Buy Tickets
Heroes Day
Sunday, April 14
Heroes Day at Keeneland honors members of the military (active duty and veterans), first responders, healthcare workers and their families each spring and fall race meets.
On this day, heroes and their families receive free general admission, reserved grandstand seating, and access to the North Terrace family zone including activities and a complimentary meal provided by Marriott Griffin Gate this spring. Throughout the day there will be special programming on the track including a flag roll out and honoree recognitions in the Winner's Circle.
A POW-MIA Chair of Honor will be on display on the Paddock Apron to bring awareness to past and current POW-MIA military members through a partnership with The Rolling Thunder Kentucky Chapter 5.
Each hero is eligible to receive up to 6 complimentary tickets for this day. If you have questions, call (859) 254-3412.
FAQ
- When is Heroes Day?
One Sunday each spring and fall race meet, Keeneland honors heroes and their families. The Spring 2024 Heroes Day will take place on Sunday, April 14. Activities will take place in the North Terrace from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
- How do I receive free admission?
All members of the military (active duty & veterans), first responders, healthcare workers, and their families can receive complimentary general admission tickets to enjoy the race day. Tickets can be secured in advance HERE.
- What programming can I look forward to throughout the day?
Heroes and their families can visit the North Terrace from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. for a complimentary meal provided by Marriott Griffin Gate. Sections A & B in the grandstand are reserved for heroes and their families on a first come first serve basis.
The National Anthem (performed by Goldstar Mother Cathy Mullins) and Presentation of Colors (presented by the HHB 2nd/138th Field Artillery Battalion) will take place in the Walking Ring at 12:00 p.m.
The Henry Clay JROTC will assist with the flag roll out on the track after Race 4 (2:36 p.m.). Be on the lookout for special presentations in the Winner’s Circle following Races 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6.
The POW-MIA Chair of Honor will be on display in the Paddock.
Heroes can receive 30% off their purchase at the Keeneland Shop with a valid I.D.
- Where can I park?
Free, Public Parking: Free, public parking will be available in The Hill and Meadow by entering Gate 1. Patrons will have access to complimentary shuttling to the track. Customer service representatives will be at each shuttle stop to help with questions.
NEW! Permit Parking: New this Spring, all paved parking rows will be for permit parking and free handicap parking only. No reservation is required for handicap parking.
Patrons who are attending the Spring Meet are able to pre-purchase a parking space in the Green Lot. These parking spaces will be limited each day and are expected to sell out.
Spring 2024 Honorees
Jason's Box
Jason's Box, an all-volunteer group supporting catastrophically injured Servicemembers, provides biannual outdoor experiences including equine therapy, fishing, hunting and beekeeping at no cost. This year, they're hosting U.S. Army Corporal (Retired) Trampus Keith Miller and United States Marine Corps Corporal (Retired) James “Michael” Boucher, celebrating their resilience and sacrifice.
Surgery on Sunday
In 2005, Dr. Andrew Moore II founded Surgery on Sunday (SoS) to offer high-quality surgical care to underserved individuals at no cost. SoS aims to relieve suffering and combat disease through essential surgeries and screenings, prioritizing equitable access to healthcare.
Lexington Fire Department
The Lexington Fire Department has achieved a remarkable milestone securing Internationally Accredited Agency Status from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International and the Center for Public Safety Excellence-- a prestigious class 1 ranking from the Insurance Services Organization, a nationwide assessment of fire protection service effectiveness. Moreover, their accreditation in EMS education by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. The Lexington Fire Department is the only Fire Department in the State of Kentucky to have achieved this feat and one of only seven departments in the nation.
Operation Copsicle
A 2016 request Lexington Police Department’s Officer Ryan for free popsicles at Douglas Pool in 2016 led to the "Pops from Cops" initiative, which garnered over 72,000 donations and expanded nationwide through partnerships with Jelsert and Flavor-Ice. In 2021, Officer Holland's proposal to create a "Copsicle" van was approved and today, the van travels through Lexington neighborhoods working to foster community engagement through free treats and dialogue with law enforcement. Their additional promotions include movie nights sponsored by local companies.
Partners & Sponsors
