in a 14-race lineup. This year’s purse is once again a record-tying $5 million, with $3.1 million awarded to the winner and generous payouts extending to the top five finishers. This solidifies the Derby as the richest race in the Triple Crown series, according to the official Kentucky Derby website.
🎉 What to Expect on Derby Day
Beyond the big race, Derby Day is an immersive experience. Attendees and viewers can look forward to:
-
Celebrity sightings
-
Fashion statements and iconic hats
-
Food and cocktails, including the famous Mint Julep
-
Brand activations from Ford, Woodford Reserve, Longines, Vineyard Vines, and more
-
Live performances and ceremonial moments, including:
-
Simone Biles giving the traditional "Riders Up" call
-
A stirring rendition of the national anthem by Grace Potter
-
Each jockey will also sport distinctive silks, custom-designed to reflect their horse owner's identity — no two are alike.
📺 How to Watch the 2025 Kentucky Derby
You can catch all the Derby action on multiple platforms:
-
FanDuel TV: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
-
USA Network and Peacock: 12:00 p.m. – 2:20 p.m.
-
NBC and Peacock: 2:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
-
Streaming is also available via the NBC Sports app and NBCSports.com
🧢 Fashion, Food & More
The Courier Journal will have teams covering every angle — from the high-stakes races to celebrity arrivals, fashion highlights, and on-site culinary delights. Expect comprehensive live updates throughout the day, whether you're tuning in from home or lucky enough to be at the track.
Don’t forget to download the 2025 Kentucky Derby Betting Guide and visit the Kentucky Derby HQ for the latest updates on odds, expert picks, trends, and traditions.