What Time Does the Kentucky Derby 2025 Start? Post Time, Gate Opening & Race Finish

The Kentucky Derby is one of America’s most popular sports events. It is famous for its thrilling horse race, colourful hats and long-standing traditions.

The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby is set for Saturday, May 3, 2025. Fans from around the globe eagerly anticipate this event, and knowing the exact times can make your Derby experience perfect.

We’ll explain the full timetable here, including gate opening, post time, race finish and international broadcast times. The Kentucky Derby is known as the “Run for the Roses.” Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, hosts this annual horse racing event.

Thousands gather at the track, and millions more watch on TV worldwide. Let’s jump straight into the timetable details for the big day.

Kentucky Derby 2025 start time

When will the Kentucky Derby gates open?

The gates open at 9:00 AM ET. Fans can enter early, explore Churchill Downs, and enjoy the lively Derby atmosphere. Arriving early is essential to secure a good spot and avoid long queues.

What time is the first race on the big day?

Horse racing excitement begins at 11:00 AM ET. Multiple races are held throughout Derby Day, building anticipation for the main event.

What is the post time for the Kentucky Derby 2025?

The 2025 Kentucky Derby will begin at 6:57 PM ET. It’s a highlight race of the day, so mark this post time carefully.

What time is the Kentucky Derby finished?

Kentucky Derby is expected to finish around 7:00 PM ET.

When is the last race post-time?

There will be 14 races on the KY Derby day. The last race post is 8:33 PM ET.

Kentucky Derby 2025 Start time Across All U.S. time Zones

To help everyone in the U.S. enjoy the event without confusion, here’s the Derby timetable converted to each American time zone:

  • Eastern time (ET): Gates open at 9:00 AM, Derby race at 6:57 PM.
  • Central time (CT): Gates open at 8:00 AM, Derby race at 5:57 PM.
  • Mountain Time (MT): Gates open at 7:00 AM, Derby at 4:57 PM.
  • Pacific Time (PT): Gates open at 6:00 AM, Derby race at 3:57 PM.
  • Alaska Time (AKT): Gates at 5:00 AM, Derby race at 2:57 PM.
  • Hawaii Time (HST): Gates open at 4:00 AM, Derby at 12:57 PM.

International Timetable for Horse Racing Fans

Horse racing is loved worldwide, and Kentucky Derby fans span continents. Below is the Derby time in popular international locations where horse racing has a strong following:

  • United Kingdom: 11:57 PM (BST)
  • Ireland: 11:57 PM (IST)
  • Australia (Sydney): 8:57 AM, Sun, May 4 (AEST)
  • Australia (Melbourne): 8:57 AM, Sun, May 4 (AEST)
  • Australia (Perth): 6:57 AM, Sun, May 4 (AWST)
  • Canada (Toronto): 6:57 PM (EDT)
  • Canada (Vancouver): 3:57 PM (PDT)
  • France/Germany/Italy: 12:57 AM, Sun, May 4 (CEST)
  • Japan: 7:57 AM, Sun, May 4 (JST)
  • UAE (Dubai): 7:57 AM, Sun, May 4 (JST)
  • Hong Kong: 7:57 AM, Sun, May 4 (JST)
  • New Zealand: 9:57 AM, Sun, May 4 (NZST)
  • South Africa: 12:57 AM, Sun, May 4 (SAST)

How to Watch the 2025 Kentucky Derby?

In the United States, NBC Sports will broadcast the Kentucky Derby live, starting their coverage at 2:30 PM ET. NBC provides thorough pre-race analysis, interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories about jockeys and horses.

If you prefer streaming, NBC will offer live streaming via Peacock, their streaming service. Online viewing is easily accessible on computers, tablets, phones, and TVs.

Different countries will have their international broadcasting arrangements. Sky Sports often covers the Kentucky Derby in the United Kingdom and Ireland, while Fox Sports typically has rights in Australia.

Also Check: List of Kentucky Derby winners

Derby Week Festivities

The excitement doesn’t only happen on Derby day. The entire week leading up to the Kentucky Derby is filled with events. Notably, the Kentucky Oaks race occurs on Friday, May 2, 2025, with a post time around 5:51 PM ET. This is also a huge day, drawing crowds and offering entertainment.

Quick Tips for Derby Day

Get there early to grab a good spot and enjoy the day without rushing. Dressing up is part of the fun, so wear something stylish—hats and bright outfits are great choices.

The day can be long, and the weather might change, so drink plenty of water to stay refreshed. If you place bets, keep it fun and stick to a budget.

The Kentucky Derby is more than a horse race. It’s filled with history, excitement, and great moments.

The 2025 Kentucky Derby is coming soon. Millions will watch this exciting race, which is fast, fun, and unforgettable.

Join fans around the world watching the 151st Kentucky Derby on race day. Enjoy the race!