Your Ultimate Guide to the Kentucky Derby 2024: Viewing Tips, Start Time, and Event Highlights

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Get ready for the excitement of the 2024 Kentucky Derby, known as the Greatest Two Minutes in Sports. In just a few days, this event offers something for everyone.

Sports fans can enjoy the thrill of the race, while bettors have the opportunity to wager on a variety of outcomes. Pop culture enthusiasts can spot numerous celebrities in the crowd, and those who love hats can show off their unique and funny headwear.

The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race. It is a significant cultural event held in Louisville, Kentucky every spring, marking the beginning of the prestigious Triple Crown series. So, grab your best bourbon and familiarize yourself with horse racing terminology because it's almost time for the riders to mount up!

Now, let's dive into everything you need to know about the 2024 Kentucky Derby.

When Is the 2024 Kentucky Derby?

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The 150th Kentucky Derby will take place on Saturday, May 4.

What Time Does the 2024 Kentucky Derby Start?

Post time for the 2024 Kentucky Derby will be at 6:57 p.m. ET.

Where Can You Watch the 2024 Kentucky Derby?

The Kentucky Derby, a.k.a. the Run for the Roses, will air on NBC.

How Much Prize Money Does the Winner of the 2024 Kentucky Derby Get?

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This year, the Kentucky Derby has the biggest prize money ever, a whopping $5 million. The winner will walk away with $3.1 million, the second place will get $1 million, the third place will earn $500,000, the fourth place will receive $250,000, and the fifth place will take home $150,000.

Who Is Favored to Win the 2024 Kentucky Derby?

At 3-1 odds, Fierceness is the current Kentucky Derby favorite. Sierra Leone (7-2) and Catching Freedom (8-1) are right behind.

Who Will Sing the National Anthem at the 2024 Kentucky Derby?

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Kentucky native Wynonna Judd will perform the national anthem, she announced last week via Facebook.

"From attending races as a child to performing the national anthem during this special year, Judd expressed how it feels like a complete journey."

Who will Give the Riders Up! Command?

At the 2024 Kentucky Derby, Martha Stewart will have the prestigious role of giving the “riders up” order as the grand marshal. In previous years, different celebrities have taken on this ceremonial role, such as Patrick Mahomes last year. Typically, the grand marshal has had Kentucky ties, with past individuals including Jack Harlow, Teddy Bridgewater, Laila Ali, and John Calipari.

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In addition to Judd and Stewart, you can expect to see many other famous faces at the Kentucky Derby. While we may not know everyone who will be there, we can get some hints from the guest list of the Unbridled Eve Derby Gala. This charity gala takes place the night before the derby and has attracted celebrities from various fields such as music, TV, and sports over the past ten years.

According to the Courier Journal, the following celebrities are expected to attend this year:

Rauw Alejandro (Grammy Award Nominee)

Larry Demeritte (First Black trainer to qualify for Kentucky Derby)

John Elefante (Former lead singer of Kansas)

Bob Guiney (The Bachelor)

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (Former NBA player)

Lisa Leslie (Basketball Hall of Famer)

Madison Marsh (Miss America 2024)

Mike Mills (R.E.M.)

Warren Moon (NFL Hall of Famer)

Dean Norris (Breaking Bad)

Richie Sambora (Lead guitarist for Bon Jovi)

John Schneider (The Dukes of Hazzard)

J.D. Shelburne (Country music artist)

Randy Travis (Grammy-winning country music artist)

What Kentucky Derby Traditions Should You Know About?

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At the Kentucky Derby, guests have the chance to showcase their creativity through elaborate hats. The event offers hat suggestions on its website, with guest style editor Zanna Roberts Rassi advising to begin with the hat and coordinate the rest of the outfit accordingly.

Kentucky Derby isn't complete without a mint julep. You can use Woodford Reserve or any other brand you like. Just gather sugar, mint, and ice.

When it comes to Derby traditions, food is just as important as drinks. The hot brown sandwich is a classic choice, featuring turkey, bacon, tomatoes, and mornay sauce on thick-cut toast.

The Garland of Roses: When the race ends, you’ll see the winning jockey adorned in a blanket of 554 red roses in a tradition that dates back to 1896.

Editor's P/S:

The Kentucky Derby, an iconic sporting event, promises an unforgettable experience for enthusiasts of various interests. From the adrenaline-pumping race to the celebrity sightings and flamboyant hat displays, this event transcends the realm of mere competition. The 2024 edition, marking the 150th anniversary, holds even greater excitement with a record-breaking prize pool of $5 million.

Beyond the spectacle, the Kentucky Derby is deeply rooted in tradition. The mint julep, a refreshing beverage, and the hot brown sandwich, a culinary delight, are integral to the Derby experience. The Garland of Roses, a symbol of triumph, has been bestowed upon the winning jockey since 1896, adding a touch of elegance to the proceedings. The presence of renowned celebrities, such as Wynonna Judd and Martha Stewart, further elevates the event's cultural significance.