Umbrellas are not allowed at Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby. Attendees should be aware of other prohibited items before arriving.
Key points
Umbrellas are not allowed at Churchill Downs.
Kentucky Oaks Day is on May 1, 2024.
Churchill Downs is located in Louisville, Kentucky.
Other prohibited items exist for security reasons.
Mentioned in this story
Churchill DownsLouisville
It's probably going to rain on Kentucky Oaks Day, held this year on May 1. But if you're headed to Churchill Downs ― don't pack an umbrella.
Churchill Downs, 700 Central Ave., Louisville, Ky., doesn't allow them inside the storied track where the Kentucky Oaks and Derby runs each year.
In fact, there are quite a few things that track security won't let you bring through the gate.
Before heading to Churchill Downs for Kentucky Derby Week, here's a quick primer on what items you can and cannot bring with you.
Can I bring an umbrella to Churchill Downs?
No. Umbrellas are prohibited at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby Week as they block other guests’ views.
People show up for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
Dee Johnson and Barry Brewer walk in for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
Trae Spina shows up for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
Q&A
What items are prohibited at Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby?
Churchill Downs prohibits several items, including umbrellas, for security reasons during the Kentucky Derby.
When is Kentucky Oaks Day in 2024?
Kentucky Oaks Day is scheduled for May 1, 2024.
Where is Churchill Downs located?
Churchill Downs is located at 700 Central Ave., Louisville, Kentucky.
Can I bring a raincoat to Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby?
Yes, while umbrellas are not allowed, you can bring a raincoat to Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby.
Related Articles
Sports
Chief Wallabee profile: 2026 Kentucky Derby odds, post position, history and more to know
CBS Sports Headlines·
Sports
Godon sorprende a Pogacar en el prólogo de Romandía
Marca·
Sports
Silent Tactic profile: 2026 Kentucky Derby odds, post position, history and more to know
CBS Sports Headlines·
Sports
Why Ex-Red Sox Manager Alex Cora Quickly Turned Down Phillies Job
After being fired, Alex Cora quickly declines the Phillies job offer.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
NBA
Pistons' Jalen Duren Might Be Costing Himself Millions In The 2026 NBA Playoffs
Jalen Duren's performance in the playoffs could cost him millions in contract negotiations.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports·Feature
Cooper 'hungry for more' at 2026 North West 200
Richard Cooper, a seven-time North West 200 winner, is eager for more success in the 2026 race.
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.
Carrie Biloti, left, Jessica Morse, center, and Jerri Sly visit the Pink Snails for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
Charlie and Michele Harlow get their picture taken for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
Chris Martin walks in for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
The Pink Snails were in attendance for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
Michelle Winningham gets her picture made for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
Charlie walks in for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
Jackie and Elliot Outlaw walk in for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
People show up for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
1 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
People show up for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
1 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
People show up for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
2 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
Dee Johnson and Barry Brewer walk in for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
3 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
Trae Spina shows up for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
4 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
Carrie Biloti, left, Jessica Morse, center, and Jerri Sly visit the Pink Snails for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
5 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
Charlie and Michele Harlow get their picture taken for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
6 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
Chris Martin walks in for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
7 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
The Pink Snails were in attendance for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
8 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
Michelle Winningham gets her picture made for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
9 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
Charlie walks in for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
10 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
Jackie and Elliot Outlaw walk in for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
11 / 11
Opening Day photos at Churchill Downs, start of Kentucky Derby Week
People show up for the first day of horse racing on opening day of the Spring Meet ahead of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Apr. 25, 2026.
What is the purse and bag policy at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby?
Each guest at the Kentucky Derby is permitted to bring one bag no larger than 12-inches-by-6-inches-by-12-inches or a small clutch that is smaller than 6.5-inches-by-4.5 inches. Baby and diaper bags are allowed if guests have a child with them.
Prohibited items at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby Week
Here are a list of items that are prohibited at Churchill Downs, according to the Kentucky Derby website:
Alcoholic beverages
Backpacks, duffel bags and luggage
Bags larger than 12-inches-by-6-inches-by-12-inches
Balloons and inflatables
Banners and/or signs, unless pre-approved
Cameras with detachable lenses or equipped with a lens that is 6 inches or larger
Canopies and tents
Cans (any size or type), glass bottles or containers
Collapsible chairs, including those without canopies (collapsible chairs without canopies are allowed in the infield)
Confetti
Coolers
Chains
Drones and remote-controlled aircraft
Fireworks, noisemakers, air horns and laser lights/pointers
Food and beverages (see above)
Grills
Hoverboards, skateboards and scooters
Illegal substances
Personal music players without headphones and portable speakers/sound systems
Pets, except for trained service animals
Poles or sticks of any size
Projectile items, balls and frisbees
Seat cushions that are larger than 15-inches-by-15-inches and contain metal arms and/or backs, zippers, pockets or flaps
Selfie sticks
Thermoses
Tripods
Umbrellas of any size
Wagons
Weapons of any kind, including firearms, knives, mace, pepper spray
Any items deemed dangerous and/or inappropriate
What to bring to Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby Week
Here's what you can bring if you're heading to Churchill Downs for Kentucky Derby Week:
A hat. Whether it’s more structured or has feathers and florals, hats are part of the tradition. You can also wear a fascinator.
Sunscreen or a lightweight, clear rain poncho, depending on the forecast. The Kentucky Derby is held rain or shine, so dress for the weather.
Consider bringing a pair of comfortable shoes or flip-flops to change into during the long day.
Binoculars
Hand sanitizer
In the infield gate, boxed lunches and food items are allowed in the guest's bag or one-gallon clear Ziploc-style bag (no trash bags). Guests are limited to one bag each. Bottled water in a sealed, clear, unopened plastic bottle is also allowed. There is a limit of two 24-ounce bottles per person.
A picnic blanket that is smaller than 10-feet-by-10-feet, but only in the infield.
A seat cushion that is smaller than 15-inches-by-15-inches and does not contain metal arms and/or backs, zippers, pockets or flaps.
