The Kentucky Derby is Saturday. Here’s what you should know about the horse racing event

The 150th Kentucky Derby is quickly approaching, and you don’t need to be in the Bluegrass State to enjoy a mint julep while you sing “My Old Kentucky Home.”

The annual horse race is an exciting time for people to get together, place bets and revel in the southern charm of the event.

Even if you know nothing about horse racing or Derby Day traditions, there are plenty of ways to learn about them before you participate in the festivities.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Kentucky Derby and Arizona events celebrating the day.

What is the Kentucky Derby?

This annual springtime horse race is the longest continually held sporting event in America. The Kentucky Derby is the first jewel of the Triple Crown series, followed by the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore and the Belmont Stakes in New York.

While the fanfare lasts all day, the race itself is 1.25 miles and typically lasts around two minutes. The race is also known as the “Run for the Roses” after the bed of roses that gets placed upon the winning horse’s back.

More Kentucky Derby: Catch up on ‘Race for the Roses’ coverage in time for 150th race

When is the Kentucky Derby in 2024?

The Kentucky Derby is traditionally held on the first Saturday of May. This year, the race will take place on Saturday, May 4.

What time is the Kentucky Derby?

The live coverage of the event begins at 2:30 p.m. Eastern time or 11:30 a.m. in Arizona.

The race is slated to start at 6:57 p.m. Eastern time and 3:57 p.m. in Arizona. You can find the full schedule online at churchilldowns.com.

How can I watch the Kentucky Derby?

NBC and USA Network will have live Kentucky Derby coverage. You can also stream coverage on Peacock, NBCSports.com and the NBC Sports app.

Kentucky Derby events in Arizona

If you want to do more than just watch the big day on television, here are some of the biggest events in Arizona to gather and celebrate the event.