Experience live Thoroughbred racing at Churchill Downs during the 2026 September and Fall Meet. From exciting evening racing to major stakes races and family-friendly events, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the racing season.
View the full Churchill Downs Racing Calendar for race dates, post times, stakes races and special events.
September Meet Highlights
September 10, 17 and 24
Gates Open: 4 p.m. | First Race: 5 p.m.
Enjoy Thursday evening racing at Churchill Downs during Twilight Thursdays. Guests can enjoy live racing, music and food throughout the evening.
Friday, September 11
Gates Open: 11:30 a.m. | First Race: 12:45 p.m.
Churchill Downs celebrates local first responders and their families with a day dedicated to recognizing their service and commitment to the community.
The Road Begins at Churchill Downs:
Saturday, September 12
September racing at Churchill Downs provides an early look at some of the young horses that could become future Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks contenders.
Iroquois Stakes:
The Iroquois Stakes features promising 2-year-old horses competing for qualifying points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby.
Pocahontas Stakes:
The Pocahontas Stakes puts 2-year-old fillies in the spotlight as they compete for qualifying points on the Road to the Kentucky Oaks.
These races offer fans an opportunity to discover emerging stars and follow their progress as the road to spring's biggest races begins.
Friday, September 18
Gates Open: 11:30 a.m. | First Race: 12:45 p.m.
Guests age 60 and older can enjoy a day of live Thoroughbred racing and special dining opportunities at Churchill Downs.
Downs After Dark: Oktoberfest:
Saturday, September 19
Gates Open: 5 p.m. | First Race: 6 p.m.
Experience live racing after sunset during Downs After Dark. Enjoy an evening of racing and entertainment as Churchill Downs comes alive under the lights.
Fall Meet
October 25 through November 29, 2026
The Churchill Downs Fall Meet features 24 days of Thoroughbred racing from late October through November. The meet includes major stakes races, exciting 2-year-old competition and special events for racing fans and families.
Major Stakes & Racing Events:
Friday, November 27
The historic Clark Stakes (Grade II) highlights the Fall Meet, bringing top older horses together for a major stakes race.
Thursday, November 26
Celebrate Thanksgiving at Churchill Downs with a special day of racing featuring six marquee stakes races.
Saturday, November 28
Stars of Tomorrow II features a race card exclusively for 2-year-old horses. The day highlights some of the sport's emerging talent and includes important prep races for horses beginning their journeys toward the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks.
Family Adventure Day: Trick-or-Treat at the Track:
Sunday, October 25
Gates Open: 12 p.m. | First Race: 1 p.m.
Bring the family to Churchill Downs for a Halloween-themed day at the races.
Children under 12 can enjoy more than 15 kid-friendly activity and candy stations, along with games, crafts and other surprises. Kids are encouraged to dress in their favorite costumes while enjoying live racing and family activities.
Activities continue through the conclusion of the last race.
Sunday, November 8
Churchill Downs honors active-duty military members and veterans with a special day recognizing their service and sacrifice.
Wednesday, November 4 and Wednesday, November 18
Guests age 60 and older can enjoy special dining opportunities and live racing during Senior Days.
Plan Your Visit:
Whether you're looking to watch the next generation of racing stars, enjoy a day with family or experience a major stakes event, the September and Fall Meets offer something for every racing fan.
For information about tickets, dining, parking, dress codes and other Churchill Downs visit details, please visit the official Churchill Downs website.