The Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks are held annually at Churchill Downs, Louisville, Kentucky, with the Oaks on May 1, 2026, and the Derby on May 2, 2026. Official entries, live odds, and updates are available on the Kentucky Derby website. Various wagers include Win, Exacta, Trifecta, multi-race bets, and special Derby week wagers. Advance wagering opens April 28, 2026. Live coverage and full wagering menus are accessible online.
The Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks are two of the most anticipated Thoroughbred racing events held annually at Churchill Downs. This FAQ provides key information on wagering, race details, advance betting options, contenders, and where to find official updates.
Where are the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks held?
Both races take place at Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky.
When does the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks run?
- Kentucky Oaks – May 1, 2026 (the day before the Derby)
-
Kentucky Derby – May 2, 2026 (first Saturday in May).
See post times below for the full Churchill Downs race card on Friday and Saturday.
Where can I find Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks entries?
Official horse entries, post positions, and updates are available here:
- Kentucky Derby Entries & Information
https://www.kentuckyderby.com/derby-horses/ - Kentucky Oaks Entries & Information
https://www.kentuckyderby.com/oaks-horses/
Where can I view live odds?
Live and updated betting odds for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks are available here:
https://www.kentuckyderby.com/wager/live-odds/
Odds fluctuate based on wagering activity, workouts, scratches, and prep race results.
What types of wagers are available for Derby & Oaks Week?
Single Race Bets
- Win, Place, Show
- Exacta (1st & 2nd in order)
- Trifecta (1st, 2nd, 3rd in order)
- Superfecta (1st–4th in order)
Multi-Race Wagers
- Daily Double
- Pick 3
- Pick 4
- Pick 5
- Pick 6
Feature Wagers During Derby Week
- Kentucky Oaks / Kentucky Derby Double
- Oaks / Turf Classic / Derby Pick 3
- All Three-Year-Old Pick 3 (Pat Day Mile / American Turf / Kentucky Derby)
- All Stakes, All Dirt Pick 5
- Oaks Day / Derby Day Pick 6
- All Turf Pick 4 (Friday & Saturday)
- Matchup wagering
- Odd vs. Even wagering
Advance Wagering Information
Advance wagering allows bettors to place wagers on select races before race day. Availability varies by date:
Tuesday–Wednesday (4/28–4/29)
- Churchill Downs daily card wagering
- Early Kentucky Oaks wagers
- Early Kentucky Derby wagers
- Kentucky Oaks / Derby Double
- Matchups and Odd vs Even wagers
Thursday (4/30) – Expanded Wagering Menu
Includes all early wagers plus:
- Kentucky Oaks & Kentucky Derby advance wagering
- Oaks / Turf Classic / Derby Pick 3
- Three-Year-Old Pick 3
- All Stakes, All Dirt Pick 5
- Oaks Day / Derby Day Pick 6
- All Turf Pick 4 (Friday & Saturday)
- Matchups and Odd vs Even wagers
Friday (5/1 – Kentucky Oaks Day)
- Kentucky Oaks wagering (Race 13)
- Kentucky Derby advance wagering (Race 12)
- Kentucky Oaks / Derby Double
- Oaks / Turf Classic / Derby Pick 3
- Three-Year-Old Pick 3
- Pick 5, Pick 6, All Turf Pick 4
- Matchups and Odd vs Even wagers
Saturday (5/2 – Kentucky Derby Day)
- Kentucky Derby wagering (Race 12)
- Three-Year-Old Pick 3
- All Stakes, All Dirt Pick 5
- All Turf Pick 4
- Matchups and Odd vs Even wagers
What is the Kentucky Derby Future Wager?
The Kentucky Derby Future Wager allows bettors to wager on potential Derby contenders before final entries are set.
You can view full details here:
Kentucky Derby Future Wager FAQ
Where can I watch or listen to the Kentucky Derby?
Live coverage, broadcast partners, and streaming options are available here:
https://www.kentuckyderby.com/derby-at-home/watch-and-follow/
Where can I view the full wagering menu?
A complete wagering guide for Derby and Oaks Week is available here:
https://www.churchilldowns.com/come-to-the-track/visiting-information/event-information/