Kick off Kentucky Derby Week in style as Churchill Downs partners with the Fund for the Arts to combine the Thrill of Racing and the Best of Louisville Arts. Throughout this premier evening of live racing, actors, dancers, musicians, visual artists and more will perform throughout the track. The night will also feature the inaugural Awards in the Arts, a partnership between the Fund for the Arts and the Jennifer Lawrence Foundation, recognizing the best in the Louisville arts scene.

A portion of the proceeds from Opening Night will benefit the Fund for the Arts & guests can contribute directly through on-site donation stations.

Performances for the evening include: Ashley Brossart; CirqueLouis; David O. Schuster; La'Nita Rocknette School of Dance; Deccan Divas; Jo Ross; KMAC Couture; Kentucky Shakespeare; Louisville Leopard Percussionists; Louisville Orchestra; Louisville Youth Choir; Matt McDole + Revelry Gallery; Randell Madden, Susan Howe and Judy Rogers with Mudpies Studio; Rose Flowers; Tiffany Carbonneau + Susanna Crum; Your Friendly Neighborhood Big Band

Gates open at 5:00 p.m., the first live race is at 6:00 p.m., and admission is just $10. Reserved seating starts at $20.

Race Day Information

Admission includes 1 racing program**.


General Admission & First Floor Seating$10.00
Reserved Seating$20.00
Reserved Dining*$70.00
Gates Open5:00pm
Race 16:00pm
Race 26:28pm
Race 36:56pm
Race 47:26pm
Race 57:57pm
Race 68:30pm
Race 79:05pm
Race 89:39pm
Race 910:11pm
Race 1010:42pm
Race 1111:10pm

* Pricing based on what dining rooms are initially available for regular race days.
** Complimentary racing program available at entry gates while supplies last.