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The Kentucky Oaks gallops into action every year on the Friday before the Kentucky Derby. This iconic race, dedicated exclusively to three-year-old fillies, is a spectacle of speed, fashion, and tradition. Don your finest hat, sip an Oaks Lily, and cheer on the champions at Churchill Downs!
Want to sponsor Kentucky Oaks? Learn how
Expected Kentucky Oaks Deals
As the Kentucky Oaks approaches, expect a flurry of promotions from brands celebrating the ‘Lilies for the Fillies’ spirit. Major retailers like Lilly Pulitzer and Vineyard Vines often roll out special collections or discounts on race-day attire. Louisville-area restaurants and bars will feature themed cocktails like the ‘Oaks Lily’ and special menus. Betting platforms such as TwinSpires will likely offer sign-up bonuses or enhanced odds for the big race. Keep an eye on official sponsors like Longines and Stella Artois for unique activations or giveaways. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as May 1 approaches.
Platform Guide for Kentucky Oaks
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #KentuckyOaks. Share your race-day fashion, ‘Oaks Lily’ cocktails, and favorite fillies.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #KentuckyOaks. Film your hat reveal, pre-race party, or a quick tutorial on Oaks fashion.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #KentuckyOaks. Share real-time race reactions, betting tips, and favorite moments from Churchill Downs.
Kentucky Oaks Hero
Lewis Clark, Jr.
History of Kentucky Oaks
The first Kentucky Oaks race was held on May 19, 1875, when Churchill Downs was still known as the Louisville Jockey Club. The event was coordinated by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., who also oversaw the organization of the Kentucky Derby, the Clark Handicap, and the Falls City Handicap. Two of the oldest sports competitions still held in the United States are The Kentucky Oaks and The Derby. The British Epsom Oaks, which has been run annually in Epsom, Surrey, since 1779, served as the model for the Kentucky Oaks. A horse named Vinaigrette won the very first race, earning $1,175 in prize money, and since then, the Kentucky Oaks has been held annually.
Some consider Kentucky Oaks to be one of the most popular horse races in the United States. In 1980, the race attracted over 50,000 attendees. To honor the winner of the Kentucky Oaks race, Lemon & Son, Inc. commissioned Redlich & Co. of New York City to design a trophy cup. The trophy is typically made of sterling silver and is 25 inches tall with horse-head grips on both sides and an intricate silver horseshoe on top.
The winner’s name is etched on the trophy each year. Churchill Downs etched all winners before the 1924 event on the trophy in 1955. Princess Doreen was the first winner to have her name inscribed on the trophy, which was awarded in 1924. The first ceremonial presentation was attended by her owner Harry Stutts, trainer S. Miller Henderson, and a breeder from the Audley Farm Stable.
Kentucky Oaks timeline
Kentucky Oaks is inspired by the British Epsom Oaks.
The first Kentucky Oak horse race is run on May 19.
Redlich & Co. of New York City is given a commission by Lemon & Son, Inc. to create a trophy cup to honor the winner of the Kentucky Oaks race.
Approximately 50,000 people attend the race.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Kentucky Oaks
Local Louisville businesses can capitalize on the Kentucky Oaks by offering themed promotions and experiences. Restaurants might create special ‘Oaks Lily’ cocktail menus and pink-themed desserts. Boutiques could host ‘Oaks Hat’ fashion contests or offer discounts on race-day attire. Hotels can provide special packages that include tickets to the race and related events, catering to both locals and out-of-town visitors looking to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere.
Kentucky Oaks FAQs
When is Kentucky Oaks?
Kentucky Oaks 2026 takes place on Friday, May 1, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. It’s an exciting day of racing and celebration for three-year-old fillies.
How much is the Kentucky Oaks purse?
The Kentucky Oaks boasts a substantial purse of $1.5 million, making it one of the richest races for fillies in North America. This significant prize attracts top contenders from across the country.
How many fillies compete in the Kentucky Oaks?
The Kentucky Oaks typically features a field of 14 three-year-old fillies, all vying for the coveted garland of lilies. This competitive lineup ensures an exhilarating race for fans.
What is the official drink of the Kentucky Oaks?
The official drink of the Kentucky Oaks is the ‘Oaks Lily,’ a refreshing cocktail made with vodka, cranberry juice, sweet and sour mix, and a splash of triple sec. It’s traditionally served in a custom glass with a pink hue.
Kentucky Oaks Activities
Purchase your tickets
Get your tickets to the Kentucky Oaks horse race this year. You can visit the ticket master to make your purchase. Be sure to do this early as tickets sell out quickly.
Share via your socials
You don't have to be in Kentucky to join in the celebration. You can watch videos online or share pictures from the race track and upload it to social media and add the hashtag #Kentuckyoaks.
Read on the history of Kentucky Oaks
Join in the celebration by reading up on the origin of Kentucky Oaks. Educate yourself on its history, bidding, horse racing, and race track etiquette.
5 Interesting Facts About Kentucky Oaks
Pink is the color of the day
Churchill Downs will be decked out in pink in honor of Kentucky Oaks Day, dedicated to finding a cure for breast and ovarian cancer.
Kentucky cocktail
Kentucky Oaks has its own official cocktail.
First female winner
The first female jockey to win a Kentucky Oaks horse race is Rosie Napravnik.
100,000 spectators annually
Since the 127th running of the Kentucky Oaks in 2001, the race has drawn around 100,000 spectators each year.
Lillies for the fillies
The winner receives $750,000 and a big lily garland blanket, earning the nickname Lillies for the Fillies.
Why We Love Kentucky Oaks
It is a social event
Attending a horse racing event is a terrific opportunity to meet new people. You get to dress up which can make the occasion even more enjoyable. It is family-friendly, with all races and all ages events.
It's full of excitement
The thrill of being on the grounds of a race track is like no other. You're practically at the edge of your seat when the horses speed down the last stretch of the race track. The excitement in the crowd is palpable during this time.
It raises awareness about cancer
Kentucky Oaks raises awareness about breast and ovarian cancer. On the day of the event, attendees wear the color pink in honor of cancer patients.
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