Keeneland’s 2025 Fall Race Meet kicks off on Friday, October 3, and runs through Saturday, October 25, with live racing held Wednesday through Sunday each week. Set in the heart of horse country, the Fall Meet showcases many of the sport’s top Thoroughbreds and horsemen, making it one of the premier events on the racing calendar.

Keeneland’s Fall Meet features a full lineup of special events that reflect the track’s ongoing mission to elevate the sport and give back to the Central Kentucky community.

Saturdays: Sunrise Trackside

A unique behind-the-scenes look at life on the track as the sun comes up. Enjoy coffee and light breakfast fare from The Starting Gate concession stand while watching morning workouts on the track. From 8 to 10 a.m., children can take part in activities under the grandstand, including games, photo ops with jockey silks, and a meet-and-greet with Keeneland’s mascot, Buckles. Between 8:30 and 9 a.m., families can head to the paddock to pet a horse and watch the John Deere tractors groom the track between workouts. Guests interested in learning more about Keeneland’s rich racing tradition are invited to join a complimentary mini tour. Just stop by the Tours Podium near the Paddock for details. Sunrise Trackside is free and open to all. No ticket required.

Wednesdays: WINS-day

Take your shot at winning big in Keeneland’s WINS-Day Challenge, a fun and competitive handicapping contest for just $10 to enter. Sign up for the WINS-day Challenge at Wagering Central, 1st floor under the Grandstand. Place a mythical $2 Win/Place bet on each of the last six races of the day. The player with the highest mythical bankroll (i.e. most money) at the end of the day wins. 100% of the pot is payed out to the top 10 players. The first 200 sign-ups receive a free Malone’s appetizer card and a daily racing form. Sign up for the WINS-day Challenge at Wagering Central, 1st floor under the Grandstand.

Thursday, Oct. 9: Make-A-Wish Day

For the 18th year, local Thoroughbred farms and organizations team up with Keeneland to grant wishes for many deserving children. At Keeneland on this day, Make-A-Wish children and their families will be treated to a VIP experience, complete with presenting a trophy after each race, meeting jockeys and experiencing all the excitement of a day at the races. Fans are encouraged to cheer on these children and support Make-A-Wish® Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana. Donations will be accepted near the Keeneland Paddock.

Friday, Oct. 10: College Scholarship Day presented by Lane’s End

Keeneland welcomes all current full-time enrolled college students to enjoy a day of racing, prizes, scholarship giveaways, behind-the-scenes racing experiences, reserved seating and more. By registering, students will receive a free general admission ticket to enjoy the races. Students who have their ticket scanned at the admission gates can win scholarships and prizes. Activities will take place in the North Terrace, including activations from Amplify Horse Racing, Bad Ass Coffee, and LexLive from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 11: Jockey Autograph Signing

Racing fans can meet jockeys currently riding at Keeneland as well as retired jockeys – from Hall of Famers to history makers and Keeneland favorites. The autograph signing will be held 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the North Terrace to benefit the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund.

Sunday, Oct. 12: Kids Club Family Day presented by Kentucky Children’s Hospital

The Keeneland Kids Club is the Official Kids Club for Keeneland fans 12 and younger. Members and their families are invited to enjoy a special day at the races by receiving free general admission and access to reserved grandstand seating in Sections A, B & C when they present their membership cards at the admission gates. Children’s activities will take place in the North Terrace from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and include face painting, a sweet treat, and activities with local community partners such as Amplify Horse Racing, Kentucky Children’s Hospital, LexArts and Eckerts Orchard. Not a member? Sign up online. Or email kidsclub@keeneland.com.

Friday, Oct. 17: Big Blue Day

It’s Homecoming Weekend! Enjoy performances by the UK Alumni Band, cheerleaders and dance team. Look out for appearances by UK legends and special Winner’s Circle events. Keep your eye on Keeneland Bugler Steve Buttleman, who has been known to lead fans in the UK fight song, “On! On! U of K.” Fan Engagement Activities will take place in the North Terrace from 11 – 3 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 19: Heroes Day

Heroes Day is a heartfelt tribute to the brave individuals who serve our communities and country—including military members (active duty and veterans), first responders, and healthcare workers. Heroes and their families will receive free general admission, reserved Grandstand seating, and access to the Family Zone, which features activities for all ages and a complimentary meal provided by City BBQ in the North Terrace. The day will also include patriotic programming on the track, such as a flag rollout ceremony and Winner’s Circle recognitions honoring our heroes. In partnership with Rolling Thunder Kentucky Chapter 5, a POW-MIA Chair of Honor will be displayed in front of The Keeneland Shop to raise awareness for past and present prisoners of war and those missing in action.

Saturday, Oct. 25: Teacher Appreciation Day

Teachers, educators, and staff along with one guest can receive free general admission and access to Reserved Grandstand Seating in sections A and B. Through partnership with Coca-Cola Consolidated and UPS, educators can visit the tent in the Paddock on this day with their school ID or badge receive a complimentary voucher for a Coca-Cola beverage. Once your reserved ticket has been scanned you will be automatically entered to win one of the giveaways offered. Winners will be drawn at 4 p.m. The Keeneland Shop is offering 15% OFF to any active teacher with a valid ID on Teacher Appreciation Day.

Saturday, Oct. 25: Headless Horseman

The headless horsemen will make a spooky appearance again at Keeneland on Saturday, October 26 following Race 4 at approximately 2:40 p.m.