LEXINGTON, Ky. — Keeneland's 2024 Fall Meet, set to open Friday, Oct. 4, will feature 17 jam-packed days of racing. 

Highlights include 22 stakes worth a record $9.85 million and the $1.25 million Coolmore Turf Mile, which is the richest race in track history. Purses for five stakes races have increased by $800,000. 

The Fall Meet kicks off with Fall Stars Weekend, which will feature three days with 11 stakes worth $5.8 million. Eight races are part of the "Breeders' Cup Challenge Series: Win and You're In," where winners get automatic starting positions and free entry into the 41st Breeders' Cup World Championships, set for Nov. 1-2. 

The meet will also take place amid the track's largest construction project since opening 88 years ago, which began in January. Expected to be completed in Sept. 2025, construction is centered on the three-level Paddock Building that will extend the entire length of the Paddock and Walking Ring. Keeneland said the facility will feature unique experiences for guests from traditional sit-down dining to new bar concepts and a panoramic rooftop while the ground level will feature new saddling stalls.

Racing will take place Wednesdays through Sundays. Gate open at 11 a.m. while the action kicks off daily at 1 p.m.

"We are thrilled to offer record purse money this race meet, which attracts the best horses in the country to Keeneland, many of them potential Breeders' Cup contenders," said Keeneland President and CEO Shannon Arvin. "Additionally, fans will see that construction of our new Paddock Building is well underway. This project represents an investment in the future of our sport and will provide unique hospitality experiences for our guests during race meets and sales, beginning this time next year. All this will set the stage for a fun Fall Meet."

Tickets are available online. Keeneland encouraged fans to check its website often and sign up to be notified when tickets become available, as they often sell out. 

A number of special events and promotions will take place as part of the track's mission to support others while enhancing the central Kentucky community and Thoroughbred industry. They include:

• Sunrise Trackside (Saturday, Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26)
• A jockey autograph signing (Oct. 5)
• Make-A-Wish Day (Thursday, Oct. 10)
• Big Blue Day (Friday, Oct. 11)
• Keeneland Kids Club Family Day (Sunday, Oct. 13)
• College Scholarship Day (Friday, Oct. 18)
• Heroes Day (Sunday, Oct. 20)
• Teacher Appreciation Day (Saturday, Oct. 26)

Tailgating on The Hill will also be open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during the Fall Meet, weather permitting. Fans can watch races on a jumbo TV and place their bets in a wagering tent while enjoying food and live music. The Hill is open from 8 a.m. to an hour after the final race, Keeneland said.

Check out Keeneland's website for more information if you're headed to the meet.