Derby in December

Presented by Kroger

Kick off Derby season at Derby in December presented by Kroger, a free community celebration hosted in partnership with the Kentucky Derby Festival and Churchill Downs.

Join us on December 10 for a full day of Derby-inspired fun, including live entertainment, family-friendly activities, photo opportunities, prize giveaways, and more. Admission is FREE all day.

Don Your Derby Hats, Fascinators & Join the Party

December 10, 2026
9:00am - 5:00pm

Event Highlights Include:

• Attend a special unveiling of the new Curator’s Corner with Donna Barton Brothers at 10:00 am.

• Participate in a live taping of The Best Bet Podcast with Claudia Coffey and Donna Barton Brothers at 10:30 am.

• Self-guided exploration highlighting women's stories throughout the museum.

• KDM featured milliners will be on-site from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm with beautiful hats available for purchase.

• FREE Clayton & Crume Derby-themed gifts, breakfast bites, and prize opportunities. (While supplies last)

• View the original Kentucky Derby 153 and Kentucky Oaks 153 artwork up close.

• Enter for a chance to win one of four Golden Tempo replica saddle towels.

• 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.