Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming has confirmed February 25, 2026, as the official opening date for its new gaming and entertainment venue in Calvert City, Kentucky. The development marks the eighth gaming property operated by Churchill Downs Incorporated in the state and represents a $40 million investment in the region.

Construction on the site began just over a year ago, following demolition of the previous structure. Since then, the project has moved at a pace that has drawn attention from local residents. The finished facility spans approximately 23,000 square feet and is positioned at 65 Campbell Drive, near the intersection of U.S. 62 and Interstate 24 Exit 27, close to the Land Between the Lakes area.

Once operational, the venue will offer more than 225 historical racing machines. In addition to the gaming floor, Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming will provide simulcast wagering and sports betting options. Visitors will also have access to food and beverage outlets, including Wet Your Whistle and an on-site sports bar designed to serve guests throughout the day and evening.

Grand Opening Plans and On-Site Experience

The opening day schedule includes a ribbon-cutting ceremony that will formally welcome the public into the venue. Management has also planned entertainment elements and promotional giveaways to mark the occasion and introduce the facility to the wider community.

Dave McDade, assistant general manager of Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming, emphasized the atmosphere the team aims to create from the first day of operations. “All aboard! Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming is officially opening,” McDade said. “On February 25, 2026, we’re full steam ahead. We’ll kick things off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, entertainment and plenty of giveaways to get the celebration rolling. From the first whistle to the final stop of the night, we want guests to jump on board, feel the excitement, and enjoy a brand-new destination built for nonstop fun.”

McDade has also commented on the speed of development during the build phase, noting the reaction from those who have followed the project locally. “It’s coming along very quickly,” he said. “A lot of the comments on the local people are how quickly it is going up, surprise at how fast is going up.”

Community Presence and Employment Plans

Beyond gaming and entertainment, the venue is expected to play a role in local employment. The project is projected to create 100 permanent, full-time jobs across a range of departments. According to management, around 60 of those positions have already been filled ahead of the opening.

Staffing needs continue across multiple operational areas, including gaming operations, food and beverage service, cash operations, attendance, and security. “We’ll have some gaming positions, food and beverage positions such as bartender, server, cook positions, cash operations, attendance and security officers,” McDade said. “What we’re looking for at this point to round out our team.”

McDade has also highlighted the venue’s intention to integrate into the local area once doors open. “It’s a great opportunity to be part of the community,” he said. “We’re excited to open the doors.”

Relationship with Oak Grove and Player Rewards

Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming will operate as an annex of Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel, with the new Calvert City location designed to support the broader racing and gaming footprint connected to the Oak Grove racetrack. Ahead of the February opening, guests can already begin engaging with the operator’s loyalty program.

Players have the option to enroll in the FastTrack players club at Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel to start earning rewards before Marshall Yards officially opens. This allows early registrants to accumulate benefits in advance of the first day of operations at the new venue.

With regulatory approval secured in October 2024 and construction now nearing completion, Marshall Yards Racing & Gaming is preparing for its public debut as a new gaming destination in western Kentucky.