Kentucky Derby Festival Unveils 2026 Event Lineup Celebrates Tradition

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (July 1, 2025) – Mark your calendar for next spring! The Kentucky Derby Festival is rolling out the dates of some of its signature events for the 2026 season. Festival fans can start planning ahead for their favorite Festival events.

“As each year’s Kentucky Derby Festival wraps up, planning for the next one begins,” said Matt Gibson, Kentucky Derby Festival President & CEO. “We’re releasing the schedule for some of our favorite springtime traditions earlier than ever so fans can plan ahead and join us again next spring.”

Here’s a first look at some of the dates on the 2026 Derby Festival line-up. Additional dates can be found on the Festival’s website at KDF.org:

2026 Kentucky Derby Festival ticketed events include:

Dillard’s Spring Fashion Show on Thursday, March 26

BourbonVille on Thursday, April 2

$1 Million Hole-In-One Golf Contest – Thursday, April 9 through Tuesday, April 21

The Fillies Derby Ball – Saturday, April 13

They’re Off! Luncheon – Friday, April 18

Thunder Over Louisville VIP Rooftop Party – Saturday, April 18

Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront – Thursday, April 23 through Friday, May 1

L&N Federal Credit Union Great BalloonFest – Thursday, April 23 - Saturday, April 25

GE Appliances miniMarathon & Marathon – Saturday, April 25

Pegasus Parade – Sunday, April 26

Samtec Great Bed Races – Monday, April 27

WineFest – Tuesday, April 28

Great Steamboat Race –Wednesday, April 29

Day at the Downs – Thursday, April 30

Stay tuned for more details about 2026 Derby Festival event dates. For more info, visit KDF.org.