Of course, it’s not just a race. Call it a runway for the refined ones or a gathering where the grandeur of tradition meets the glamor of today. The Kentucky Derby is merely a sporting spectacle but also an invitation that calls for the bold hats, rare bourbons, and bespoke suits at Churchill Downs. “The Kentucky Derby is not only a stakes race but also an iconic American institution and an elegant celebration of our culture, customs, and unwavering competitive spirit,” the US President, Donald Trump, reflected.
While the whispered conversations in private suites just add like a cherry on top of the cake, the whole time, the event serves as the beacon for America’s most elite crowd. And for this air too, the air carries an even sharper scent of exclusivity—where fortunes are wagered and fashion is paraded. Because here the presence of the great ones alone speaks volumes. Why? Because it’s Kentucky Derby 2025!
Is Donald Trump coming to Kentucky Derby 2025?
Well, the event does capture the speculation around President Donald Trump’s attendance at the 151st Kentucky Derby. After all, he’s no stranger to high-stakes finishes and roaring crowds. Didn’t get it? Recall the boxing night championships and those iconic Super Bowl moments, where Trump maintained a visible presence, even during his second term in office. And not so long back, perhaps just this past February, he turned heads at Super Bowl 59 watching the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Kansas City Chiefs before exiting at halftime! Now this marked the first time a sitting president attended one of America’s biggest sporting stages, further fueling the narrative towards the Kentucky Derby with one burning question—will the president make another surprise appearance?
Even though the buzz surrounding a potential Derby visit isn’t unfounded, it is likely that the president might show up. Because Kentucky has long been a political stronghold for Trump. But that’s not the only way to link the president’s connection with Derby because there’s more to the context. To say that Trump is no newcomer to Churchill Down. While attending the race back in 2022, he was spotted at a high-profile fundraiser hosted by the MAGA Again super PAC. And that’s not the only appearance because it was in 1999 too, when Trump attended the Derby with his wife, Melania Trump.
Then – Donald Trump and girlfriend Melania Knauss, attending the 1999 Kentucky Derby.
Now – The greatest President and First Lady in history. pic.twitter.com/Xg7y98U3uO
— gary (@gary37h) May 3, 2025
But since there’s no official word confirming his attendance at the 151st running, there’s no 100% assurance that claims his presence. Even the White House declined to offer a definitive answer too when asked about the same. Instead, the President released a statement on the morning of the event—sending a message that struck a tone of patriotic nostalgia. “Today, as we enjoy the venerated springtime tradition of the Kentucky Derby, my administration pledges to continue the work of reforming our country, reharnessing our heritage, and reigniting all our greatness and glory,” the president quoted while briefly talking about the historical relevance of the event that shaped modern-day America.
Whether or not he steps into Churchill Downs this time, his influence is already felt, and the message sent is clear—“I send my best wishes for a safe and successful Kentucky Derby. May God bless you, and may He continue to bless the United States of America. May the best horse win,” he further stated. Despite his presence being unknown to many, here’s the thing that’s pretty much certain—Derby has always been about more than just the race. It’s a cultural celebration that invites the whole of America!
The Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala!
Talk about one event that effortlessly fuses Hollywood glamour with Southern charm, and it’s the Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala! Held at the home of Patricia Barnstable Brown in Louisville’s Highlands neighborhood, the 2025 edition, or let’s say the pre-Derby celebration, was nothing short of dazzling and thrilling. To say that this wasn’t any average Derby weekend gathering. Why? Because the Olympic legend Simone Biles, alongside comedy king Tracy Morgan, country heartthrob Dierks Bentley, and Super Bowl champion Aaron Rodgers, and the list goes on—turned heads on arrival!
And what’s a good party without music, especially one that revolves around the tradition? Well, with a backyard transformed into a concert venue, the night just turned into a spontaneous music festival with Jordan Smith, Lee Brice, Sean Stockman of Boyz II Men, and country star Brantley Gilbert on stage. Even NSYNC’s Joey Fatone brought the house down with his version of “Basket Case.” Could there be a more priceless moment? Not in the countryside, though.
Because the Barnstable Brown Gala wasn’t about the glitz and star sightings only, it was a celebration with purpose. And now that we move ahead in its 36th year, the event has been named as the “Top 10 Parties in the World” by Condé Nast! And not only this, it also raised over $21 million for diabetes research that will support the Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center at the University of Kentucky. And Tracy Morgan, who lives with diabetes, spoke to the cause with a heartfelt message—“I know what it’s like to have highs and lows.” To say that this gala was the one where celebrities met for a cause as well as the Kentucky Derby weekend came alive.
Which stars will steal the spotlight at the Kentucky Derby this year?
From singers to actors and athletes to comedians, the list isn’t ending. Throwing back to the 2024 edition, the event attracted sitcom stars to late-night legends, like the Canadian actor Stephen Amell, alongside The Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon, who just brought his signature energy as part of a partnership with Ford, drawing cheers from fans along the way! While other notables included actress Holly Robinson Peete, effortlessly balancing her glamor and grace at both events. And Cheryl Ladd and Gina Torres? They simply added a humorous touch while playfully blaming the strength of the mint juleps!
And the sports world was in full force, proving that the Kentucky Derby isn’t just for racehorses but for champions across all fields. Saying that there was the Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce, keeping the energy high with the WNBA legend Lisa Leslie, who brought Olympic gold to Churchill Downs! And for the NFL veterans like Aaron Rodgers, Emmitt Smith, A.J. Hawk, and Jameis Winston, it was mostly like a reunion with fans and fellow stars.
I love Trump’s message on the Kentucky Derby, debatably America’s most iconic sports event. pic.twitter.com/2qnCoYmgsC
— Brent Scher (@BrentScher) May 3, 2025
Also, the soundtrack of the 2024 Kentucky Derby weekend was an all-star playlist in motion with country singers like Billy Gilman, Thomas Rhett, Randy Travis, and Travis Tritt on stage who brought Southern soul to life! While on the other side was Bruno Mars turning up the heat with a headline performance at the Trifecta Gala. For the melodious woman’s iconic voice, it was Wynonna Judd who delivered a memorable rendition of the National Anthem that resonated through Churchill Downs. But Mickey Guyton, with his mix of elegance and powerhouse vocals, just added more glam to the night already shining.
But the event awaited entities beyond the stage and field. To say that there were powerhouse women in fashion and business who made their presence known. Starting from Tina Knowles, the fashion-savvy mother of Beyoncé, it was Martha Stewart, both adding elegance to the Barnstable Brown Gala and the Derby itself. Well, they reminded the fans and spectators that Derby is for style, culture, and stories that surround the spectacle.
Hence, with the 151st Kentucky Derby approaching, the red carpet now remains rolled out for surprises, glam, and some unforgettable moments. Because hey, the glittering memories of 2024 are still fresh, and one can only imagine who might just step out in style this year!
The post Will President Donald Trump Attend the 2025 Kentucky Derby? All the Celebs to Look Out for at Churchill Downs appeared first on EssentiallySports.
