Saratoga Race Course Summer 2026 Special Events Schedule
Saratoga Race Course today announced its expansive lineup of attractions and special events for the 2026 summer meet.
Whitney & Travers Days 2026
Highlighted by the 157th edition of the Grade I, $1.25 million DraftKings Travers on Saturday, August 29, and the Grade I, $1 million Whitney on Saturday, August 8, the 46-day summer meet will open on Friday, July 3 and run through Monday, September 7.
Opening Weekend
Following Opening Weekend action featuring the July 4th Racing Festival from Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5, live racing will be conducted Thursday-Sunday before the resumption of the five-day racing week beginning Wednesday, July 29. The 2026 summer meet will conclude with a six-day closing week from Wednesday, September 2, through Labor Day, Monday, September 7.
Gates, Admission & First Post
First post will be at 1:10 p.m. every day except Saturdays, when first post will be at 12:35 p.m. The only exceptions are Whitney Day featuring an 11:45 a.m. first post and DraftKings Travers Day with first post at 11:05 a.m. Post times for Labor Day weekend will be announced at a later date.
Admission gates will open for live racing at 11 a.m. for all but Whitney Day, when gates will open at 10 a.m. and DraftKings Travers Day, when gates will open at 9 a.m.
General admission is $7 in advance or $10 on the day of the event. On Whitney Day, admission is $15 in advance or $20 on August 8. DraftKings Travers Day admission is $25 in advance or $30 on August 29.
The Ticketmaster Box Office, located at Gate A on Union Avenue, will operate daily beginning on Monday, June 29, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The box office is closed on all dark days once live racing gets underway.
Breakfast at Saratoga, driven by CDTA, is available daily beginning at 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., where fans can enjoy a buffet breakfast against the backdrop of morning training (excluding DraftKings Travers Day and Labor Day). Reservations are not required.
Fans with standard-sized coolers will be required to ensure all ice is contained inside sealed bags upon arrival. Designated inspection lanes are located at Gate B (Union and East Ave.) and Gate C (Nelson Ave.). Fans with coolers must enter through either gate.
Saratoga provides convenient access to reverse ATMs for fans who choose to pay in cash for purchases of food and beverage, admission, parking or programs. Credit and debit cards are welcome at all on-track locations.
The 2026 summer meet will feature the following events lineup and please note: all premium giveaways are free with paid admission, while supplies last.
Giveaway #1: Saratoga Tumbler presented by Saratoga 250
Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4
Fans can celebrate America’s 250th anniversary on Opening Day, Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, with a Stars and Stripes Saratoga tumbler presented by Saratoga 250. The 16-ounce double-walled insulated clear tumbler features the logos of Saratoga Race Course and Saratoga 250, which is spearheading next year’s major events commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Battles of Saratoga.
Opening Weekend / July 4th Racing Festival
Friday, July 3 to Sunday, July 5
Saratoga’s Opening Weekend festivities will align with the nationwide celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Dollar Dogs will return on Saturday, July 4, with $1 Carnegie Deli Hot Dogs available at various concession stands while Independence Day will feature historical reenactors in period attire roaming the grounds, plus the return of Uncle Sam! On Saturday and Sunday, Adirondack Dreamcatcher Farm will offer complimentary pony rides, a petting zoo and opportunities for children to interact with a variety of friendly farm animals.
FIFA World Cup 26™ Viewing Parties, hosted by Michelob Ultra and Saratoga Eagle Sales & Service
Friday July 3 to Sunday, July 5; Thursday, July 9 to Saturday, July 11
Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19
Michelob Ultra, the official beer sponsor of FIFA World Cup 26™, will host a series of FIFA World Cup 26™ Viewing Parties in partnership with Saratoga Eagle Sales & Service. The viewing parties will take place in the Backyard Festival Tent during all operating days of the summer meet that coincide with scheduled matches of FIFA World Cup 26™. Fans on-track will enjoy big-screen televisions and the opportunity to take home official giveaways from Michelob Ultra and other FIFA World Cup 26™ partners, while supplies last. Fans will also enjoy beverage specials, soccer-themed décor, interactive activations, and an inflatable soccer shootout game.
Saratoga Breakfast and Thoroughbred Farm Tours
Every Thursday to Saturday, beginning Friday July 3; Every Wednesday beginning July 29
This year’s series features a pair of leading aftercare organizations and welcomes back two longtime favorites. Tours are offered every Thursday through Saturday during the summer meet except for Saturday, July 4, and Saturday, August 29, and every Wednesday, beginning July 29.
Presented by New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc. (NYTB) the weekly lineup features Old Friends at Cabin Creek on Thursdays; Old Tavern Farm on Fridays; and Sugar Plum Farm on Saturdays. Wednesday’s tour partner will be announced in the near future. The package includes buffet breakfast, transportation, guided tour of a horse farm, and admission to Saratoga Race Course. Tickets may be purchased at NYRA.com.
Taste NY Pavilion
Every Thursday to Sunday beginning Friday, July 3
Fans can enjoy New York craft beers, cider, wines and spirits at the Taste NY Pavilion, located inside Gate A at the Top of the Stretch featuring products exclusively produced in the Empire State. Must be 21 and older to sample and purchase alcoholic beverages.
Saratoga Low Roller Contest
Every Thursday and Sunday beginning July 9
Horseplayers can enjoy the Saratoga Low Roller Contest held exclusively on-track every Thursday and Sunday. Fans can pre-register on contest days outside the Miller Time Fourstardave Sports Bar. There is a $40 buy-in, of which $30 will go to the player’s bankroll and $10 to the prize pool. The winner will receive a Saratoga Low Roller championship T-shirt in addition to the cash prize.
NYRA STAR Kids Club
Every Thursday to Sunday, beginning July 9
The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) Students of Thoroughbreds and Racing (STAR) returns Thursday, July 9 and is offered every Thursday – Sunday of the summer meet. NYRA STAR is designed to give children, ages 12 and under, and their families, insider access into the world of thoroughbred racing.
Participants will experience the sport through exclusive on-track events, educational opportunities and kid-friendly communications designed to ignite their interest in horses and excitement for the sport of thoroughbred racing. Membership for NYRA STAR is free of charge. Registration can be completed online at NYRA.com/STAR or in-person at the NYRA STAR booth in the Family Zone.
Giveaway #2: Spa FC Soccer Jersey presented by Rivers Casino
Friday, July 10
In celebration of the summer’s global soccer festivities, fans can claim a lightweight SPA FC soccer jersey presented by Rivers Casino. The jersey is emblazoned with a custom “SPA FC” crest alongside the Saratoga Race Course logo and will be available in medium, large, and extra-large sizes.
Horse Sense
Every Saturday and Sunday beginning July 11
Fans of all ages can pet a retired thoroughbred every Saturday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. at Horse Sense located inside Gate A. The educational exhibit includes fun facts about the life and career of a thoroughbred.
Family Sundays at the Saratoga Family Fun Zone
Every Sunday beginning July 12
Family Sundays will feature a wide variety of free family-friendly activities, games, attractions, and educational assignments inside the Family Zone, located near Gate A.
Introduction to Handicapping
Every Sunday beginning July 12
Offered every Sunday (excluding August 2) in the Paddock Suite, fans can learn betting strategies and tips from an expert handicapper. Tickets start at $95 and include admission, Post Parade program, and a table seat within the climate-controlled, shared suite overlooking the saddling area. Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here.
Giveaway #3: Saratoga Belt Bag and National Tattoo Day
Friday, July 17
Functional and fashionable, the stylish Saratoga belt bag offers a sleek, athletic-inspired design with adjustable strap adorned with a horse motif. Perfect for carrying race-day essentials, the belt bag is ideal for a summer afternoon at the Spa.
Fans can also get a tattoo at the track in celebration of National Tattoo Day. Two artists from the Saratoga Tattoo Company will be on-site at the Jockey Silks Porch beginning at 11 a.m. Each tattoo is $50 and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
First Responders Day
Thursday, July 23
Saratoga Race Course will pay tribute to first responders with free admission (ID required). First Responders Day will include a series of ceremonial events and feature the New York State Troopers Pipes and Drums and the City of Albany Pipe Band.
New York Thoroughbred Aftercare Day
Friday, July 24
The sixth annual New York Thoroughbred Aftercare Day will be held in conjunction with the $200,000 Rick Violette Stakes. Created by NYRA, the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (NYTHA), NYTB, and New York Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund (NYTBDF) the event highlights the industry’s commitment to aftercare. The Rick Violette Stakes was named in memory of the late NYTHA President, who championed aftercare during his tenure at the helm of the horsemen’s association.
Giveaway #4: Meet Me at the Spa Pin
Friday, July 24
The first of a series of four pin giveaways this summer, fans can add to their Saratoga collection with a “Meet Me at the Spa” enamel pin design inspired by the tradition and charm of Saratoga Race Course.
Permanently Disabled Jockeys' Fund Awareness Day
Saturday, July 25
Joining racetracks across the country, Saratoga will host autograph signings and photo opportunities at the Jockey Silks Porch during Permanently Disabled Jockeys’ Fund (PDJF) Awareness Day across America. Suggested donations will benefit the PDJF.
Kids Day and Giveaway #5: Horse Plushie
Sunday, July 26
The first 5,000 kids 12 and under in attendance will receive an 8-inch stuffed horse plushie sporting an embroidered Saratoga logo. The plushie giveaway will headline Saratoga’s Kids Day which will feature its second annual mascot race.
First Wednesday of the Summer Meet
Wednesday, July 29
Saratoga’s traditional five-day racing week with resume on Wednesday, July 29, with the Curlin Stakes, presented by Casamigos.
Jim Dandy Challenge
Saturday, August 1
Jim Dandy Day will feature a special handicapping contest that may be played on-track or online with a buy-in of $1,000. For information, visit NYRABets.com.
Giveaway #6: Saratoga Straw Cowboy Hat
Sunday, August 2
Fans can embrace summer style with a Saratoga straw cowboy hat adorned with a Saratoga logo ribbon around the base. Designed for sunny afternoons at the track, the hat is one-size-fits-most.
Giveaway #7: Whitney Pin
Friday, August 7
Commemorating one of the summer’s premier racing events, the Whitney Day enamel pin will be available on the eve of the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney featuring a custom design celebrating Saturday’s Whitney Day.
Whitney Day
first post time of 11:45 a.m.
Saturday, August 8
Headlined by the 99th running of the Grade 1, $1 million Whitney, Saratoga will offer four Grade 1 events inclusive of the Whitney, Fourstardave, $750,000 Saratoga Derby presented by Qatar Racing and $500,000 Test presented by Ticketmaster. Saratoga will host a Best in Pink fashion photo contest from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Jockey Silks.
Adirondack Day
Wednesday, August 12
Presented by the Adirondack Regional Tourism Council, fans will enjoy local products and attractions representative of the Adirondack region of New York State. The event is free to attend inside the Taste NY Pavilion for all fans on track.
High School State Champions Honored
Thursday, August 13
Saratoga will honor several Capital Region high school sports programs for their championship seasons competing in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA).
Corgi Races and Giveaway #8: Corgi Cup Pin
Sunday, August 16
The cutest show on dirt will return to Saratoga for the second annual Corgi Cup, featuring short legs, big personalities and plenty of puppy power. Fans attending the popular event can claim a commemorative enamel pin with a festive design in celebration of the 2026 Corgi Cup.
Stewart's Shops Day at the Races
Wednesday, August 19
Stewart’s Shops will serve free scoops of its award-winning ice cream, while supplies last. Fans can purchase their Saratoga season pass at 175 Stewart’s Shops until July 19, in addition to $50 NYRA Bets Gift Cards, which are available through September 6.
Saratoga Runs on Dunkin'
Thursday, August 20 and Friday, August 21
Fans can enjoy complimentary samples of Dunkin’ Refreshers, while supplies last, plus win prizes at the Dunkin’ kiosk on track.
Lustgarten Foundation and Alabama Day
Saturday, August 22
Saratoga will honor the legacy of trainer Dominic Galluscio with a day to benefit the Lustgarten Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to advance scientific and medical research related to pancreatic cancer. Numerous trainers will sign autographs with suggested donations to benefit the Lustgarten Foundation.
Giveaway #9: Mini Lawn Jockey Statue presented by NYRA Bets
Sunday, August 23
The mini lawn jockey statue presented by NYRA Bets is a six-inch resin collectible available at random in five different sets of silks, including an exclusive all-gold painted jockey. Each statue comes packaged in a commemorative display box.
Military Appreciation Day presented by Ford
Thursday, August 27
NYRA will pay tribute to active military members and veterans in appreciation of their sacrifice and service to our nation. All veterans and active-duty military will be honored with a special Winner’s Circle ceremony and receive free admission with military ID.
DraftKings Travers Day
first post time of 11:05 a.m.
Saturday, August 29
DraftKings Travers Day features five Grade 1 events among nine stakes in total. In addition to the Grade 1, $1.25 million DraftKings Travers, the program will include the Grade 1, $500,000 Personal Ensign, Grade 1, $500,000 Forego, Grade 1, $500,000 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial, and Grade 1, $500,000 Resorts World Casino Ballerina.
Giveaway #10: Saratoga Summer 2026 Pin
Sunday, August 30
Available on the Sunday following the running of the Grade 1, $1.25 million DraftKings Travers, fans can commemorate another memorable season at the Spa with an enamel Saratoga-themed pin.
Fan Appreciation Week
Wednesday, September 2 to Monday, September 7
Saratoga will thank its fans with special offers on tickets, food and beverages, and hospitality during the final week of the summer meet.
Giveaway #11: Saratoga Flannel Shirt
Monday, September 7
Labor Day concludes the summer meet with a Saratoga flannel shirt giveaway. The red-and-black cotton flannel button-up showcases a Saratoga logo embroidered above the left pocket and will be available in medium and extra-large sizes.
Season-long daily events and activities include:
Backstretch Tram Tours
Fans can go behind the scenes with a free, guided backstretch tram tour. Tram tours depart from the clubhouse entrance beginning at 7:30 a.m. with the last one leaving at 9 a.m. and running every 30 minutes. Tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are approximately 45 minutes in length. Tours are available every live racing day, except for DraftKings Travers Day and Labor Day.
Purdy's Music Summer Stage
The Purdy’s Summer Music Stage will host live musical performances each afternoon of the season by popular local and regional bands. This year’s summer music stage is presented by Purdy’s Discount Wine & Liquor in Saratoga Springs.
For additional information about Saratoga Race Course, visit NYRA.com.
All events are subject to change at the discretion of Saratoga Race Course.
