LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- More change is coming to Kentucky Derby Week. In addition to shifting the Kentucky Oaks to a prime time post, Churchill Downs will add a Sunday racing card to its spring schedule, the first time in 16 years that Sunday racing has been part of Derby Week.
The seven-day slate will stretch from Saturday, April 25, through Derby Day on Saturday, May 2, with no racing on Monday, April 27.
The Spring Meet at Churchill Downs will run 44 race days from April 25 to June 28. Tickets for all Derby Week events go on sale Thursday at noon on their website.
Here’s how the newly expanded Derby Week shakes out:
Saturday, April 25 — Opening Day
After 14 years as a nighttime event, Opening Night becomes Opening Day, with a 12:45 p.m. post time. It will include the traditional post-position draw for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. The day will also welcome local runners. Anyone who finishes the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon or Mini Marathon that morning gets in free if they show their finisher’s medal.
Sunday, April 26 — Sunday Funday
Churchill hasn’t raced on this Sunday since 2010. This year, they’re bringing it back. Expect a typical early-week race card, but with brunch themes and a more relaxed atmosphere. It gives locals another shot to enjoy the Derby environment before the bigger crowds arrive later in the week.
Monday, April 27 — Dawn at the Downs
There’s no racing this Monday, but fans can show up early for Dawn at the Downs, which offers a chance to watch Derby and Oaks horses train during a special exclusive window between 7:15 and 7:30 a.m. Breakfast is available in reserved dining areas, but general viewing from the grandstand is open as well.
Also Monday morning, the Kentucky Derby Store at the Clubhouse Gate will be open to the public without a ticket. It’s a quiet but popular time for early shopping before the rest of the week picks up steam.
Tuesday, April 28 — 502’sDay
A nod to Louisville’s area code and local flavor. General admission is just $5. The day tends to draw local fans, especially those looking for a laid-back Derby Week experience without breaking the bank. Churchill is encouraging fans to “shop local” and wear outfits purchased from locally-based stores and boutiques.
Wednesday, April 29 — Winsday
Churchill teams up with local nonprofits to raise funds and awareness. A portion of ticket proceeds bought through participating groups will go directly to those organizations. The racing is standard mid-week fare, but the day has grown in popularity for those who want to support community causes.
Thursday, April 30 — Thurby
Now a full-blown tradition, the unofficial, “Louisville’s Day at the Races.” It features strong racing (often with several stakes), a big crowd, and plenty of pre-Derby celebration. This year, Churchill is leaning into Kentucky themes with a partnership from the Frazier History Museum. Vintage dress is encouraged.
Also Thursday night is Taste of Derby, a food and wine event held off-site at the Kentucky International Convention Center. It’s a ticketed culinary showcase that draws chefs from around the country.
Friday, May 1 — Kentucky Oaks (after dark)
This is the most dramatic schedule change. Instead of wrapping up in late afternoon, the Oaks will be run in the evening, with the 152nd running of the Oaks scheduled under the lights for the first time. The card will be condensed and shifted later to better capture a national primetime audience.
Saturday, May 2 — Kentucky Derby 152
No schedule changes here. The traditional Derby Day experience, from early arrivals in the infield to late-afternoon post time, remains in place. But for fans pacing themselves through the week, the extra Sunday and later Oaks night might change how they approach the lead-up.
Ticket Info:
General admission is $30 on Opening Day, Sunday, and Winsday; $50 for Thurby; and $5 for 502’sDay. Reserved seats and packages vary by date and section.
Tickets for Oaks and Derby days are available through KentuckyDerby.com and DerbyExperiences.com.
More Derby stories:
Louisville high school senior wins Kentucky Derby Museum's annual art competition
Early Kentucky Derby favorite Ted Noffey sidelined with bone bruising, off the Derby trail
Churchill Downs teams with Hallmark for new Derby-themed movie filmed at racetrack
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