The Kentucky Derby in 2020 took place on Saturday, September 5. This was a rescheduling from the original date in May due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For contrast, the Kentucky Derby traditionally takes place on the first Saturday in May. For example, the 2025 Kentucky Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 3, 2025. So, specifically for 2020, the Kentucky Derby was held on September 5 instead of the usual early May date.