COME TO THE TRACK

Plan your visit to historic Churchill Downs, the home of the Kentucky Derby.

FIRST TIME AT THE RACES?

Take our guided experience tour and learn more about planning your trip. Complete your check list to get ready to visit Churchill Downs!

DERBY WEEK & SPRING MEET TICKETS ON-SALE FEB 5

Derby Week Saturday, April 25 - Saturday, May 2

Opening Day | Saturday April 25, 2026

Opening Day centers around family-friendly fun for the entire community. Celebrate the 152nd Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks post-position draws. New for this year, Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and Mini Marathon finishers will receive free admission if they wear their medals to Opening Day. Wear your medal to the box office and receive a free general admission ticket. Guests are encouraged to coordinate their attire with their family members, friends or significant others.

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Sunday Funday | Sunday April 26, 2026

Sunday racing returns to Kentucky Derby Week for the first time since 2010, which gives the community an extra day to celebrate the seasonal fun with brunch options around the track.

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Dawn at the Downs Dining | Monday April 27, 2026

Dawn at the Downs is a cherished tradition for both Louisvillians and visitors alike. Racing fans gather to watch Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks contenders during their morning workouts, all while selecting their favorites for the weekend's races.

Thursday April 23rd-Wednesday April 29th
Time: 6:40 a.m.

Dawn at the Downs Dining
April 27th | 6:40 a.m.

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502'sDay | Tuesday April 28, 2026

502’sDay returns for its fourth year, shining the spotlight on what truly makes this city special – the community. General Admission is $5. Guests are encouraged to “Shop Local” and wear outfits from Louisville’s local shops and boutiques.
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Winsday | Wednesday April 29, 2026

In partnership with the Community Foundation of Louisville, local nonprofit organizations will be invited to fundraise and highlight the work they do to make Louisville a more vibrant place to live, work and play.  By purchasing Winsday tickets through a registered nonprofit, guests will directly contribute to these vital agencies, with a portion of each ticket sale benefiting their incredible work.
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Thurby | Thursday April 30, 2026

In partnership with the Frazier History Museum, Churchill Downs will transform 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.
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Kentucky Oaks | Friday May 1, 2026

The Longines Kentucky Oaks, now celebrating its 152nd 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.
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Kentucky Derby | Saturday May 2, 2026

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 152nd 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.

 

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Spring Meet Thursday, May 7 - Sunday, June 28

Twilight Thursdays | Every Thursday in May and June

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!

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Mother's Day | Sunday May 10, 2026

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!
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Downs After Dark | Saturday May 16 & Saturday June 20, 2026

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!
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Senior Day | Friday May 22 & Friday June 5, 2026

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.

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Military Appreciation Day | Monday May 25 & Sunday June 14, 2026

It’s Military Appreciation Day at the track, a day filled with gratitude, remembrance, and thrilling horse racing action. We proudly celebrate and honor America’s servicemen and women for their unwavering patriotism, dedication to our country, and sacrifice for the greater good.

Active-Duty Military or Retired Veterans receive free admission with their Military ID. Learn more

 

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Stephen Foster Preview Day | Saturday May 30, 2026

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.
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Teacher Appreciation Day | Thursday June 4 & 18, 2026

Come out to the track to watch exciting live thoroughbred racing. On Teacher Appreciation Day, Churchill Downs invites local educators to enjoy Millionaires' Row for only $45. Learn more!
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Belmont Stakes Watch and Wager | Saturday June 6, 2026

Watch the 2026 Belmont Stakes the Third Leg of the Triple Crown on the Big Board while enjoying 11 live thoroughbred races every day.
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Family Adventure Day | Sunday June 7, 2026

Family Adventure Day is the perfect event for everyone in the family to enjoy a fun-filled day under the iconic Twin Spires. Get ready for thrilling horse racing and a variety of over 15 kid-friendly activities. It’s a fantastic opportunity for children under 12 to explore and enjoy.

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Father's Day | Sunday June 21, 2026

Join us for Father's Day at Churchill Downs, where tradition meets excitement, and dads are celebrated in true racing style!
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Stephen Foster Day | Saturday June 27, 2026

A day filled with excitement as the thoroughbreds compete in 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.
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PLAN YOUR VISIT

What to Expect

We’ve curated helpful suggestions to make the most of your experience at Churchill Downs Racetrack.

Travel + Parking

Get directions and maps to historic Churchill Downs for your day of race experience or group outing.

Calendar

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.

Kentucky Derby Events

Churchill Downs is home to the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. Get event details and more information on Derby week race days.

The Official Kentucky Derby Collection

Shop the lastest Kentucky Derby fashions, collectibles and more!

Visit the Derby Museum

The Kentucky Derby Museum is one of the region’s premier attractions, celebrating the tradition, history, hospitality, and pride of the world-renowned event that is the Kentucky Derby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please find our helpful guide to experiencing Churchill Downs.

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