LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Breeders’ Cup and the Breeders’ Cup festival are just around the corner, and Lexington is taking steps to improve security and public safety downtown leading up to both events.

These measures include closing Henry A. Tandy Centennial Park an hour earlier at 2 a.m., along with improved lighting and signage at the location.

What You Need To Know

  • Henry A. Tandy Centennial Park will close an hour earlier during the Breeders' Cup festival

  • Lighting and signage in the park have been enhanced

  • More police will be present downtown

  • Breeders' Cup Festival will be Oct. 30 through Nov. 5

Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton highlighted these efforts in a recent press release saying, “We already have a lot of people downtown enjoying restaurants and other attractions, and we expect crowds to grow even larger for the Breeders’ Cup and the Breeders’ Cup Festival."

The Breeders’ Cup races are set for Nov. 4 and 5. The Breeders’ Cup Festival will be held Oct. 30 through Nov. 5.

Gorton explained the city has beefed up the footprint of law enforcement too. “More police and deputies from the Sheriff’s Office are present downtown, a request heard from business owners and the community at large. They have been especially helpful on weekends, and will be invaluable during the Breeders’ Cup Festival,” Gorton said.

Additionally, Mayor Gorton approved funding for police overtime during the Breeders’ Cup Festival in her FY23 budget, which was green-lighted by the Urban County Council.

The mayor also pointed out the key role that local business play. Beginning in the summer of 2021, a Downtown Safety Work Group has strived to identify additional steps to improve safety. “Our downtown businesses have been very supportive and helpful,” Gorton said.

You can find more about the Breeder’s Cup Festival events here.

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