Churchill Downs Racing Schedule 2023

Introduction

For horse racing enthusiasts, there are few places more iconic than Churchill Downs. Known as the home of the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs hosts a variety of races throughout the year. If you are planning on attending any of these events, it is important to understand the Churchill Downs Racing Schedule for 2023.

Personal Experience

Last year, I had the opportunity to attend a few races at Churchill Downs. The energy and excitement of the events were palpable, and I was amazed at the sheer beauty and power of the horses. However, I quickly realized that navigating the schedule and understanding the different races and events could be overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help others make the most of their Churchill Downs experience.

List of Events

Churchill Downs hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Here are a few of the most notable:

• Opening Night – Saturday, April 29th
• Kentucky Derby – Saturday, May 6th
• Preakness Stakes – Saturday, May 20th
• Stephen Foster Handicap – Saturday, June 17th
• Bashford Manor Stakes – Saturday, July 1st
• Clark Handicap – Friday, November 24th

Detail Schedule Guide

To help plan your visit to Churchill Downs, here is a more detailed schedule guide for the 2023 racing season:

• April 29th – Opening Night
• May 4th – Thurby
• May 5th – Kentucky Oaks
• May 6th – Kentucky Derby
• May 11th – Twilight Thursday
• May 13th – Preakness Stakes
• May 18th – Twilight Thursday
• June 3rd – Belmont Stakes
• June 10th – Stephen Foster Handicap
• June 11th – Family Adventure Day
• June 15th – Twilight Thursday
• July 1st – Bashford Manor Stakes
• July 2nd – Family Adventure Day
• July 15th – Downs After Dark
• July 27th – Twilight Thursday
• August 12th – Downs After Dark
• August 24th – Twilight Thursday
• September 3rd – Family Adventure Day
• September 14th – Twilight Thursday
• October 1st – Family Adventure Day
• October 19th – Twilight Thursday
• November 4th – Breeders’ Cup World Championships
• November 24th – Clark Handicap

Schedule Table

For a more visual representation of the Churchill Downs Racing Schedule, here is a table of the events:

Question and Answer

Q: What is the Kentucky Derby?

A: The Kentucky Derby is a Grade I stakes race for three-year-old Thoroughbreds, held annually in Louisville, Kentucky on the first Saturday in May.

Q: What is Downs After Dark?

A: Downs After Dark is a unique nighttime racing experience at Churchill Downs that features live music, food, and drinks.

Q: How can I purchase tickets for Churchill Downs events?

A: Tickets can be purchased online at the Churchill Downs website or at the box office on the day of the event.

FAQs

Q: Is there a dress code for Churchill Downs events?

A: Yes, there is a dress code for certain areas of Churchill Downs. Most areas require business casual attire, while some areas require more formal dress.

Q: What time do the races typically start?

A: The first race of the day usually starts at around 12:45 pm, with subsequent races starting every 30 minutes to an hour.

Q: Are there any family-friendly events at Churchill Downs?

A: Yes, there are several family-friendly events throughout the year, including Family Adventure Day and other events geared towards children. In conclusion, attending a Churchill Downs event is an unforgettable experience for any horse racing enthusiast. By understanding the schedule and different events, you can make the most of your visit and create lasting memories.