Derby in December returns December 10 with free community celebration
Donna Barton Brothers, Derby 153 previews and giveaways among event’s highlights
LOUISVILLE, KY. (November 2, 2026) — Churchill Downs, Kentucky Derby Festival, and Kentucky Derby Museum are once again coming together to invite the community to celebrate all things Derby during Derby in December presented by Kroger, Thursday, December 10, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the museum will be free all day, with special programming, activities, giveaways, and prize opportunities for guests.
The day will begin with a press event at 10 a.m. featuring former jockey and recently retired racing analyst Donna Barton Brothers, who will help unveil the museum’s new Curator’s Corner. The first-floor space will feature rotating displays of unique and timely artifacts, launching with a suit Barton Brothers wore while reporting for NBC Sports at Churchill Downs.
At 10:30 a.m., guests can enjoy a live taping of The Best Bet Podcast, hosted by Claudia Coffey, featuring Barton Brothers in a conversation about her career, the pivotal decisions that shaped her journey, and the bets she’s made on herself, followed by an audience Q&A. The episode will later be released on major podcast platforms.
“It’s quite an honor to have one of my Derby outfits join the Kentucky Derby memorabilia collection at the Derby Museum,” said Donna Barton Brothers. “I have visited the museum frequently for 30 years or more, and looking at the outfits of iconic figures has always made me feel a little closer to that person, that moment in time. I hope people will feel the same way when they look at my outfit. I hope they can imagine what it must be like to be on a horse on the track during the Run for the Roses, then ride alongside the winning jockey immediately after the race. Welcome to the best seat in the house.”
The celebration will also offer guests a first look at the Kentucky Derby Festival's 2027 Pegasus Pin design and a chance to view the original Kentucky Derby 153 and Kentucky Oaks 153 artwork up close. Both experiences offer a preview of the creativity and excitement building toward next spring.
This year also marks a new chapter for Derby in December, as Kroger joins the three Derby partners for the first time as presenting sponsor, helping make the free community celebration possible.
“Kroger is thrilled to help bring Derby in December to life for the Louisville community,” said Brandie Ryan, Customer Communications Manager for The Kroger Co. Louisville Division. “By helping provide free admission to the Kentucky Derby Museum, we’re able to give more families the opportunity to experience the traditions that make Louisville so special. We’re proud to join the Derby partners in creating a celebration that is open and welcoming to everyone.”
DERBY IN DECEMBER PROGRAMMING
Following a historic Derby 152 that saw the first female trainer win the Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve, this year's event on December 10 will spotlight the women whose stories and contributions have shaped the race's past and present. Throughout the day, guests can explore those stories using a new digital museum map, while special programming and activities from all the Derby partners offer a first glimpse of what's ahead for Derby 153.
Churchill Downs
Receive a FREE Kentucky Derby notepad featuring the Official Artist of the 153rd Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. (While supplies last)
Enter for a chance to win one of four Golden Tempo replica saddle towels.
Kentucky Derby Festival
Be among the first to see the 2027 Pegasus Pin design and receive a FREE 2027 Metal Pegasus Pin. (While supplies last)
Secure your 2027 Derby Festival event tickets ahead of the season.
See the Royal Court robe and crown, meet the Festival mascot, and step inside a real hot-air balloon gondola.
Enjoy Derby Festival photo opportunities and giveaways.
Kentucky Derby Museum
FREE Clayton & Crume Derby-themed gifts, breakfast bites, and prize opportunities. (While supplies last)
Attend a special unveiling of the new Curator’s Corner with Donna Barton Brothers.
Participate in a live taping of The Best Bet Podcast with Claudia Coffey and Donna Barton Brothers.
Self-guided exploration highlighting women's stories throughout the museum.
Derby in December has become an annual opportunity for the organizations behind Louisville's most celebrated Derby traditions to give back to the community. Whether guests are longtime racing fans, families looking for a free day of fun, or locals looking to reconnect with the Derby spirit, the event offers a chance to experience what makes Derby special months before the first Saturday in May.
Derby in December presented by Kroger runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, December 10, at Kentucky Derby Museum. Admission is FREE all day.
For more information: https://www.derbymuseum.org/visit/experiences/derby-in-december