Louisville, Kentucky, January 23, 2026
The Kentucky Derby Festival’s races are nearly at full capacity, with registration deadlines approaching fast for the 5K, Humana miniMarathon, and Marathon. Participants are encouraged to sign up soon to secure their spots in these popular events that celebrate Louisville’s rich traditions ahead of the iconic Kentucky Derby. Training programs to assist runners are also available.
Louisville, Kentucky – Kentucky Derby Festival Races Near Capacity as Registration Closes Soon
Louisville, Kentucky – The Kentucky Derby Festival’s 2026 races are approaching full capacity, with registration closing soon for the 5K, Humana miniMarathon, and Marathon events. Organizers have announced that spots are filling up quickly, urging interested participants to register promptly to secure their places in these popular events.
Event Details
The Kentucky Derby Festival offers a series of races leading up to the iconic Kentucky Derby. The events include:
- 5K Race: A 3.1-mile run suitable for participants of all ages and skill levels.
- Humana miniMarathon: A half-marathon covering 13.1 miles, challenging both seasoned runners and newcomers.
- Marathon: A full 26.2-mile race for experienced runners seeking a rigorous challenge.
These races are scheduled to take place in April 2026, with exact dates to be announced. The events are part of the Kentucky Derby Festival, a series of festivities leading up to the Kentucky Derby, celebrating the rich traditions and culture of Louisville.
Registration Information
Registration for the 2026 races opened in June 2025, offering special pricing for a limited time. As the event dates approach, registration has been filling up rapidly. Prospective participants are encouraged to visit the official Kentucky Derby Festival website to register and secure their spots before the events reach full capacity.
Training Programs
To assist participants in preparing for the races, the Kentucky Derby Festival, in partnership with Norton Sports Health, offers a free 15-week training program. This program caters to various fitness levels, providing guidance and support to help runners achieve their personal best. Training registration opened on November 13, 2025, and is available through the Kentucky Derby Festival’s official website.
Background
The Kentucky Derby Festival is an annual event in Louisville, Kentucky, celebrating the traditions and culture surrounding the Kentucky Derby. The festival features a variety of events, including races, parades, and concerts, drawing participants and spectators from across the nation. The races are a highlight of the festival, attracting runners of all levels to the city each year.
Weather Advisory
Participants should be aware of the upcoming weather conditions. A major winter storm is forecasted to impact the Louisville area this weekend, with significant travel disruptions expected. The storm is anticipated to bring heavy mixed precipitation, including snow and ice, leading to power outages and hazardous travel conditions. Those planning to travel to Louisville for the races are advised to monitor local weather updates and plan accordingly.
Contact Information
For more information on the Kentucky Derby Festival races, registration details, and training programs, please visit the official Kentucky Derby Festival website or contact their customer service department.
FAQ
What are the dates for the 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival races?
The exact dates for the 2026 races have not been announced yet. Please check the official Kentucky Derby Festival website for updates.
How can I register for the races?
Registration is available through the official Kentucky Derby Festival website. Spots are filling up quickly, so it’s recommended to register as soon as possible.
Is there a training program available for participants?
Yes, the Kentucky Derby Festival offers a free 15-week training program in partnership with Norton Sports Health. Registration for the training program opened on November 13, 2025, and is available through the official website.
What is the Kentucky Derby Festival?
The Kentucky Derby Festival is an annual event in Louisville, Kentucky, celebrating the traditions and culture surrounding the Kentucky Derby. It features a variety of events, including races, parades, and concerts, drawing participants and spectators from across the nation.
What is the weather forecast for Louisville this weekend?
A major winter storm is forecasted to impact the Louisville area this weekend, with significant travel disruptions expected. The storm is anticipated to bring heavy mixed precipitation, including snow and ice, leading to power outages and hazardous travel conditions. Those planning to travel to Louisville for the races are advised to monitor local weather updates and plan accordingly.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | To be announced; check the official website for updates. |
| Registration Status | Filling up quickly; register soon to secure your spot. |
| Training Program | Free 15-week program available; registration opened on November 13, 2025. |
| Weather Advisory | Major winter storm expected this weekend; monitor local weather updates. |
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