Downs After Dark

Downs After Dark: A Caribbean Night at the Races

Saturday June 21 | Gates Open 5 p.m. |  First Race 6 p.m.

Escape to “A Caribbean Night at the Races” at Churchill Downs, where the thrill of live horse racing meets the vibrant spirit of the islands. Sway to the rhythm, soak in the tropical vibes, and let the summer breeze carry you away!

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Plaza Loge Passport Experience: $99/ticket

Each package includes the following for 4 (B Row) or 6 (A row) guests in a Plaza Loge:

• Plaza Loge seating overlooking the newly renovated Paddock
• Exclusive Plaza Passport Lanyard
• Caribbean Grazing Board for the table
• Your choice of 1 Signature Old Fashioned: Rum, Chocolate or Smoked Double Oaked
• Cigar Rolling Demonstration + Your choice of 1 Cigar (to be redeemed from cigar vendor table near bar)
• Your choice of Custom Caribbean Airbrush Hat by Bluegrass Airbrush (redeemable at ITW. SKIP THE LINEaccess included!)
• Covered box seating for race viewing (321 Rows J & K)
• Note: The package is not available for resale.

Buy Plaza Loge Passport >

Additional Ticket Packages:

Dining Packages > | Suites Packages >

Event Details:

What to Wear: For Caribbean Night at the Races, we’re inviting guests to dress the part with bright colors, breezy fabrics, and bold accessories. Think flowy dresses, fun prints, and statement pieces that capture the spirit of the islands—elevated with Derby flair. Vibrant. Stylish. Unforgettable.

Stage Lineup:

• 5:00pm Ben Bernhard is bringing the island vibes with all your favorite Jimmy Buffett hits — the perfect soundtrack to kick off our beachy bash!
• 8:00pm DJ Brandon Lee: From sand to stage, DJ Brandon Lee is bringing the coastal country soundtrack — think Kenny Chesney, Zac Brown Band, and all the feel-good summer jams, perfect for a laid-back night under the stars!

Event Highlights:

• See Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel: Watch the famous waterskiing squirrel, Twiggy, perform in three exciting shows throughout the evening. Watch in awe as Twiggy zooms across the water on her tiny skis, performing impressive tricks and stunts. (Show Times: 5:51pm, 7:49pm and 10:02pm/Location: Plaza)
• Dance Lessons with Cari’Fete Afro-Caribbean Dance Movement: Learn how to move with the rhythm of the islands! Cari’Fete will guide you through Belizean and Afro-Caribbean-inspired dance steps to get you ready to dance the night away. No experience needed—just bring your energy and island spirit! (Times: 6:20pm and 7:18pm/Location: Plaza)
• Airbrush Station by Bluegrass Airbrush: You asked, we listened! Our Airbrush Station is back and better than ever—grab a Caribbean inspired design and show off your Caribbean Night style with bold colors and tropical flair. First come, first served… don’t miss out! (Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm or until supplies last/ Location: Second Floor Concessions)
• Sunset Send–off: Cap off the night in unforgettable island style with our Sunset Send-Off! Gather around for a mesmerizing performance featuring fire dancers, stilt walkers and hula hoop artists—blending heat, rhythm, and movement as the sun sets on Caribbean Night at the Races.
  • Stilt Walkers: 8:30pm – 9:00pm and 9:30pm – 10:00pm
  • Fire Performance Times: 9:00pm – 9:15pm and 9:30pm – 9:45pm
• Catch our roaming photo booth: strike a pose for your Postcard from Paradise! Smile big… you're on island time! (6:30pm – 9:30pm)
• “Beachside” Limbo Contest: Show off your flexibility island-style! Whether you're in it to win it or just for fun, this tropical crowd favorite is sure to bring big laughs and even bigger energy. (Time: 8:20pm/Location: Paddock Terrace)

Big Board Highlights:

Test your knowledge with Caribbean Trivia on the big board! From legendary music and vibrant festivals to island culture and iconic moments, show off your expertise and celebrate the spirit of the Caribbean. Don’t miss your chance to join the fun and see how well you really know the islands that bring the vibes!

Stakes Races:

• THE CHICAGO

Event Information

Downs After Dark, Saturday | June 21 | Gates Open 5 p.m.

Prohibited Items

• Security screening will be required for all guests and horsemen. All bags will be inspected before entry.
• Outside alcohol, as well as food and beverages, is strictly prohibited. Please review our complete list of prohibited items.
• Wristbands Required for Alcohol: Be sure to have your ID checked and pick up a wristband to purchase alcoholic beverages. ID check and wristband stations will be located at the Paddock Gate, VIP Gate, and on the 2nd floor of the Clubhouse tower. Wristbands will be required for alcohol purchases at concession stands and bars on Downs After Dark.
• Cashless Concessions: All food and beverage vendors are cashless—credit/debit cards and mobile payments only.

Additional Information: 

• Cash is still king at the wagering windows.
• Don’t forget to pick up a Race Day program when you enter the gates. The program stands are located just inside each entry point.

View Additional Event Information >

Travel & Parking

• Free Onsite Parking: Complimentary parking is available in the Green, Orange, Blue, Yellow, and Turquoise Parking Lots.
• Rideshare: Rideshare drop-off is available at the Barbaro auto-court for the East side of the property (by the Kentucky Derby Museum) or the VIP Gate for the West side of the property.

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