The Kentucky Derby is a famous thoroughbred horse race that takes place annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky, USA. The race is the first leg of the American Triple Crown of horse racing, which also includes the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. The week leading up to the Kentucky Derby is known as “Derby Week,” and each day has its own name and tradition. Here is a breakdown of each day:
- Monday – “Opening Day”: This day marks the official start of Derby Week. It’s a day for racing fans to get excited about the upcoming events and start planning their week.
- Tuesday – “Jockey’s Day” or “Taste of Derby”: Jockey’s Day is a day to celebrate the jockeys who will be racing in the Derby. The Taste of Derby is an event that features food from some of the top chefs in the region.
- Wednesday – “Wine and Cheese”: This day is all about elegance and sophistication. Churchill Downs hosts a wine and cheese event, and attendees dress in their best attire.
- Thursday – “Thurby” or “Pecan Day”: Thurby is a newer tradition that combines the words “Thursday” and “Derby.” It’s a day for locals to come out and enjoy the races before the crowds arrive for the weekend. Pecan Day is a tradition that dates back to the early 1900s. It was originally a day for women to attend the races and receive a complimentary box of chocolate-covered pecans.
- Friday – “Kentucky Oaks Day”: This is a day for the fillies (female horses) to shine. The Kentucky Oaks is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-old fillies and is the second biggest race of the week.
- Saturday – “Kentucky Derby Day”: This is the big day and the reason for all the excitement. The Kentucky Derby is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-old thoroughbreds, and it’s one of the most prestigious horse races in the world.
Each day of Derby Week has its own unique tradition and significance, and together they make up an exciting and memorable experience for racing fans and enthusiasts.
Note: The names of the days during Kentucky Derby Week may change from year to year. For example, in 2023, Tuesday may be referred to as “502 Days” in honor of the area code for Louisville, and Wednesday may be called “Champions Day.”