Churchill Downs announces festivities for this year's Thurby celebration Share Updated: 9:38 PM EDT Apr 26, 2021 WLKY Digital Team Share Updated: 9:38 PM EDT Apr 26, 2021 WLKY Digital Team Churchill Downs Racetrack announced a lineup of festivities for this year's Thurby celebration. The event will include a day of music that celebrates the Commonwealth, including performances from Kentucky natives Ben Sollee, Scott T. Smith, Zaniah, and Abby Hamilton. Guests will also be able to enjoy Kentucky-inspired cuisine offered throughout the racetrack. “Thurby has quickly become one of the most treasured traditions of Kentucky Derby Week,” Churchill Downs Racetrack President Mike Anderson said. “It is the opportunity to celebrate what makes Kentucky, and the people in it, so unique and special. This year, we have creatively designed live entertainment throughout the racing schedule so guests can enjoy the day of festivities from their reserved seats.” Tickets to Thurby can be purchased here. Reserved seats start at $60 and include food and non-alcoholic beverages.Limited General Admission tickets with no seat will be sold on the day of the event at the Churchill Downs Ticket Office for $40, which will also include food and non-alcoholic beverages for the day. Gates open at 11:30 a.m., and the first race begins at 12:45 p.m.