Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon 2025

• Scenic course through urban streets, historic neighborhoods, and parks, passing landmarks like the Louisville Slugger Museum and Churchill Downs.
• Festive atmosphere with live music and entertainment, embodying the Derby spirit; course is a Boston Marathon qualifier.
• Starts at Main and Brook Streets, finishing at Preston and Witherspoon; race begins at 7 a.m.
• Packet pick-up at Freedom Hall; RaceJoy app offers live tracking; water stations and restrooms along the course.
• No bicycles or strollers allowed; Marathon Relay available for teams; deferrals honored for one year.

The Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon in Louisville offers runners a unique blend of Southern charm and race-day excitement. This annual event, part of the city's famed Derby Festival, takes participants on a dynamic course through vibrant urban streets, historic neighborhoods, and scenic parks, finishing at the legendary Churchill Downs. With a variety of race distances, including a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K, it's accessible to runners of all levels. The lively atmosphere is fueled by live music, entertainment, and enthusiastic crowd support. As a Boston and World Major Qualifier, it attracts competitive runners aiming for personal bests while also offering a charity program for those looking to make a difference. The race is known for its impeccable organization, featuring ample aid stations, clear signage, and a well-managed corral system, ensuring a smooth experience. The Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon is a must-run event that beautifully showcases Louisville's community spirit and hospitality.

Expect temperatures between 45-71°F (7-22°C) with moderate humidity for the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon in late April. Be prepared for cloudy skies and a 41% chance of rain, which could lead to occasional showers or thunderstorms. Runners can enjoy mildly cool and breezy conditions with over 13 hours of daylight to guide their way.

The Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon offers runners a captivating journey through Louisville's vibrant landscapes. Starting and finishing in downtown Louisville, the course weaves through historic neighborhoods, the iconic Churchill Downs, and the lush Olmsted Park System, including Iroquois Park. Runners can expect a mostly flat terrain with some moderate hills, particularly in Iroquois Park and between miles 21 to 23, contributing to an elevation gain of 388 feet.

As you glide past landmarks like the Louisville Slugger Museum and the lively NuLu district, the race's festive atmosphere—a hallmark of the Kentucky Derby Festival—enlivens your stride with live music and enthusiastic crowd support. A standout moment is the unique experience of running through Churchill Downs.

However, the course presents its challenges. The hills from miles 10 to 15 in Iroquois Park demand respect, and the pedestrian bridge at miles 14 and 24 poses a notable incline. Despite these hurdles, the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon remains a must-do event, delivering a memorable blend of scenic beauty, historic charm, and spirited community energy.

Visiting Louisville for the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon offers more than just a race; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in a city rich with history and culture. Louisville's downtown is walkable, making it easy to explore key attractions like the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, a must-see for baseball fans. A visit to Churchill Downs, home of the legendary Kentucky Derby, provides a glimpse into horse racing history, while the Historic Old Louisville Walking Tours showcase the city's stunning Victorian architecture.

The Kentucky Derby Festival itself is a vibrant celebration, offering a variety of events that capture the spirit of the Derby. Don't miss the Urban Bourbon Trail, where you can savor the city's famous bourbon at local distilleries. For a peaceful retreat, Waterfront Park offers lovely views of the Ohio River, and the Muhammad Ali Center provides an inspiring look at the life of the famed boxer.

Accommodations near the marathon's finish line fill up quickly, so it's wise to book early. The city's efficient parking options and walkability make it easy to enjoy the museum district and other attractions without a car. Whether you're navigating the rolling hills of Iroquois Park or relaxing post-race at Lynn Family Soccer Stadium, Louisville promises an unforgettable experience.