LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Horse racing fans will be able to return to Churchill Downs in Louisville for the first time year, starting Sunday, October 25.
The popular 24-day fall meet covers five weeks every Wednesday-Sunday through Nov. 29, except for Friday, Nov. 6 and Saturday, Nov. 7 when the Breeders’ Cup World Championships return to Keeneland.
The Fall Meet kicks off in style Sunday with the 16th annual “Stars of Tomorrow I” program, which is entirely devoted to hopeful 2-year-old stars that have aspirations of trailblazing their way to next year’s Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve (GI) and Longines Kentucky Oaks (GI).
Sunday’s Fall Meet opener will mark the first time this year that spectators can return to Churchill Downs for live racing.
In 2019, the average daily attendance during the Fall Meet was 4,200 guests, and less spectators are expected this year.
Churchill Downs plans to continue following the COVID-19 health and safety protocols for Venues and Events as mandated by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Temperature checks, medical questionnaires, physical distancing and mandatory face coverings will be required upon entrance and movement within Churchill Downs.
Reserved outdoor box seats as well as select indoor premium areas will be open with proper social distancing at limited capacity per the state’s requirements for venues and event spaces.
Information on Churchill Downs’ COVID-19 health and safety guidelines and details about Sunday’s 11-race opening day card can be found online.