There is no better way to kick off Derby Week in County Kildare than with a visit to the Racing Legends Museum, which officially opens its doors as part of this years festival, this Sunday, 21st June 2026, at 1.30pm in Kildare Courthouse.

Visitors are invited to join the celebrations and enjoy refreshments afterwards in the Silken Thomas, while exploring a unique attraction that pays tribute to Ireland’s rich horse racing heritage.

As the heart of Ireland’s Horse Country, County Kildare has so much to offer racing enthusiasts and visitors alike. Home to three outstanding racecourses, world-renowned stud farms, the Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens, and countless equestrian attractions, Kildare truly is Horse Country.

The Racing Legends Museum adds another exciting experience to the county’s tourism offering. The museum houses a fascinating collection of racing memorabilia, jockey silks, trophies, historic photographs, videos of legendary thoroughbred horses, and information on some of the most famous Irish Derby-winning jockeys throughout history.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet museum owner Jim Kavanagh, whose passion for racing and remarkable collection is matched only by the fantastic stories he loves to share about the sport and its legends.

A special highlight of the museum is the commemorative collection dedicated to Old Vic, the winner of the 1989 Irish Derby, ridden by legendary American jockey Steve Cauthen. First unveiled in 2022, this unique exhibition celebrates one of the most memorable horses in Irish racing history and offers visitors a chance to revisit a remarkable chapter in Derby folklore.

Free Admission

Entry to the Racing Legends Museum is completely free.

Opening Hours:

• Daily from 10 am to 3 pm

• Closed during the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival on 27^th – 28^th

Experience the Kildare Derby and Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival

Following the museum’s opening, visitors can continue their Derby Week celebrations at the Kildare Derby Festival in Kildare Town and the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival at The Curragh Racecourse, one of the highlights of Ireland’s sporting and social calendar. You can find all information of both events on www.intokildare.ie 

Friday, 26th June – Festival Kick-Off

The festival begins with a fantastic summer race evening, setting the stage for an exhilarating weekend of world-class racing.

A major highlight is the Corinthian Challenge Race, a unique event supporting the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund. Amateur riders take to the track with passion and purpose, raising funds for a cause that is close to the heart of the Irish racing community.

After racing, the celebrations continue in Champions Hall with live music from The Whistlin’ Donkeys. Famous for their energetic fusion of traditional Irish music and Celtic rock, the band promises a thunderous start to Derby weekend and a memorable evening of entertainment.

Saturday, 27th June – Spritz & Social

For racegoers seeking a relaxed yet stylish hospitality experience, Spritz & Social in the elegant Queen’s Room Marquee offers the perfect day out.

This contemporary social space combines comfort, great food, entertainment and racing action, with a lounge DJ, relaxed seating and a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day.

Guests can also compete for exciting spot prizes including:

• Best Turned Out Table

• Best Dressed Lady

• Best Dressed Gent

Winners will receive vouchers for The K Club, adding an extra touch of glamour to Derby Saturday.

The Spritz & Social package includes:

• Reserved parking

• Admission and reserved seating for the day

• Complimentary race card

• Buffet bites

• Two complimentary drinks per person (Prosecco, lager or soft drink)

• Tote betting at your table

• Full bar service

Bookings for eight guests or fewer will be accommodated at shared tables, creating a lively and sociable atmosphere.

Spritz & Social offers a chic, modern way to enjoy a day at the races — relaxed, upbeat and effortlessly stylish.

For more information and tickets, visit curragh.ie. Early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.

Whether you’re a lifelong racing fan, a visitor exploring Horse Country, or simply looking for a great day out, the opening of the Racing Legends Museum and the excitement of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival make County Kildare the place to be this June.