And we're off! It's Opening Day of the 2012 season kicking off an action packed three day combination of racing and entertainment! The 2012 season will run Friday, May 4 through Sunday, September 30 with a full calendar of heart-pounding Thoroughbred racing, events and entertainment you won't want to miss!

To show our appreciation to all of our amazing fans, General Admission is FREE on Friday, May 4 and you can get one hot dog and your choice of a beer or soda for 50 cents! (Limit one per customer. Coupon will be given to the first 5,000 guests at the gates upon entry.) So invite everyone you know and come out for an exciting day at the races!

Plus, Mr. D's Sports Bar will have $2 beer specials and 1/2 price appetizers. So stop in, watch the races, and stay afterwards as Robbie Gold performs live from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

But the excitement is just beginning!

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 at Arlington Park on Saturday, May 5 is all about world famous Mint Juleps, live music by Erica Iozzo, hat contests and good times with great friends! You can watch and wager on the Kentucky Derby simulcast and other live races throughout the day.

There are many ways to experience the excitement of Derby Day at Arlington Park. No matter which Derby experience you choose, it will certainly be a memorable one. You can watch "The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports™" from the Million Room or the popular Derby Party Zone. Both packages give you the ultimate fan experience.

The first 2,500 guests to purchase Derby Day tickets online and in advance will receive an official 2012 Kentucky Derby glass. Guests who have purchased tickets online can redeem for their Derby glass at the East Paddock redemption counter.

Arlington Park is located at 2200 W. Euclid Ave. in Arlington Heights. More information is available at arlingtonpark.com.