Yes, we know: EVERYONE within a hundred-mile radius of Louisville is familiar with the Kentucky Oaks, but just in case outsiders are tuning in, here’s a pertinent refresher encouraging them to join in the fun.
The Kentucky Oaks race is hosted annually in Louisville, Kentucky at Churchill Downs. The race dates back to 1875 when it was founded by Meriwether Lewis Clark, Jr., who also founded the Kentucky Derby, the Clark Handicap and the Falls City Handicap. Both the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby have been held at Churchill Downs since they were established and remain the oldest continuously run sporting events in American history. Each year, the Kentucky Oaks takes place the Friday before the Kentucky Derby.
In 2026, Derby Day falls on Saturday, May 2, placing Oaks Day on Friday, May 1.
Happily, Kegs & Eggs, which is reputed to have originated at the Highlands BoomBozz some years back, is on the festive morning party docket for its sixth annual “comeback” edition on Oaks Day, running from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., and providing an opportunity for “nutrition and nuance” during Derby Week.
The modern-era venue for Kegs & Eggs is Lou Lou on Market (812 East Market Street) in NuLu. There is no admission fee or cover charge for Kegs & Eggs, but reservations are highly recommended: 502.515.9699
A percentage of the food sales go to benefit APRON Inc., which provides financial relief to professional food and beverage industry workers in Louisville who work at locally owned establishments and are experiencing financial distress due to illness, injury, or other issues.
New this year, APRON Inc’s famous Wheel of Swag makes its Kegs & Eggs debut, spinning every half hour for a chance to win big prizes with a suggested donation, all supporting APRON Inc and its mission.
What you can expect at Kegs & Eggs:
- Cajun inspired food, drink, and music
- Beignets on the patio in the festive outdoor tent
- Creole Bloody Marys at the outside bar with Beckmann (photo right)
- Tunes by Slapstick Rehab
Special bar menu libations highlights for 2026:
- True Story Spiced Old Fashioned cocktails with chocolate-candied bacon
- Nutty by Nature – Goodwood Brewing & Spirits 2024 Amburana Barrel-Aged Walnut Brown (collaboration with RD1 Spirits)
- Hard Truth Coconut Rum – Cajun Ragin’ Glory cocktail
- Voodoo Punch and Hurricanes
- Guinness Interactive Surprise – a playful, can’t-miss experience built around everyone’s favorite stout
And, don’t forget: At Lou Lou on Market, live music...Read more
