Kentucky Derby week is one of the best times to experience live racing at Churchill Downs. Be a part of the excitement at Thurby as racing returns under the Twin Spires and Kentucky Derby and Oaks contenders visit the Paddock to take a look around before the big day.  

Ben Sollee will host the Kentucky Legends variety show including local and regional actors, musicians and cultural ambassadors

  • Musical performance by Kentucky Native
  • Musical performance by James Lindsey
  • Musical performance by Scott Smith
  • Musical performance by Amyshyst Kiah
  • Old Forester's Master Bourbon Specialist- Jackie Zykan
  • Churchill Downs Executive Chef -David Danielson

Enjoy 11 thrilling thoroughbred races including the Kentucky Juvenile Stakes (Listed) and Opening Verse Overnight Stakes.

Enter to WIN the Thurby Classic Sweepstakes for your chance to win a box for 6 to the 2018 Kentucky Derby and Oaks

Buy a Thurby 50/50 Ticket for a chance to win.  You can purchase online at Derbygives.com.

View menu options for tickets which include dining.

Tickets start at $20 for general admission access to the Paddock area, the Plaza, and the First Floor Grandstand.

If you do not see the tickets you were looking for online, please call the sales department at 502-636-4450 for additional dining options.

You can also see Kentucky Derby and Oaks contenders at Dawn at the Downs. Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet, and join in on a popular tradition for both Louisvillians and visitors, as you watch the contenders morning workouts before the big race. Click here to purchase Dawn at the Downs tickets.

Race Day Information

Admission includes 1 racing program.


General Admission$20
Reserved Seating$43
Reserved Dining$83
Gates Open11:00AM
Race 112:46pm
Race 21:15pm
Race 31:47pm
Race 42:19pm
Race 52:53pm
Race 63:27pm
Race 74:03pm
Race 84:39pm
Race 95:12pm
Race 105:48pm
Race 116:17pm

* Complimentary racing program available at entry gates while supplies last.