Kentucky Derby Week featured a historic-themed event at Churchill Downs, showcasing Kentucky icons and encouraging vintage attire. The event was a collaboration with the Frazier Kentucky History Museum.
Key points
Kentucky Derby Week featured a historic-themed event at Churchill Downs
Collaboration with Frazier Kentucky History Museum
Attendees encouraged to wear vintage attire
Kentucky icons like Col. Harland Sanders and Muhammad Ali present
Interactive spotlights and unique attractions enhanced the experience
Mentioned in this story
Churchill DownsFrazier Kentucky History MuseumCol. Harland SandersMuhammad AliActors Theatre of Louisville
Kentucky was front and center Thursday at Churchill Downs for the third biggest day of racing of Kentucky Derby Week.
For the second consecutive year, Churchill Downs partnered with Frazier Kentucky History Museum to overlay the historic Louisville racetrack with interactive spotlights on state's history.
Racegoers might have spotted Kentucky icons such as Col. Harland Sanders or Muhammad Ali — and even a walking disco ball — roaming around the race track, with Actors Theatre of Louisville lending its talents to the day's festivities.
Leaning into the history theme, track goers were invited to wear their best vintage looks.
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Q&A
What historic themes were featured during Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs?
The event highlighted Kentucky's history with interactive spotlights and encouraged attendees to wear vintage attire.
Which Kentucky icons were present at the Churchill Downs event?
Racegoers could spot icons like Col. Harland Sanders and Muhammad Ali during the festivities.
How did Churchill Downs collaborate with local organizations for the event?
Churchill Downs partnered with the Frazier Kentucky History Museum and Actors Theatre of Louisville to enhance the event's historical flair.
What unique attractions were part of the Kentucky Derby Week celebrations?
The event included interactive spotlights, historical figures, and even a walking disco ball to entertain attendees.
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Zoe Gwozdz and Steve Miller during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Katrina and Adolph Thompkins during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Maria, Dan, and Nora Nedvidek during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Javier and Leslie Rodriguez during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Jason Engleman, Jimmy Lewis, Windy Engleman, and Denise Lewis during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Melanie And John Jones, Joyce And Rodney Wood, and Kathy Dutton during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Heidi Wilson, Lissa Capuson, April, Bliz, Nanci Hoolihan, and Diane Thomas during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Steve and Nancy Bailey during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Cheryl and Jay Dortch during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Judge Shannon Meyer and Amy Clay during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Cliff Hartman, Mike Hooligan, Marcus West, and Dana Wilson during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Katherine Metcalf and Autumn Enzweiler during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Michele and Steve Kelien during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Kathy Brohm, Maxann Newby, Teresa Goodin, and Margy Stivers during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Von Purdy, Rick Purdy, and Seema Sheth during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Rob King and Megan King during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
1 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
1 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
2 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
3 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
4 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Zoe Gwozdz and Steve Miller during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
5 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Katrina and Adolph Thompkins during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
6 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Maria, Dan, and Nora Nedvidek during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
7 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Javier and Leslie Rodriguez during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
8 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Jason Engleman, Jimmy Lewis, Windy Engleman, and Denise Lewis during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
9 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Melanie And John Jones, Joyce And Rodney Wood, and Kathy Dutton during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
10 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Heidi Wilson, Lissa Capuson, April, Bliz, Nanci Hoolihan, and Diane Thomas during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
11 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Steve and Nancy Bailey during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
12 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Cheryl and Jay Dortch during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
13 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Judge Shannon Meyer and Amy Clay during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
14 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Cliff Hartman, Mike Hooligan, Marcus West, and Dana Wilson during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
15 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Katherine Metcalf and Autumn Enzweiler during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
16 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Michele and Steve Kelien during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
17 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
18 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Kathy Brohm, Maxann Newby, Teresa Goodin, and Margy Stivers during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
19 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Von Purdy, Rick Purdy, and Seema Sheth during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
20 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Rob King and Megan King during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
21 / 21
Kentucky Derby 2026 fashion was bold, head-turning and chic. See photos
Fashion during Thurby at Churchill Downs during 152nd Kentucky Derby, Louisville, KY. April 30, 2026 (by Frankie Steele/Special to Courier Journal)
Lynette Davis, a lifelong Floridian from St. Petersburg, wore a floral jumpsuit and emerald fur coat, accessorized with silky white gloves and pearl jewelry.
She had such a memorable experience last year on Opening Night during her first visit to Churchill Downs that she decided the historic racetrack would be the backdrop for her 54th birthday.
“Wheels down an hour and a half ago, and I fly back out tonight,” she said April 30, overlooking the Paddock. "It's just a phenomenal experience. Unmatched. There's nothing else like it.”
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
The Thursday before the Kentucky Derby was officially dubbed Thurby in 2014, and has grown to be a more affordable, less crowded day for locals to enjoy the racetrack.
Jessica Carney and her friends, Louisville natives, have been coming to the race track for years, recalling memories of prom celebrations past.
“It used to be Oaks,” Carney said of her friend group's traditional day to visit the track. “But when they started pushing locals out of Oaks, we decided Thurby was our day.”
Malik Baines dresses as Muhammad Ali on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
Leah Welman-Fritsche came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
Sheila Mujagic, left and Gretchen Weir arrive for a day of racing on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
Ben Bocklund came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
Malik Baines, dressed as Muhammad Ali, poses for photos on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
People got their picture taken for Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
Jessica Burgin came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
Malik Baines, aka Muhammad Ali, got his picture taken with Mae Newsome on Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
Olivia McKain came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
Joshua Raish came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
Justin and Samantha Elder came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
Malik Baines, aka Muhammad Ali, got his picture taken on Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
Tom Morton, aka Colonial Saunders, got his picture taken with people on Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
Martha Morales took her picture on Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
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Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Malik Baines dresses as Muhammad Ali on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
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Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Malik Baines dresses as Muhammad Ali on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
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Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Leah Welman-Fritsche came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
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Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Sheila Mujagic, left and Gretchen Weir arrive for a day of racing on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
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Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Ben Bocklund came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
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Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Malik Baines, dressed as Muhammad Ali, poses for photos on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
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Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
People got their picture taken for Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
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Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Jessica Burgin came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
8 / 14
Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Malik Baines, aka Muhammad Ali, got his picture taken with Mae Newsome on Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
9 / 14
Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Olivia McKain came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
10 / 14
Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Joshua Raish came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
11 / 14
Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Justin and Samantha Elder came out to Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
12 / 14
Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Malik Baines, aka Muhammad Ali, got his picture taken on Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
13 / 14
Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Tom Morton, aka Colonial Saunders, got his picture taken with people on Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
14 / 14
Happy Thurby! See all the fashion, fans and racing at Churchill Downs
Martha Morales took her picture on Thurby at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby week.
April 30, 2026
And while Churchill Downs has worked to build out its Derby week offerings, adding more days earlier in the week for locals to enjoy, for longtime Kentucky Derby Week attendees and born and bred Louisvillians, Thurby still holds its local charm.
Jay Hogan and his wife, Jackie Hogan, have been coming to Derby for nearly 50 years. The Louisville natives have watched races from down in the infield to the balcony of Millionaires Row and have taken to the track on various days of Derby week, but now they’re loyal Thurbygoers.
“Our social director demands us to come on Thurby,” Jay Hogan said, gesturing to his wife.
The pair, along with friends Randy and Anne Ewing, have been Thurby attendees over the last few years and have noticed shifts in attendance over the decades, along with rising costs.
“You can just look around and see all the money they’ve spent to make it such an experience for people who’ve never had it before, but it’s just kind of priced some of us out,” Randy Ewing said.
Thurby has grown over the years, from drawing about 27,000 people in 2014 to seeing more than 53,000 attendees last year (about half of Oaks and a third of Derby day crowds).
Thurby’s relative lower attendance is a draw from some locals, including Meg Czerwonka, who was at Thurby and planned to be at Oaks on Friday with friends and family.
“I think that they’re the best days just because they’re a little bit less crowded,” Czerwonka said. “It’s cool to see everything, show people everything, and you still get the same great fashion.”
Although Czerwonka and her family are from Louisville, two of her friends, Kristen Miller and Nicolas Wackerbeck, flew from Berlin, Germany, to attend Thurby and Oaks. While they said Germany is no stranger to horse racing, the fashion is unique to the Kentucky Derby.
But the two were well prepared, thanks to Czerwonka, who handmade their hats for both days.
Ashlyn Roberts enjoys a mint julep on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
Amber Kuntz poses for a photo on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Ashlyn Roberts enjoys a mint julep on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
1 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Ashlyn Roberts enjoys a mint julep on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
2 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Amber Kuntz poses for a photo on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on April 30, 2026.
3 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
4 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
5 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
6 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
7 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
8 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
9 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
10 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
11 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
12 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
13 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
14 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
15 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
16 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
17 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
18 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
19 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
20 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
21 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
23 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
24 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
25 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
26 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
27 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
28 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
29 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
30 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
31 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
32 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
33 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
34 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
35 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
48 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
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See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
51 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
52 / 52
See the best 2026 Kentucky Derby hats, fascinators inside Churchill Downs
Fans arrive at Churchill Downs on Thurby during Kentucky Derby week. April 30, 2026
Guests on Thursday were met with sunny skies for an afternoon slate of 12 races. Davis, celebrating her birthday, said she was grateful for the beautiful day and an excuse to wear her finest.
“Louisville’s got great hospitality,” she said. "You see all kinds of people ages, and it's just so warm to be here."
Gates are set to open for the 152nd Kentucky Oaks on Friday at 11 a.m. Racing stretches from race one's 12:30 p.m. post time until the last race of the day, the now-in-primetime Kentucky Oaks race at 8:40 p.m. Mostly sunny skies are forecast with a high near 64.
