Can I bring an umbrella to Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby?

[ASFN Admin]

It's probably going to rain on Kentucky Oaks Day, held this year on May 1. But if you're headed to Churchill Downs ― don't pack an umbrella.

Churchill Downs, 700 Central Ave., Louisville, Ky., doesn't allow them inside the storied track where the Kentucky Oaks and Derby runs each year.

In fact, there are quite a few things that track security won't let you bring through the gate.

Before heading to Churchill Downs for Kentucky Derby Week, here's a quick primer on what items you can and cannot bring with you.

Can I bring an umbrella to Churchill Downs?​

No. Umbrellas are prohibited at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby Week as they block other guests’ views.


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What is the purse and bag policy at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby?​

Each guest at the Kentucky Derby is permitted to bring one bag no larger than 12-inches-by-6-inches-by-12-inches or a small clutch that is smaller than 6.5-inches-by-4.5 inches. Baby and diaper bags are allowed if guests have a child with them.

Prohibited items at Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby Week​

Here are a list of items that are prohibited at Churchill Downs, according to the Kentucky Derby website:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Backpacks, duffel bags and luggage
• Bags larger than 12-inches-by-6-inches-by-12-inches
• Balloons and inflatables
• Banners and/or signs, unless pre-approved
• Cameras with detachable lenses or equipped with a lens that is 6 inches or larger
• Canopies and tents
• Cans (any size or type), glass bottles or containers
• Collapsible chairs, including those without canopies (collapsible chairs without canopies are allowed in the infield)
• Confetti
• Coolers
• Chains
• Drones and remote-controlled aircraft
• Fireworks, noisemakers, air horns and laser lights/pointers
• Food and beverages (see above)
• Grills
• Hoverboards, skateboards and scooters
• Illegal substances
• Personal music players without headphones and portable speakers/sound systems
• Pets, except for trained service animals
• Poles or sticks of any size
• Projectile items, balls and frisbees
• Seat cushions that are larger than 15-inches-by-15-inches and contain metal arms and/or backs, zippers, pockets or flaps
• Selfie sticks
• Thermoses
• Tripods
• Umbrellas of any size
• Wagons
• Weapons of any kind, including firearms, knives, mace, pepper spray
• Any items deemed dangerous and/or inappropriate

What to bring to Churchill Downs during Kentucky Derby Week​

Here's what you can bring if you're heading to Churchill Downs for Kentucky Derby Week:

• A hat. Whether it’s more structured or has feathers and florals, hats are part of the tradition. You can also wear a fascinator.
• Sunscreen or a lightweight, clear rain poncho, depending on the forecast. The Kentucky Derby is held rain or shine, so dress for the weather.
• Consider bringing a pair of comfortable shoes or flip-flops to change into during the long day.
• Binoculars
• Hand sanitizer
• In the infield gate, boxed lunches and food items are allowed in the guest's bag or one-gallon clear Ziploc-style bag (no trash bags). Guests are limited to one bag each. Bottled water in a sealed, clear, unopened plastic bottle is also allowed. There is a limit of two 24-ounce bottles per person.
• A picnic blanket that is smaller than 10-feet-by-10-feet, but only in the infield.
• A seat cushion that is smaller than 15-inches-by-15-inches and does not contain metal arms and/or backs, zippers, pockets or flaps.

Reach breaking news reporter Caroline Neal at [email protected] reporter Maggie Menderski at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: What you can, can't bring to Churchill Downs for Kentucky Derby 2026

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