How to get tickets to the 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival fashion show

The Kentucky Derby Festival’s annual spring fashion show is fast approaching and it will be a night filled with color, statement looks and fresh trends.

The theme of the 2026 Dillard’s Spring Fashion Show, held this year on March 26 at Caesars Southern Indiana, 11999 Casino Center Drive SE in Elizabeth, Indiana, is “Color Rush: Fashion at the Speed of Life” and will showcase bold colors and fashion that captures the energy of the season. Think sleek accessories, bold looks, and all the finishing touches that make a Derby outfit unforgettable.

“Designers embrace bold color-drenched palettes paired with luxurious textures, fringe that sways with every step, feathers that flutter, satin that shines and tulle that adds playful drama,” Christine Fellingham, fashion show producer, said in a news release. “These aren’t just outfits; they’re expressions of how you feel.”

Buy Kentucky Derby tickets

The runway show will feature outfits and accessories from Dillard’s and Dillard’s Men. There will also be looks from several local boutiques, including Glasscock/Glasscock Too, Lady Luck Boutique, Magnolia & Fig, Mamili Boutique, Pineapple Paisley Boutique, Rodeo Drive, Sapphire on Spring Boutique, That Cute Little Shop and Work the Metal.

More fashion news: Top Kentucky Derby dress and outfit ideas and trends for women in 2026

Hats are from Rhorer Couture Millinery, the Derby Festival’s Official Hat Designer, and hair and make-up are provided by J Michael’s Spa & Salon. Some of the Kentucky Derby Festival’s official products will also be featured at the event.

“We’re proud to return as the Title Sponsor and continue supporting our community as Louisville gears up for Derby season,” George Tanner, store manager at Dillard’s Mall St. Matthews said in the release. “The Dillard’s Spring Fashion Show celebrates the style and spirit of this time of year, and at Dillard’s, you’ll find everything you need for every event that comes with it.”

First produced in 1990, the Kentucky Derby Festival Fashion Show was originally created as a venue for unveiling the Festival’s Board of Director’s uniform. It was so successful, the Festival decided to make it a permanent addition to the Festival schedule.

Here’s what to know about the Kentucky Derby Festival 2026 Dillard’s Spring Fashion Show:

When is the KDF Dillard’s Spring Fashion Show?

More than just a fashion show, the Thursday, March 26 event is a fun night out with friends for those 21 years and older.

More Kentucky Derby fashion: Kentucky Derby outfits and attire ideas and trends for guys in 2026

The pre-show kicks off at 5 p.m. with boutique shopping and cocktails. Before the doors open for the runway show, vendors from various boutiques will be set up on the second floor of the casino, and cash bars will be available. Doors to the casino’s expansive showroom open at 6:45 p.m., with dinner served at 7 p.m. Guests have a full hour to dine, mingle, and soak in the excitement before the runway lights come up at 8 p.m.

Where is the KDF Dillard’s Spring Fashion Show?

The spring fashion event takes place at Caesars Southern Indiana, 11999 Casino Center Drive SE in Elizabeth, Indiana.

What are my ticket options for the KDF Dillard’s Spring Fashion Show?

Main Floor tickets, which include dinner, are $150 or $1,500 for a table of 10 (includes reserved dinner seating and show). A cash bar will be available during the boutique shopping hour (cocktails not included with your ticket).

Purchase tickets at kdf.org.

Reach Kirby Adams at kadams@courier-journal.com