Corporate Events & Celebrations FAQ

Corporate Events & Celebrations FAQ


What are the available dates and venues to use for my corporate event at Keeneland?

Keeneland does not host any Corporate Events during Thoroughbred Sales, Race Meets or holidays. 

2023 Blackout Dates: April, June 25-July 5, September 11-30, October 1-31, November 1-24, December 16-January 2 

Available venues for Corporate Events include the Keeneland Clubhouse and Sales Pavilion. 

Can I host a corporate event during race meet?

Due to the scheduling process of the races (April and October), race meet venues cannot be booked until 2 months prior to the race meet, and venues are limited. Private race meet venue options include: Keeneland Room, Lafayette Room, Life Members Room, Corporate Suite (standard), and Corporate Suite (large). Public accommodations are also released 2 months prior to race meet through the online ticketing site. 

Can I organize a tour of Keeneland for my company?

Yes! Keeneland has an extensive tour program and we are happy to work with corporate clients throughout the year to create a custom tour experience. 


What does the rental fee include?

All venue rentals include the event space (set up at noon the day prior to your event and tear down the day after), tables, chairs, floor-length linens, house lighting and sound, stage, dance floor and a Keeneland Event Planner. A preferred vendor list will also be provided. 

Can I use my own vendors?

At Keeneland, we have a number of exceptional vendors who we trust and have worked at an exceptional level. Rentals, Tenting, Draping/Lighting must be selected from this list. We have a suggested vendor list for all other vendors but these are not required. Corporate Events are also assigned a Keeneland Event Planner to help with the venue, menu and logistics. 

Can I use an outside catering company for my corporate event?

No, all catering (food and beverage) is required to use Keeneland Hospitality. Please note the food and beverage minimums which are specific to each event and venue. Your Keeneland Event Planner will help create an exceptional menu and drink order specific to your event! A 22% service charge and 6% KY sales tax will be added to the final bill. 

Are there any restriction on décor?

Keeneland is very supportive of making your event your own! We do have a few necessary restrictions included in the contract; No existing décor may be altered or removed by clients or invitees without the advance written approval of Keeneland Hospitality. We also ask that all decorations for the event be approved in advance by Keeneland Hospitality. Any decorations that could possible damage the ceilings, walls or floors will not be allowed. No birdseed, rice, confetti, glitter or helium balloons are permitted. Candles may be used but must be enclosed in glass containers such as hurricane globes or votives. Tenting, draping and lighting vendors must be selected from the Preferred Vendor List. 


Do you have suggested vendors that you recommend?

We have several vendors we work with often - but no required vendor list that you are required to use. Please contact a Keeneland Coordinator to discuss recommendations for your event.


Can I use a drone to capture video footage?

Due to Keeneland’s proximity with the Lexington Airport, no drones are permitted on the grounds. 

How do I book a corporate event at Keeneland?

Complete the Proposal Request Form and the Event Sales Manager will be in touch with you within a few days. A phone call will be set up to discuss available dates, guest number, venues, menu options and pricing. An Event Proposal will be created and shared with the client, then a site visit will be scheduled.  Upon receipt of the contract, clients have two weeks to sign, return and submit a $2,000 nonrefundable deposit to hold the date. A credit card is also required to be on file with the contract. 

Additional questions? Email [email protected]