Planning to attend the thrilling Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs? Ensuring a fantastic experience means more than just picking your winning horse. It’s also about being prepared for entry and knowing the security protocols. While everyone is eager to know What Time Is The Kentucky Derby race itself, understanding the event’s guidelines is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable day. This guide provides essential security information for Kentucky Derby week at Churchill Downs.
Navigating Security Checks at Churchill Downs
To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests, Churchill Downs implements thorough security measures. Be prepared for metal detector scans at all gates throughout Derby Week, starting from Opening Night right through Derby Day. Especially on Oaks and Derby days, it’s highly recommended to arrive early. This will allow ample time to navigate the security procedures at the admission gates and avoid missing any of the pre-race excitement.
Alt text: Racegoers passing through security checkpoints at Churchill Downs, entering the Kentucky Derby.
Remember, once you enter Churchill Downs, there is no re-entry. If you leave the facility for any reason, you will not be allowed to return with the same ticket. Therefore, double-check that you have everything you need before entering. Churchill Downs also emphasizes a ‘See Something, Say Something’ approach. If you notice anything unusual or concerning, immediately report it to the authorities by calling 502-636-4526.
Kentucky Derby Week Bag Policy: What You Can Bring
Churchill Downs has a restricted bag policy in effect from Saturday, April 27th, 2024, through Derby Day, Saturday, May 4th, 2024. Each guest is allowed to bring only one bag, and it must not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″ in size. This policy is strictly enforced to enhance security and expedite entry for all attendees.
Prohibited Items: Leave These Behind
To maintain a safe and enjoyable environment, numerous items are prohibited from being brought into Churchill Downs during Derby Week. This list is comprehensive, so review it carefully before heading to the track. Prohibited items include:
- Air horns and noise makers
- Alcoholic beverages (alcohol is available for purchase inside)
- Backpacks and duffel bags
- Bags larger than the permitted size (12″ x 6″ x 12″)
- Balloons and inflatables (they can obstruct views)
- Balls and frisbees (for the safety of the crowds)
- Banners and signs (unless pre-approved)
- Cameras with detachable lenses or lenses 6” or larger (for non-credentialed media)
- Canopies and tents
- Cans (of any kind) and glass bottles or containers
- Chains
- Collapsible chairs (with exceptions for the Infield – see below)
- Confetti and fireworks
- Coolers and thermoses
- Drones and remote-controlled aircraft
- Firearms and weapons of any kind
- Food (except under specific exceptions noted below)
- Grills
- Hoverboards, skateboards, and scooters
- Illegal substances, mace, and pepper spray
- Knives and laser lights/pointers
- Luggage
- Personal music players without headphones and portable speakers/sound systems
- Pets (except trained service animals)
- Poles or sticks of any size and selfie sticks
- Projectile items
- Seat cushions larger than 15″ X 15″ with metal components, zippers, pockets, or flaps
- Tripods
- Umbrellas of any size
- Wagons
- Any items deemed dangerous or inappropriate by security personnel
Alt text: Security staff inspecting bags at the entrance of Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby event.
Any prohibited items will need to be returned to your vehicle or discarded before entry. Churchill Downs will not be responsible for discarded items.
Allowed Items: Notable Exceptions
While the list of prohibited items is extensive, there are some exceptions for essential items.
Frontside Gates – Derby Week Exceptions:
- Baby bags and diaper bags are permitted if you are accompanied by a child, but they are subject to search.
- Strollers are allowed if you are accompanied by a child.
Frontside Gates – Kentucky Oaks & Derby Exceptions (Dietary Needs):
- Guests with specific dietary needs or restrictions can bring boxed lunches or food items. These must be in clear plastic bags or containers no larger than 12″ X 6″ X 12″ and fit either in your allowed bag or a one-gallon clear Ziploc-style storage bag (no trash bags). Only one such food bag is allowed per person in addition to the standard bag allowance.
Infield Gate Exceptions:
- Boxed lunches and food items are allowed under the same conditions as for Frontside guests with dietary needs (clear bags, size restrictions).
- Bottled water: You may bring up to two sealed, clear, unopened plastic bottles of water (maximum 24 oz each).
- Collapsible camping chairs without canopies are permitted in the Infield only (must be carried separately, not in their bags, during security search).
- Tarpaulins (“Tarps”) and picnic blankets smaller than 10’ x 10’ are allowed. Once inside, tarps cannot be attached to the infield fence or any permanent structure.
Gates & Post Times: Plan Your Arrival
Information regarding specific gate opening times and the Kentucky Derby post time for 2025 will be released closer to the event date. For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official Kentucky Derby website as your event day approaches. Knowing the Kentucky Derby start time and gate information is key to planning your arrival, navigating security smoothly, and settling in to enjoy all the excitement of the races.
By being well-informed about the security policies and prohibited items, you can ensure a smoother entry into Churchill Downs and focus on enjoying the spectacular Kentucky Derby experience. Remember to check for any updates to these policies before attending.
