The Kentucky Oaks is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-old thoroughbred fillies held annually in Louisville, Kentucky on the Friday before the Kentucky Derby. Often referred to as “Lilies for the Fillies”, it is one of the most prestigious horse races for fillies in the United States. Ticket prices for the Kentucky Oaks vary depending on the type of seats and range from around $10 for general admission to over $1000 for luxury suites and dining packages.
Kentucky Oaks Overview
The Kentucky Oaks was first held in 1875 at the original Churchill Downs racetrack. It was named after the state flower of Kentucky, the cabbage rose. Over time, the cabbage rose was renamed the Kentucky rose. The race was designed as a counterpart to the Kentucky Derby for three-year-old fillies. Since inception, the Kentucky Oaks has been held the day before the Kentucky Derby. It is considered the second-biggest race of the Kentucky racing season, after the Derby.
The Kentucky Oaks is run at 1 1/8 miles on dirt. It currently offers a purse of $1.25 million, making it one of the richest races for fillies in the world. It has produced several equine champions over the years including Gallorette, Real Delight, and Open Mind. Attendance at the Oaks has risen steadily since the 1970s, frequently surpassing 100,000 spectators in recent years.
In addition to the main Kentucky Oaks race, there is an undercard of stakes races earlier in the day. These races feature top thoroughbred fillies and mares from across the country. Oaks Day has become nearly as much of a social and fashion event as the Kentucky Derby itself, with many attendees wearing hats and fancy dresses.
Where to Buy Kentucky Oaks Tickets
There are several options for purchasing Kentucky Oaks tickets:
Online
The safest and most convenient way to buy Kentucky Oaks tickets is through the official Kentucky Derby website (kentuckyderby.com). This will ensure the tickets are valid and guarantees they are coming directly from the official source. Ticket prices may fluctuate based on availability.
Ticket Brokers
There are many ticket reseller websites online that offer Kentucky Oaks tickets, often at inflated prices. Some of the most reputable brokers include Vivid Seats, StubHub and SeatGeek. Prices can vary greatly so it pays to shop around. Make sure to use a trusted vendor.
Churchill Downs Ticket Office
You can purchase Kentucky Oaks tickets directly through the Churchill Downs racetrack box office, located near Gate 1. The ticket windows are open 7 days a week in the months leading up to the race. This is the only way to buy tickets in person.
Ebay or Craigslist
Tickets are sometimes available on secondary markets like Ebay and Craigslist from individual sellers. Use caution purchasing tickets this way, as there is a risk of fraud or counterfeits. Meet the seller in person to complete the transaction if possible.
Types of Kentucky Oaks Tickets and Prices
There are a wide range of ticket options available for the Kentucky Oaks at varying prices:
General Admission
General admission tickets grant access to the grounds and infield at Churchill Downs. Prices start around $10-20 per ticket. This allows you to bring your own food/drinks and set up a blanket but does not reserve a seat.
Grandstand Reserved
Grandstand seats are reserved spots in the 3-tiered grandstand that stretches along the frontside and backside at the racetrack. Prices range from $40-100 per seat depending on specific location.
Box Seats
Box seats are premium cushioned seats located directly trackside in boxes of 6 seats. Box seat prices range from $750-1200 per seat.
Millionaires Row
The most exclusive section is Millionaires Row, with luxury seating in restricted access areas. These tickets can cost $2000-$3000+ per person.
Infield Club Tent
The Infield Club offers tent seating at tables with a full buffet and open bar included. Tickets are around $400 per person.
Turf Club/Jockey Club Suites
These ultra-premium suites have indoor and outdoor seating and top-shelf amenities/dining options. Prices start at $2000-$2500 per person.
Finish Line Suites
The Finish Line Suites overlook the track right by the finish pole. They come with fine dining, premium bars and luxury furnishings. Expect to pay at least $5000 per person.
Best Places to Sit at the Kentucky Oaks
Where you want to sit depends on your budget and preferences. Here are some of the best seating options for enjoying the Kentucky Oaks:
Sections 111-112
These box seats right next to the finish line provide amazing views of the starting gates and final stretch. You’ll be able to see the horses thunder down the homestretch towards you.
Section 320
For a more affordable option with great views, go for seats here at the top of the grandstands right at the 1/16th pole. You’ll have a perfect angle looking down the stretch.
Aisle Seats
Try to get aisle seats if possible, especially if your section is crowded. This will make it easier to move around and see more sights between races.
Infield
The infield offers a fun, party-like atmosphere with the closest proximity to the track. Just don’t expect a quiet setting!
Millionaire’s Row
For luxury treatment, the exclusive Millionaire’s Row offers premium amenities like gourmet food and specialty bars just feet from the finish line.
When to Buy Kentucky Oaks Tickets
Timing your Kentucky Oaks ticket purchase depends on how you plan your trip:
As Soon as Possible
If attending the Oaks is your priority, buy tickets as early as you can. Inventory is limited and prices go up as the event nears.
After Flights/Hotels Booked
If you want to finalize travel plans first, wait until flights and hotels are booked to buy tickets.
December-February
This is the ideal window to get the best deals before most tickets sell out. Avoid buying the week of the event.
Watch Ticket Resale Sites
Keep checking ticket resale sites for price drops as the event gets closer. Sellers lower prices to sell excess inventory.
Offseason
Consider buying tickets well in advance, even right after the current year’s race. There are deals to be had buying offseason.
How Kentucky Oaks Ticket Prices Fluctuate
Kentucky Oaks ticket prices will change in the months and weeks leading up to the big race based on factors like:
Supply and Demand
As tickets sell out, remaining seats become more valuable and prices rise accordingly. Limited supply leads to higher prices.
Weather Forecast
Beautiful weather forecasts in Louisville drive up demand, while rain or storms can lower prices.
Horse Entry Status
When Kentucky Oaks entries are announced in April, an extremely popular horse can increase prices.
Last Minute Sales
In the final weeks, unsold tickets will get lower prices as sellers become eager to dump inventory.
Proximity to Event
The closer you buy to the race date, the higher prices tend to go across the board.
Group Size
It’s harder to find blocks of seats together as it sells out, meaning bigger groups pay a premium.
Ways to Get Discounts on Kentucky Oaks Tickets
While the Oaks offers world-class racing, there are still ways to get discounted tickets:
Buy General Admission
General admission into the infield offers the cheapest way to experience the Oaks, often as low as $10-20 per ticket.
Look for Promotions
Churchill Downs sometimes offers special deals like buy one get one free ticket offers in the months leading up to the races.
Join a Kentucky Oaks Ticket Packet
Travel or hospitality companies bundle Oaks tickets into hotel and tour packages that lower the overall ticket price.
Seek Group Rates
Groups of 12+ people can often get group discounts on blocks of tickets bought together.
Buy Early
Buying Kentucky Oaks tickets many months in advance almost always provides the lowest prices.
Consider Standing Room Only
Standing room tickets let you into the track infield for a small fee, then find an open spot to watch the races.
Are Kentucky Oaks Tickets Refundable?
Kentucky Oaks tickets are refundable and exchangeable in most cases with some restrictions:
Standard Tickets
Most standard Kentucky Oaks tickets are refundable up to 30 days before the event. A refund fee of 10-25% of the order may apply.
Premier Tickets
Upgraded experiences like box seats or suites have different refund policies. Check with the specific package.
Weather Cancellations
If the Kentucky Oaks races are completely cancelled due to weather, all tickets are fully refunded.
Named Storm Cancellations
Tickets are refunded minus a 50% cancellation fee if a named storm (hurricane, etc) forces cancellation.
Rescheduling
In rare cases when the event is rescheduled, tickets can either be refunded or transferred to the new date.
In summary, standard Kentucky Oaks tickets are refundable up to a month out. But premium tickets/packages may have stricter policies. Check with the original ticket source for the exact terms.
Can You Sell Kentucky Oaks Tickets?
There are a few avenues for safely selling extra Kentucky Oaks tickets:
Ticket Resale Sites
You can re-list unwanted Oaks tickets on trusted resale marketplaces like VividSeats, StubHub or SeatGeek. Sellers do pay commission fees to the sites.
Online Classifieds
Options like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace allow posting Oaks tickets for local buyers. Be very wary of scams on these platforms.
In Person
For last minute cash sales, you may be able to find buyers around the Churchill Downs premises leading up to race day. Use caution with street transactions.
Kentucky Oaks Ticket Office
Churchill Downs permits the exchange of tickets through its ticket windows if you are unable to attend. An exchange fee may apply in this case.
When reselling Oaks tickets, be extremely careful not to get scammed online or fall victim to counterfeit tickets that won’t scan at the gate. Legitimate ticket resale sites offer buyer guarantees but charge higher fees.
Other Kentucky Oaks Week Events
In addition to the main Kentucky Oaks race, there are several surrounding events that draw big crowds:
Thurby
Thurby is a popular party day combining “Thursday” and “Derby”. It unofficially kicks off Oaks weekend with live music, bourbon tastings, celebrity appearances and more on the infield.
Dawn at the Downs
Early risers can enjoy breakfast, coffee and trackside views at Dawn at the Downs early on Oaks morning before the races.
Jockey Meet & Greets
Fans can meet jockeys who will be racing in the Kentucky Oaks and get autographs during scheduled appearances.
Taste of Derby
This huge food and drink celebration spans all of Derby week with special events, celebrity chefs and restaurants showcasing Kentucky cuisine and bourbon.
Oaks Race Post Positions Selection
The post position draw event happens live a few days before the race, setting the all-important starting gate order.
Oaks Gala
This black tie charity event features dining, dancing and auctioning for horse racing causes on the eve of Oaks day.
Kentucky Derby Museum
The museum offers exhibits exploring the history of horse racing in Kentucky throughout Derby week and beyond.
Conclusion
The Kentucky Oaks offers a full day of excitement and entertainment for racing fans during its springtime running at Churchill Downs. While the premier seats carry high demand and premium pricing, more budget-friendly tickets can still be found for general admission, the infield or grandstands through early planning and smart shopping. Experiencing the pageantry, fashion and thrilling live action of top thoroughbreds at the Oaks is a memorable bucket list sporting event.