There is nothing on the sporting calendar like the Kentucky Derby. It one of the few occasions where world class sport clashes with high-end fashion, resulting in a social event that is must-attend annually.
For those attending the race day in 2026, their outfits will likely already be finalized, with the attention soon turning to the racing itself, and attempting to pick out a few winners. Therefore, a Derby hub page such as this one could be vitally important to get all the information that you require: https://www.twinspires.com/edge/racing/kentucky-derby/
But, what is the history of the Kentucky Derby, and what are some of the iconic traditions that have remained as important in this modern day as they have ever been?
Early History
The Kentucky Derby is the oldest continuously run race in the United States, with the first edition dating back to 1875. The original idea for the event was the brainchild of Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr, who was inspired after travelling to watch horse racing at Epsom in the United Kingdom.
Plans to form a Jockey Club in Louisville were accelerated soon after. The inaugural race was staged in 1875, covers a distance of 1 ½ miles, before being reduced for the following event.
Black jockeys, including Oliver Lewis, who landed success in the first edition aboard Aristides, dominated the early history of the Derby. This early history would shape the sport for years to come, with the practices used by black people in the ante-bellum slave-holding states laying the groundwork for future racing standards.
Derby Day Traditions
While the race itself is the most famous part of the Kentucky Derby, there are a number of traditions that have become household names in their own regard. Among those include the mint julep, which is an ice drink including bourbon, sugar and mint, which is traditional in Southern America. A traditional dish on Derby Day is a burgoo, which is a thick stew of beef, chicken and vegetables.
One of the most famous traditions is the picturesque moment after the race when the winner is covered in 554 red roses. The term ‘Run for the Roses’ was first used by Bill Corum in 1925.
However, the tradition dates back further than that, as roses were first awarded to ladies in attendance by E. Berry Wall at Churchill Downs in 1883. But, it wasn’t until 1896 when the winner of the Kentucky Derby was draped in roses for the first time.
Pre-Race Festivities
As the excitement of the Kentucky Derby draws closer on the first Saturday in May, there are traditional festivities that must be completed. Among those is a rendition of ‘My Old Kentucky Home’ by the University of Louisville Cardinal Marching Band, which is played as the runners go to post.
This long standing tradition was first in operation in 1921, and it remains a key moment of the Derby experience before the race gets underway.
Another key tradition when business is about to pick up comes 20 minutes before the start of the Derby, as the ‘Riders Up’ call is given by the Grand Marshal. This has led to celebrity inclusion in recent history, with a number of famous names making the call. That was the case once again in 2025, as Olympic champion Simone Biles gave the call.
Fashionable Event
The history of fashion at the Derby dates back from the first edition of the race, with Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr indicated that he wanted to create an event that matched the European-style high-end style. Therefore, he encouraged visitors to attend in their ‘Sunday Best’.
One of the notable trends was born in the 20th century, where hats became a more focal part of outfits. During this time, large and flamboyant headwear would become prominent, encouraging visitors to stand out from the crowd. Southerners didn’t need much of a reason to wear hats, as it is also considered good luck, which is always welcomed on Derby Day at Churchill Downs.
However, as is the case with fashion, there has been changes to trends throughout history, and each of them have been visible at the Kentucky Derby. That ranges from conservative clothing throughout early history to the popular flapper dresses throughout the 1920s.
Modern day race day style is more unpredictable, with each visitors encouraged to be as creative as they wish with their outfits. Therefore, there has been a rise in bright coloured outfits in modern years, with both male and female visitors typically wearing shades of yellow and blue. Hats have also remained popular, but fascinators have been the rising trend.
This style of headwear has grown in prominence, as they allow female visitors to become more creative with their designs. The lucrative Best Dressed prizes at Churchill Downs still encourage visitors to come in their Sunday Best.
