LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The countdown is on to the 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival, with more than 70 events leading up to the 152nd Run for the Roses.
What You Need To Know
- The 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival features more than 70 events before Derby 152
- Among the new highlights include a water lantern festival, a senior Derby party and a themed afternoon tea
- Derby 152 is Saturday, May 2
In addition to numerous longtime favorites, several new additions join this year’s lineup. From lanterns to tea, first-time events include the following:
- High-energy entertainment will take over Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront when the Ringling Circus Hype Crew makes its Derby Festival debut there. The group will perform multiple times daily April 23-25 on the Ringling Circus Party Lawn (Great Lawn). Attendees can expect action-packed fun for all ages. Admission to the performances at Fest-a-Ville is free with a 2026 Pegasus Pin; visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or older.
- Thousands of lanterns will glow along the Ohio River at the Water Lantern Festival on April 29 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Fest-a-Ville. KDF said guests can personalize and release their lanterns at sunset, creating a stunning display of light and reflection. More information and tickets are available online.
- Older adults who might not get to enjoy Derby festivities can take in the Kentucky Derby Festival Senior Party on Thursday, April 16, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Slugger Field. Guests can enjoy a fun-filled afternoon featuring a DJ, plated lunch, virtual horse racing, a “best hat” contest and door prizes every 15 minutes, KDF said. Tickets are $5 per person and must be purchased in advance; they are available online.
- Lousiville City FC will host Sporting Club Jacksonville on Saturday, April 18, at Lynn Family Stadium in the Kentucky Derby Festival Official Soccer Match. Kickoff is 5 p.m., giving fans plenty of time to enjoy the match and the Thunder Over Louisville fireworks show that evening. Check out the team’s website for more info and tickets.
- Enjoy an English afternoon tea at the Kentucky Derby Festival Afternoon Tea on Sunday, April 19, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Crystal Ballroom at the Brown Hotel. Guests can enjoy tea sandwiches, savory bites and sweets, along with a collection of premium loose-leaf teas. There’ll even be a tea etiquette lesson and a special guest appearance. Email [email protected] or call 502-381-9023 for tickets and more information; KDF said proceeds support addiction recovery programs.
The 2026 Derby Festival kicks off April 18, with Thunder Over Louisville. Derby 152 is Saturday, May 2…