The Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville is the most exciting two minutes in sports — the first jewel of the Triple Crown held every May before 150,000 people in extraordinary hats, mint juleps in hand, watching the world's best three-year-old thoroughbreds thunder down the most famous stretch in horse racing. Derby Week is a full celebration of Southern tradition and sporting spectacle.
The most exciting two minutes in sports. Derby week is a full week of events. Louisville hotels book out a year ahead for Derby weekend. Hats are mandatory.