Opening Weekend

Opening Day, Friday, May 6 Post Time 3 P. M.
It’s one of the surest signs of spring! The return of racing to Arlington Park. The exciting 2011 season begins with a special 3PM Post Time. The new season kicks off an action packed three day combination of racing and entertainment.

Chicagoland’s Largest Kentucky Derby P arty
Saturday, May 7 is one of Chicagoland’s best parties of the year. The annual celebration of one of the world’s great sporting events is a day long party---and you don’t need to go to Kentucky to be part of it!

Derby Day is all about world famous Mint Juleps, signature drinks, live music, and a chance to watch and bet on the Kentucky Derby—the most exciting 2 minutes in sports!

And the Derby is your chance to win big bucks. One lucky fan will win $1000 to bet on the Kentucky Derby in the “$1000 Ultimate Derby Bet.”

New on Derby Day this year is the Derby Party Zone, an exclusive red carpet experience with an all inclusive food and drink package. It’ll be all about fashion, food, and fun in the exclusive Derby Party Zone.  

The first 2,500 to buy Derby tickets on line will receive a Kentucky Derby Glass.

Mother’s Day Sunday, May 8
Mother’s Day at Arlington Park has become a Chicagoland tradition. This is your chance to give Mom a unique experience that will create memories to last a lifetime.

The first 5,000 ladies to arrive will receive a free rose, presented by one of Arlington's jockeys dressed in racing silks.

There are many dining options available, including the Million Room Mother’s Day Brunch, always a big hit. Reservations are recommended.

There will be Mother’s Day Mimosa and Bloody Mary Drink Specials, and a chance to win two (2) free roundtrip airline tickets from American Airlines.

Mother’s Day is fun for the whole family. Get a free family picture taken by one of our roaming photographers, and the kids will enjoy the Family Day fun with our petting zoo and pony rides.