September Meet

Twilight Thursdays – September Meet | Gates Open 4 p.m. | First Race 5 p.m.

Twilight Thursdays are leveling up in September! The party moves to the 2nd Floor Paddock Terrace, where you'll enjoy incredible views of the paddock while taking in al l the excitement of live Thoroughbred racing. Sip on $8 select cocktails, savor expanded food offerings, and don't miss the biggest new deal of the season $2 select domestic beer now available at all General Admission concessions bars! Twilight Thursdays at Churchill Downs are your destination for great racing, unbeatable drink specials, and an electric atmosphere every Thursday night.

First Responders Day | Friday, September 11 | Gates Open: 11:30 AM |  First Race: 12:45 PM

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.

Before the roses. Before the lilies. Before the first Saturday in May, the road begins under the Twin Spires.

On Saturday, September 12, Churchill Downs opens an important new chapter on the road to the 2027 Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks with two early-season stakes for promising 2-year-olds. The Iroquois Stakes offers points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby, while the Pocahontas Stakes offers points on the Road to the Kentucky Oaks.

Senior Day | Gates Open: 11:30 AM |  First Race: 12:45 PM | 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 $50. Learn more!

Downs After Dark | 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 Race 12:45 p.m. | Chef's Table 11:30 a.m.

Come out to the track every Sunday during the September and Fall Meet to enjoy brunch & live racing in the renovated Stakes Room.