Kentucky Oaks: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Kentucky Oaks (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Kentucky Oaks is celebrated on May 5th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Kentucky Oaks, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you ought to know about Kentucky Oaks.

📅 What day is Kentucky Oaks 2024?

In 2024, Kentucky Oaks is on Friday, May 5th. It is the 1st Friday in May; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all the fun details and facts about May 5, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

The Kentucky Oaks takes place every year on the Friday before the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. This year, it will be held on May 5. The race was initiated by Lewis Clark, Jr. in 1875 and has since become one of the most well-known horse races in the United States, alongside the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. The Longines Kentucky Oaks is specifically for three-year-old fillies and remains one of the oldest ongoing athletic events in history.

📜 Kentucky Oaks History

The Kentucky Oaks is considered a highly popular horse race in the United States by many. In 1980, over 50,000 individuals attended the event. To honor the winner of the race, Lemon & Son, Inc. commissioned Redlich & Co. of New York City to design a trophy cup. This trophy is typically made of sterling silver and stands at around 25 inches tall. It features horse-head handles on each side and a decorative horseshoe on top. Every year, the name of the winner is engraved on the trophy. In 1955, Churchill Downs decided to include the names of all previous winners before the 1924 race. Princess Doreen was the first winner to have her name engraved on the trophy, which was presented in 1924. The owner, Harry Stutts, trainer S. Miller Henderson, and a breeder from the Audley Farm Stable were all present at the inaugural ceremony.

✅ Kentucky Oaks Facts

🔖 Kentucky cocktail
The Kentucky Oaks has a unique and special beverage that is associated with the event.

🔖 First female winner

🔖 Pink is the color of the day
On Kentucky Oaks Day, Churchill Downs will be adorned in a vibrant shade of pink to support the cause of finding a cure for breast and ovarian cancer.

👍 Why Is Kentucky Oaks Important

Attending a horse racing event is a fantastic way to meet new people. You get to dress up, which may add to the fun of the occasion. It is a family-friendly event, with events for all ages and races.

The rush of being on a racetrack grounds is unparalleled.When the horses speed down the final stretch of the racetrack, you’re practically on the edge of your seat. During this time, the energy in the audience is evident.

Kentucky Oaks promotes breast and ovarian cancer awareness. On the day of the event, attendees wear pink to honor cancer patients.

🙂 How To Observe Kentucky Oaks

⚡ Read on the history of Kentucky Oaks

⚡ Purchase your tickets
Don’t miss out on your chance to attend the Kentucky Oaks horse racing event this year! Secure your tickets by purchasing them through Ticketmaster. It’s important to act quickly, as tickets tend to sell out fast.

⚡ Share via your socials
Participate in the celebration by learning about the history of Kentucky oaks. Learn about its history, bidding, horse racing, and racetrack etiquette.

📅 When is Kentucky Oaks?

View all 🔗 May holidays, including 🔗 Arts & Entertainment and other 🔗 Activities holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about Kentucky Oaks. So be sure to check back soon.