The Del Mar Horse Races open July 21. As a result horse racing fans no doubt are thrilled racing season is almost here.
Thoroughbred racing at the Del Mar Race Track at the Del Mar Fairgrounds runs through Sunday September 10th. Racing takes place Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Here’s the full calendar of events and races.
Horse racing at Del Mar is a popular summer event for area residents and visitors, with fans from around Southern California, and beyond. Del Mar thoroughbred racing has been popular for decades, with big crowds, and plenty of famous, not famous, and maybe even infamous, people.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE DEL MAR HORSE RACES
Del Mar thoroughbred racing has been a popular scene to see Hollywood and other celebrities. This is especially true on Opening Day!
As always Opening Day at the Del Mar Race Track includes the popular “Opening Day Hats Contest.” There is no entry fee to show off your hat in the Plaza de Mexico between 12:00 and 3 pm. Furthermore, all that’s needed is a great hat, and terrific clothes to show it off!
Cash prizes totaling over $4000 will be awarded in 4 categories: Most Glamorous, Best Racing Theme, Best Fascinator, and Best Flowers.
Race time is typically 2 pm and gates open 2 hours earlier. Admission tickets must be purchased in advance. Looks like Opening Day may already be sold out!
A second and shorter horse racing season was added some years ago. In 2023 it’s November 10th through December 3rd.
You must purchase tickets online in advance. Some tickets for Opening Day, including for The Party, are already sold out.
Expect heavy traffic on the 5 freeway, the Coast Road, and major side streets like Via de la Valle during racing season. This is especially true for opening day. This is in addition to the summer crowds in the Del Mar area in general.