They're Off! Luncheon
April 17, 2026
11:30 AM
— 1:00 PM
Galt House East, Grand Ballroom
140 N. Fourth St. Louisville, KY 40202
The official corporate kick-off of the 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival – the They're Off!® Luncheon – is set for Friday, April 17, 2026.
More than 1,500 Derby Festival supporters and patrons are expected to be in attendance for this community tradition luncheon, which will be held in the Grand Ballroom of The Galt House Hotel, site of the festive event since 1974. Over the years, notable speakers have included Pat Kelsey, Magic Johnson, Erin Andrews, Sam Champion, Robin Roberts and Terry Bradshaw as well as many others in a long list of luminaries who have entertained They're Off!® Luncheon audiences for the past 68 years.
Highlights include:
- Cash bar reception prior to doors opening
- Reserved Seating with Lunch
- Remarks by dignitaries and a Special Guest Speaker
- Event pin
