Featured Events

Get out to the track for the thrills of live racing and the fun events at Churchill Downs.

Twilight Thursdays

Twilight Thursdays – September 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 September Meet!

Every Thursday from Thursday, September 11th to Thursday, September 25th

Twilight Thursdays at Churchill Downs

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.

Thursday, September 11th

College Day

College Day | Gates Open: TBD | First Race TBD

Experience College Day at the track! Get ready for an action-packed day filled with thrilling races, entertainment, and incredible opportunities to win scholarships. Plus, enjoy FREE admission and exclusive discounts at the Churchill Downs store with a valid college ID.

Saturday, September 13th

Senior Day

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!

Friday, September 19th
Wednesday, November 5th
Wednesday, November 19th

Family Adventure Day

Family Adventure Day | Gates Open 11:30 a.m. | First Race 12:45 p.m.

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.

Sunday, September 21st

Thoroughbred Aftercare Day

Thoroughbred Aftercare Day | Gates Open: TBD | First Race TBD

Join us for Thoroughbred Aftercare Day as we shine a spotlight on the organizations and efforts dedicated to the care, retraining, and rehoming of racehorses after their racing careers.

Enjoy a day at the races while learning about the meaningful work happening across the Thoroughbred community — a cause close to the heart of the sport.

Saturday, September 27th

Stakes Room Brunch

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 September and Fall Meet to enjoy brunch & live racing in the renovated Stakes Room.

Every Sunday from Sunday, September 14th to Sunday, September 28th

Trick or Treat at the Track

Family Adventure Day: Trick or Treat at the Track | Gates Open: TBD | First Race: TBD

Enjoy a thrilling day of racing under the iconic Twin Spires and over 15 kid-friendly activities. Suitable for children under 12, this event promises festive fun and delightful surprises for everyone!

Sunday, October 26th

Breeders’ Cup Watch Party

Breeders' Cup Watch Party | Gates Open: TBD | First Race: TBD

Watch the 2025 Breeders’ Cup World Championships on the Big Board while enjoying 10 live thoroughbred races every day.

Friday, October 31st
Saturday, November 1st

Veterans Day: Military Appreciation Day

Military Appreciation Day: Veterans Day | Gates Open: TBD | First Race: TBD

This Veterans Day, we celebrate and honor America’s service men and women for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to sacrifice for the common good. Active members and veterans of the military are invited to enjoy a day at the races.

Sunday, November 9th

Claiming Crown

Claiming Crown | Gates Open: TBD | First Race: TBD

Celebrate the heart and hustle of Thoroughbred racing at the 27th running of the Claiming Crown. This special event honors the sport’s hardest-working horses and offers thrilling, competitive racing with full fields and high-stakes action. With contenders from coast to coast and stories fans can truly connect with, it's a must-attend day for racing enthusiasts. Don’t miss your chance to witness the grit, glory, and greatness of the Claiming Crown!

Saturday, November 15th

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day | Gates Open: TBD | First Race: TBD

Celebrate Thanksgiving weekend at the track with 6 exciting Stakes races, including up and coming Kentucky Derby hopefuls.

Thursday, November 27th

The Clark

The Clark | Gates Open: TBD | First Race: TBD

Come out to the track for exciting live races including The Clark (GII) presented by Norton Healthcare.

Friday, November 28th

Stars of Tomorrow II

Stars of Tomorrow II | Gates Open: TBD | First Race: TBD

Enjoy a great day of racing including Kentucky Derby and Oaks points races and other key stakes!

Saturday, November 29th

Senior Day

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!

Friday, September 19th
Wednesday, November 5th
Wednesday, November 19th

Stakes Room Brunch

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 September and Fall Meet to enjoy brunch & live racing in the renovated Stakes Room.

Every Sunday from Sunday, September 14th to Sunday, September 28th

Official Kentucky Derby Store

Shop the latest 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.

Visiting Information

Learn more on what to expect during your visit to Churchill Downs.

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