Churchill Downs Incorporated has unveiled exciting updates for the upcoming Kentucky Derby. The 152nd Spring Meet at the iconic Churchill Downs Racetrack will take place over nine weeks, commencing on April 25 and concluding on June 28, featuring 44 racing days. The Derby Week festivities will also run from April 25 to May 2.

The 152nd Spring Meet and Kentucky Derby Week will officially commence on April 25 with a host of Opening Day activities, including the highly anticipated post-position draws for the prestigious Kentucky Oaks and Derby races.

On April 26, for the first time since 2010, there will be racing on a Sunday of Derby Week. Dubbed Sunday Funday, this day will offer brunch selections around the track for attendees to enjoy.

On April 27, spectators can witness the training sessions of Kentucky Derby and Oaks contenders during Dawn at the Downs, accompanied by a delightful buffet breakfast in the Stakes Room or Millionaires Row.

April 28 will celebrate Louisville’s local spirit with 502’sDay, followed by Winsday the next day, which will highlight CDI’s commitment to the Community Foundation of Louisville and various local nonprofits. On April 30, Thurby will offer a vibrant celebration of Kentucky’s rich traditions, featuring premier racing and exquisite hospitality.

The 152nd Kentucky Oaks will take place on May 1, marking a historic first for the event during primetime hours between 8 and 9 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. The Oaks will showcase the best 3-year-old fillies in thoroughbred racing, boasting a purse of $1.5 million. The event will incorporate elements of tradition and advocacy for women’s health, with a focus on fashion.

The pinnacle of the Spring Meet, the 152nd Kentucky Derby, is set for Saturday, May 2. As the initial leg of horse racing’s renowned Triple Crown series, this event features a challenging 1 ¼-mile race for the leading 3-year-old Thoroughbreds, with a staggering purse of $5 million on the line. Fans can catch the action live on NBC and Peacock.

“We are excited about the upcoming week of exhilarating racing activities culminating in the 152nd Kentucky Derby on May 2nd,” stated Bill Carstanjen, CEO of CDI. “With the Spring Meet and Kentucky Derby Week beginning on Saturday afternoon and Sunday racing returning for the first time in 16 years, we are set to deliver an unforgettable week of thrills for our guests and those tuning in on NBC.”