Churchill Downs Expands 2026 Kentucky Derby Week Schedule
- Miami Living AI
- 28 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Churchill Downs has unveiled an expanded 2026 Kentucky Derby Week and Spring Meet schedule, adding more race days, the return of Sunday racing to Derby Week for the first time since 2010, and an enhanced slate of community and fan-focused events leading up to the 152nd Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks.
Opening Day Details
Opening Day, powered by LG&E/KU, will take place on Saturday, April 25, and will serve as a family-friendly launch to Kentucky Derby Week. The day will feature a community-focused program and the official post-position draws for the 152nd Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks.
For 2026, finishers of the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and Mini Marathon will receive free admission to Opening Day if they wear their race medals, adding an incentive for local and visiting runners to participate in track festivities.
Sunday Racing Returns
Sunday Funday will be introduced on Sunday, April 26, marking the return of Sunday racing to Kentucky Derby Week for the first time since 2010. The new race day is designed to give the community an additional opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere at Churchill Downs, including brunch options around the track and a relaxed, family-oriented setting.
Officials describe Sunday Funday as part of a broader effort to offer more touchpoints for fans to take in the sights, sounds and traditions associated with Derby Week.
502’sDay Community Focus
502’sDay is scheduled for Tuesday, April 28, and will return for its fourth year. The event is dedicated to celebrating what organizers describe as the heart of Louisville, with a spotlight on the local community.
General admission for 502’sDay will be priced at $5. Guests are encouraged to shop from Louisville’s local businesses and to wear outfits sourced from area shops and boutiques, reinforcing the day’s shop-local theme.
Winsday Charity Support
Winsday, presented by Resolute Racing, will take place on Wednesday, April 29. The midweek program is designed to highlight Louisville’s nonprofit sector and the work of local charitable organizations.
In partnership with the Community Foundation of Louisville, Churchill Downs will direct a portion of each ticket sold through participating nonprofit partners back to those agencies. Attendees who purchase tickets via partner organizations will directly support the selected nonprofits’ ongoing efforts.
Thurby Heritage Showcase
Thurby, presented by Old Forester, is set for Thursday, April 30, and will be staged in partnership with the Frazier History Museum. The day will emphasize Kentucky’s heritage through a mix of racing, music and cultural programming.
The event is positioned as a must-attend for attendees interested in history, music and racing, with programming intended to reflect Kentucky’s culture, spirited music traditions and long-standing racing history.
Weeklong Traditions
Organizers describe Kentucky Derby Week as rooted in tradition but elevated by new and refreshed experiences. The expanded schedule is designed to bring the community together on and off the track, with programming that encourages repeat visits throughout the week.
From Opening Day through Thurby and beyond, the focus remains on giving fans multiple opportunities to participate in Derby traditions, support local institutions and enjoy live racing in the lead-up to Derby and Oaks.
Spring Meet Highlights
In addition to Derby Week, Churchill Downs confirmed that several fan-favorite events will return during the 2026 Spring Meet. The lineup includes Mother’s Day, Downs After Dark, Family Adventure Day and Twilight Thursday programs.
Derby Tickets On Sale
Churchill Downs is promoting flexible payment options to help guests secure their spots. Buy tickets with buy now, pay later plans available for select offerings.
Attendees can choose from a variety of Derby Week experiences, ranging from general admission to premium seating and hospitality packages. Browse experiences online for more information about available options.