Opening Night

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The Great Gatsby, A Louisville Legacy

Saturday, April 26, 2025 | Gates Open: 4:00 p.m. | First Race: 5:00 p.m.

Celebrate the 151st Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks post-position draws, with a lavish twist, as we channel the spirit of the roaring twenties with a Great Gatsby-inspired evening. As the inspiration for one of literature's most enchanting stories, our city's charm and history add a layer of allure to this glamorous tale. Dress in your finest 1920s attire and join us for a night that sets the stage for a week filled with excitement, tradition, and celebration!

Tickets: Buy Now > | Suites Packages: Buy Now > | Dining Packages: Buy Now>

EVENT DAY DETAILS

Opening Night | Saturday, April 26

Gates Open 4 p.m. | First Race 5 p.m.
Dining Room Guests Chef's Table 4-8 p.m. See All-Inclusive dining options below.

What to Wear: View More fashion tips >

Additional Information:

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EVENT DAY HIGHLIGHTS

2025 Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks Post Position Draw Presented by Ford

(Location: Second Floor Terrace / Time: 7:00pm)

• Join us in a moment of sheer anticipation as your favorite horses and their connections discover their positions for the Derby and Oaks. Don't miss this historic opportunity to witness the thrill of the draw amidst the glamour of the 1920s. Be part of the excitement, the tradition, and the legacy!

The Great Gatsby Experience brought to you by Louisville Tourism

Immerse yourself in the roaring twenties at The Fitzgerald Experience, where the eloquence of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby meets the historic charm of Louisville.

• Discover the enchanting connection between Louisville and 'The Great Gatsby' at the Louisville Tourism Traveling Exhibit. Let Daisy Buchanan be your guide as she narrates tales of opulence and ambition that link our city to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless novel.
• Step aboard the Belle of Louisville for an event experience that transports you into the glamorous world of 'The Great Gatsby.' This historic steamboat, an emblem of Louisville's rich heritage, offers a unique setting that echoes the opulence and splendor of the Roaring Twenties. Enhance your journey back in time with the presence of a flapper who will bring the era to life with her dazzling attire and spirited dance moves, and a historian who will share fascinating insights into the cultural significance of the 1920s in Louisville.
• As part of The Great Gatsby Experience, the Louisville Botanical Gardens introduces a captivating floral dimension to the event's opulent atmosphere. Integrating seamlessly with the elegance of the Fitzgerald Experience and the historical resonance of the Belle of Louisville, our floral activation will adorn these iconic settings with a luxurious array of blooms that celebrate the grandeur of the Roaring Twenties.
• Step back into the golden age of racing as the Kentucky Derby Museum highlights genuine Derby artifacts from the 1920s.

LG&E Mirror Ball Activation

• Step into the spotlight! Experience the glamour and glitz of a golden era as you pose with our spectacular gold mirror ball. This dazzling installation, inspired by the opulence of the Great Gatsby, casts a golden glow, creating the perfect backdrop for your photos.

The Great Gatsby Cocktail (available at select locations)

• A timeless tribute to the elegance and allure of the Jazz Age, The Great Gatsby combines smooth Old Forester with the tart refreshment of lemonade, finished with a splash of Chambord for a rich raspberry twist. This cocktail delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and sophistication, just like the roaring 1920s. Sip it slowly and savor the glamour of the era!

Style Under the Spires: Derby Week Fashion Contest

• Step back in time and dive into the elegance of the 1920s with our Great Gatsby-inspired fashion contest! This glamorous event invites participants to showcase their best flapper dresses, dapper suits, and sparkling accessories that embody the opulence and style of the Jazz Age. Whether it's the lavish beading, feathered headbands, or the iconic cloche hats, each ensemble should reflect the extravagant fashion trends that F. Scott Fitzgerald vividly described in his literary masterpiece. Join us for a dazzling display of 1920s fashion and let the best-dressed Gatsby look win! Entry details coming soon!
• Location: Great Gatsby Experience located to the right of the Paddock Gate
• Time: Between races 7 and 8

ALL-INCLUSIVE SEATING OPTIONS

Many Premium Dining, Suites and Reserved Seating options for Derby Week 2025 are all-inclusive of food, alcoholic beverage, and non-alcoholic beverage. Our All-Inclusive Seating Options below include a 4-hour Chef’s Table buffet and a Gates-to-Last-Call Bar Package.

All-Inclusive tickets for Opening Night include:

Dining:

Suites:

Reserved:

*All dining, suites and reserved seating options are subject to availability. Food and beverage service begins at Gates Open time and runs until time listed.

Other select Dining Rooms not listed here include a 4-hour Chef’s table and non-alcoholic beverage options only.

PARKING INFORMATION

To be announced!

<!--For Derby Week events, excluding Dawn at the Downs, Kentucky Derby, and Kentucky Oaks, parking is available for purchase through Ticketmaster. Please note that onsite parking at Churchill Downs is extremely limited. As an alternative, parking at the Kentucky Exposition Center is included with your ticket for each individual Derby Week day. It is essential to pre-purchase any onsite parking before April 15th. Upon purchase, your parking pass will be mailed to the address on file via UPS prior to the event. Please be aware that no additional onsite parking will be sold after this date, as complimentary parking and shuttle services are provided at the Kentucky Exposition Center.

Entry to your specific lot is unique and directions to your lot should be followed closely.-->

Maps and Directions can be found here:

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