Churchill Downs preps for 150th Kentucky Derby

Churchill Downs is kicking off the yearlong celebration of the 150th Kentucky Derby, which has run each year since 1875 -- the longest continuously running sports event in the U.S. As part of the kickoff of the yearlong celebration ahead of the 2024 event, Churchill Downs unveiled a trio of new premium experiences, including two new dining clubs and an outdoor dining experience with views of both the new paddock area, which will be finished in time for the 150th race, and the racetrack. 

• The Woodford Reserve Paddock Club and Paddock Club Enclosure -- a new and exclusive equine-focused experience in the heart of the action. Both areas include special paddock access through a private tunnel, a curated dining experience, a dedicated concierge team, a private betting parlor, and trackside race viewing, as well as views of the paddock runway and saddling stalls. 
• 1895 Club and 1895 Enclosure -- located on the west side of the paddock runway, this new club focuses on a behind the scenes equine experience with a view of the paddock runway and saddling stalls. 
• Spires Terrace and Suites -- Churchill Downs’ first outdoor dining option includes a dedicated concierge team and a curated dining experience nestled under the iconic Twin Spires, including an unduplicated 360-degree view of both the racetrack and the paddock.
• Additionally, more than 2,600 outdoor dining seats will be added at Churchill Downs across three new outdoor balcony experiences: the Silks Balcony and Loge, Plaza Balcony and Loge, and the new Triple Crown Balcony. 

To honor the 150th race, Churchill Downs is also announcing the chance for fans to a “Derby of a Lifetime” experience, running online through Jan. 31, 2024. The winner will receive VIP tickets to the race, Taste of Derby tickets, a Derby Weekend hotel stay, full airfare and ground transportation, an exclusive Vineyard Vines apparel line, designer headwear fit for the Derby, and exclusive visits to various locations throughout the venue, including the Derby Red Carpet Experience.

And the Derby is a launching a series of apparel and merchandise to commemorate the 150th anniversary, the 150 Capsule Collection -- including a cashmere line and limited-edition accessories that celebrate the event’s history -- the 1875 Collection -- vintage-inspired apparel based on historical artifacts from event logos, posters, pins, tickets, and programs -- and the Icon Collection -- high-end merchandise inspired by the Derby’s horseshoe and rose.

Churchill Downs renderings

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3rd floor east loge

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1895 dining entry view