How’s The Weather For Kentucky Derby?

The Kentucky Derby is Saturday at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, and as a meteorologist who spent several years working in the "Derby City," the weather can be all over the place this time of year.

The derby is always held the first Saturday in May, meaning the actual calendar dates change every year, and so can the weather.

The National Weather Service in Louisville has kept records of the weather that occurred on every Oaks and Derby Day since the 1800s.

(MORE: Latest Louisville Forecast Details)

Kentucky Derby Forecast

The post time for the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby is slated for 6:57 p.m. EDT Saturday.

Unlike last year, the odds are in favor of a fast track this year. On-and-off rain showers led to a wet and sloppy track during the "Run For The Roses" on May 3, 2025. And if you thought 65 degrees was cool last year, this year will be even cooler, in fact chilly, in my opinion.

(MORE: How Weather, Breeding And AI Could Reshape Horse Racing)

Highs are only expected to climb into the upper 50s to near 60 degrees with a mix of sun and clouds, so this year is all about the layers. A north to northwest wind up to 10 mph may get under a few hats or fascinators, so be sure to secure those well if heading to the track.

We can't completely rule out a sprinkle or light shower, but that chance is very low on Saturday.

(MORE: How Weather Can Affect Horses At The Kentucky Derby)

Tiffany Savona is a digital meteorologist for weather.com. She has 15+ years of experience tracking storms as a broadcast meteorologist across the country.