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With more than 70 plus live racing days throughout the year, check out all opportunities you have to watch the thrills of live racing. Plus, opportunities to get tours of the facility, watch horse racing via simulcast or bet at our Race & Sports Book.
May 2025
Live RacingStakes racingSimulcastDerby Museum ToursFeatured Events
Thurby x Frazier History Museum: Celebrating Cool Kentucky
Thursday, May 1, 2025 | Gates Open: 10:30 a.m. | First Race 12:45 p.m.
Presented by Old Forester and in partnership with Frazier History Museum, the venue transforms into a vibrant display of the state's rich heritage. Delve into Kentucky's storied past and lively present with engaging photo ops and experiences that capture the essence of our rich culture. A must-attend for history buffs, music lovers, and racing enthusiasts alike, this event encapsulates Kentucky's spirited music, deep-rooted traditions, and vibrant atmosphere.
Join us for a day immersed in the true spirit of the Bluegrass State.
Experience the essence of Kentucky at Thurby's 'Cool Kentucky', a vibrant celebration of bourbon, music, and thoroughbred racing.
The Longines Kentucky Oaks, now celebrating its 151st running, is America’s premier race for 3-year-old fillies. Held each year the day before the Kentucky Derby, the Oaks offers a $1.5 million purse and awards the winner the iconic 'Lilies for the Fillies' garland. As one of the longest-running sporting events in U.S. history, the Oaks is steeped in tradition and meaning. Oaks Day is also a celebration of breast cancer awareness, with fans embracing the 'Pink Out' tradition by wearing shades of pink to honor this meaningful cause.
No other entertainment event is as alluring, captivating, and thrilling as the Kentucky Derby. Call it what you will—the Run for the Roses®, the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®, or America's Race. This year marks the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby, presented by Woodford Reserve, the first leg of the Triple Crown. More than just a horse race, it’s a tradition steeped in history and held in the heart of America. It’s a way of life, representing the hopes and dreams of millions across the globe.
Twilight Thursdays – Spring Meet | Gates Open 4 p.m. | First Race 5 p.m.
Twilight Thursdays return with Thoroughbred racing, $2 select domestic beer, live music and an array of locally popular food trucks in the Paddock Plaza each Thursday of the Spring Meet!
Mother's Day | Gates Open 11:30 a.m. | First Race 12:45 p.m. | Chef's Tables TBD
This Mother's Day, go beyond the ordinary and spoil Mom with a day full of thrills! Create cherished memories with Mom that will last a lifetime. It's a celebration fit for the queen she is!
Twilight Thursdays – Spring Meet | Gates Open 4 p.m. | First Race 5 p.m.
Twilight Thursdays return with Thoroughbred racing, $2 select domestic beer, live music and an array of locally popular food trucks in the Paddock Plaza each Thursday of the Spring Meet!
Downs After Dark: 90's Nostalgia | Gates Open 5 p.m. | First Race 6 p.m.
Get ready for an electrifying night of horse racing as the sun sets and the track comes alive with excitement! Downs After Dark is your ticket to an unforgettable evening filled with thrilling races under the dazzling lights. Learn More!
Stakes Room Brunch | Gates Open 11:30 a.m. | First Post 12:45 p.m. | Chef's Table: TBD
Come out to the track every Sunday during the Spring, September or Fall Meet to enjoy brunch & live racing in the renovated Stakes Room.
Twilight Thursdays – Spring Meet | Gates Open 4 p.m. | First Race 5 p.m.
Twilight Thursdays return with Thoroughbred racing, $2 select domestic beer, live music and an array of locally popular food trucks in the Paddock Plaza each Thursday of the Spring Meet!
Senior Day | Gates Open 11:30 a.m. | First Race 12:45 p.m. | Chef's Table TBD
Come out to the track to watch exciting live thoroughbred racing. On Senior Day, Churchill Downs invites guests 60 and older to enjoy lunch on Millionaires' Row for only $45. Learn more!
Stakes Room Brunch | Gates Open 11:30 a.m. | First Post 12:45 p.m. | Chef's Table: TBD
Come out to the track every Sunday during the Spring, September or Fall Meet to enjoy brunch & live racing in the renovated Stakes Room.
Military Appreciation Day: Memorial Day | Monday, May 26 | Gates Open 11:30 a.m. | First Race 12:45 p.m.
Military Appreciation Day: Flag Day | Saturday, June 14 | Gates Open 11:30 a.m. | First Race 12:45 p.m.
It’s Military Appreciation Day at the track, a day filled with gratitude, remembrance, and thrilling horse racing action.
Active-Duty Military or Retired Veterans receive free admission with their Military ID
Twilight Thursdays – Spring Meet | Gates Open 4 p.m. | First Race 5 p.m.
Twilight Thursdays return with Thoroughbred racing, $2 select domestic beer, live music and an array of locally popular food trucks in the Paddock Plaza each Thursday of the Spring Meet!
Stephen Foster Preview Day | Saturday, May 31 | Gates Open 11:30 a.m. | First Race 12:45 p.m.
A day filled with excitement as the thoroughbreds compete in six thrilling stakes races that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Feel the adrenaline, witness the skill, and be part of the racing action that promises to deliver unforgettable moments.
Official Kentucky Derby Collection
Shop the latest Kentucky Derby fashions, collectibles, and more!
Visiting Information
Get ready for your visit to historic Churchill Downs with helpful tips and event information.
Featured Events
Get out to the track for the thrills of live racing and the fun events at Churchill Downs.
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Kentucky Derby Seating Experiences
Experience the all new Starting Gate Pavilion for Thurby, The Kentucky Oaks, or The Kentucky Derby!
For tickets, you can give us a call at 502-636-4447 or click on the button below to get connected to one of our team members.