top of page
DERBY 101
RULES & REGULATIONS FOR THE KENTUCKY DERBY FROM THE OFFICIAL CHURCHILL DOWNS.

Do not bring an umbrella.  Many years it has rained, and they confiscate all umbrellas at the entrance. 

 

Most Ubers, cabs, and buses will drop off almost a quarter of a mile away from actual entrance. Flip flops are widely used for walking to and from your transportation. Bring flip flops, especially if it’s raining for the puddles.

 

With the time and money we spend bedazzling hats, make sure you use a clear bag for your hat.  If your big hat gets wet, it can bleed or become heavy and uncomfortable and not wear as well.

​

Bring a rain poncho, preferably clear so your outfit shines.  During Derby weekend, they are hard to find, so plan for rain and hope you don’t have to use it.  

​

There are strict purse restrictions, so please make sure your bag is not more than 12x12.  They will make you leave it or take it back to your car or hotel.   

​

If you see something unusual please call security at 502-636-4526 to report it.

​

PROHIBITED ITEMS EFFECTIVE DERBY WEEK
(Opening Night- Derby Day)
  • Hoverboards, skateboards and scooters

  • Illegal Substances

  • Personal music players without head-phones, portable speakers/sound systems

  • Pets, except for trained service animals

  • Poles or sticks of any size

  • Projectile Items, balls, and Frisbees

  • Seat Cushions that are larger than 15" X 15" that contain metal arms and/or backs, zippers, pockets or flaps

  • Selfie Sticks

  • Thermoses

  • Tripods

  • Umbrellas of any size

  • Wagons

  • Weapons (including guns, knives, and cigar cutters)

  • Any items deemed dangerous and/or inappropriate

Notable Exceptions that are Allowed Inside the Gates
  • Baby bag & Diaper bags, if accompanied by a child (subject to search)

  • Strollers , if accompanied by a child

  • *OAKS & DERBY DAYS ONLY: Boxed lunches or food items in clear plastic bags ( no trash bags) or containers that do not exceed the maximum size (12" X 12")-limit of two bags per person

  • OAKS & DERBY DAYS ONLY: Bottled water that is in a sealed, clear and unopened plastic bottle- limit of two 24 oz. bottles per person

  • INFIELD GATE ONLY: Collapsible camping chairs  (must be removed from bag during search)

  • INFIELD GATE ONLY: Tarpaulins ("Tarps")- that are smaller than 10' X 10'.  Once inside the gate, tarps may not be secured to the infield fence or any other permanent structure.

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Backpacks, duffel bags and luggage 

  • Bags (including purses)-larger than 12" x 12" in any dimension

  • Balloons and inflatables

  • Banners and/or signs, unless pre-approved

  • Cameras with detachable lenses, or equipped with a lens that is 6” or larger

  • Canopies and tents

  • Cans (any size or type), glass bottles or containers

  • Chairs

  • Confetti

  • Coolers

  • Drones and remote controlled aircraft

  • Fireworks, noise makers, air horns, laser lights/pointers, mace or pepper spray

  • Food & Beverage*

  • Grills

FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE
bottom of page