First Responders Day

First Responders Day

Thursday, September 11

Gates Open 4 p.m. |  First Race 5 p.m.

Churchill Downs is proud to celebrate the courage, commitment, and selfless service of our community’s first responders.

We welcome all first responders and their families to a day at the races with our heartfelt gratitude. From firefighters and police officers to EMTs, paramedics, and emergency dispatchers, this day is dedicated to those who stand on the front lines to protect and serve our communities every day.

First Responders Receive Complimentary/Discounted Tickets:

• As a token of our appreciation, we are offering free admission to all first responders who present their ID.
• First Responders can purchase discounted ($40) Millionaires Row
• To take advantage of this exclusive offer, please purchase your tickets by calling our Group Sales at 502-636-4450.

Ticket Options On-Sale Now:

Dining | Reserved Seating | General Admission | Suites Options

*All dining rooms are subject to availability and are opened based on demand.

Event Highlights:

• $2 select domestic beer (5:00pm– 8:00pm/The Paddock Bar)
• Live music on the Paddock Plaza Stage by Piper Madison
• Food Trucks: Con Aji y Cafe, Ramiros, Lil Cheezers, Drakes, HurriKanes

Celebrate our First Responders! Learn about the incredible work they do every day, snap a photo, and experience the excitement up close.

• Check out emergency vehicles from:
  • Louisville Metro Emergency Services
  • Alpha Event Medicine
• Stop by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Community Engagement Team table to learn about community programs, safety resources, and ways to get involved.
• Step inside the Norton Sports Health Jockey Care Center and learn more about the programs they offer to support jockey health and well-being.
• Learn About Fire Safety with the Louisville Fire Department Public Education Team

Presentation of Colors and National Anthem Performance (4:30 p.m.)

• Presentation of Colors by LMPD Color Guard

Special Recognition Moments:

• We are proud to honor extraordinary courage and service with a Special Recognition for the 2025 awardees: two Purple Heart recipients and thirteen Medal of Valor winners. These individuals embody the highest ideals of duty, sacrifice, and bravery, running toward danger to protect our community.
• We will honor the first responders who safeguard Churchill Downs each race day: the Norton Healthcare and Alpha Medicine teams. Their skill and compassion keep our guests and racing athletes safe.

Event Information:

Gates & Post Times:

First Responders Day | September 11 | Gates Open 4 p.m.

View Additional Event Information >

Travel & Parking

View the most up to date parking information for your day at the races here >