The crisp morning air rolling over the limestone gates, the vibrant amber canopy framing the backstretch, and the thunder of Thoroughbred hooves under an autumn sky—there is truly nothing like racing at Keeneland Race Course in October.

This Friday, October 2nd, 2026, the gates swing open once again for the highly anticipated 2026 Fall Race Meet, kicking off a spectacular 17-day season that runs through Saturday, October 24th.

This year holds an even deeper significance for horse racing purists and casual fans alike. The 2026 Fall Meet marks the 90th Anniversary of Keeneland racing.

First welcoming racing fans on October 15th, 1936, the Lexington landmark has spent nine decades preserving the timeless elegance of the sport while consistently hosting its highest echelon of competition.

While the Spring Meet brings a fresh sense of renewal, Autumn at Keeneland feels deeply nostalgic and romantic. The historic grounds transform into a breathtaking patchwork of deep reds, burnt oranges, and golden yellows. Fans arrive dressed in rich tweeds and layers, holding warm drinks as mist rises off the track during early morning workouts.

Over its 90-year legacy, the Fall Meet has evolved into one of the most critical windows on the global racing calendar. The historic anchor of Opening Day remains the $400,000-dollar Stoll Keenon Ogden Phoenix Stakes (G2), which holds the proud title of the oldest continuously run stakes race in the United States, dating back to 1831.

This year’s meet features a massive 22 Stakes schedule worth $10.7 million in total purses. The action starts at a fever pitch with the legendary Fall Stars Weekend from October 2nd–4th, featuring 11 Stakes—including iconic Grade 1 events like the Darley Alcibiades, the Coolmore Turf Mile, and the Juddmonte Spinster.

Keeneland is also playing host to the prestigious Breeders’ Cup World Championships this year on October 30th & 31st, thus making the Fall Meet the ultimate proving ground.

Eight of the opening weekend races are designated as Breeders’ Cup Win and You’re In contests, meaning the horses crossing the wire first on the Lexington dirt and turf will secure automatic starting spots in the World Championships just a few weeks later.