One of the most cherished traditions in American horse racing returns this week, as Saratoga Race Course opens its gates on Thursday, July 10, 2025, for the official start of its iconic summer meet. The 40-day meet runs through Labor Day, Monday, September 1, and promises world-class racing, exciting promotions, and family-friendly fun.
Opening Day Highlights
Saratoga’s first day back will be headlined by the Listed De La Rose Stakes, a one-mile turf race for fillies and mares that sets the stage for what promises to be a summer of thrilling stakes competition. Opening weekend, which runs Thursday, July 10 through Sunday, July 13, will also feature two key stakes races:
- Friday, July 11: The Grade III Coronation Cup, a 5 ½-furlong turf sprint for 3-year-old fillies.
- Saturday, July 12: The meet’s first Grade I event, the Dunkin’ Diana Stakes, a $500,000 turf race for 3-year-old fillies, showcasing some of the top sophomore turf runners in the country.
Racing Schedule
After opening weekend, live racing will be held Wednesday through Sunday each week, with a special Monday card on Labor Day to close the meet.
Promotions and Family Fun
Saratoga’s 2025 summer meet will be packed with giveaways, family programming, and events designed to enhance the fan experience:
Giveaway Days
Giveaway items are available with paid admission while supplies last. This year’s promotional lineup includes:
- Friday, July 4 – Saratoga Sunglasses: Celebrate Independence Day with red-framed shades featuring the Saratoga logo.
- Friday, July 11 – Saratoga Summer Tour T-Shirt (NYRA Bets): A concert-style red tee featuring the stakes schedule and Saratoga graphics.
- Sunday, July 20 – Saratoga Hawaiian Shirt: A bold red-and-white floral shirt for sunny afternoons.
- Friday, July 25 – Saratoga Blanket (Rivers Casino): A cozy red polar fleece ideal for picnics or cool nights.
- Friday, August 8 – Saratoga Pennant: A collectible felt pennant with classic Spa imagery.
- Friday, August 22 – Saratoga Tote Bag: A tie-dye cotton tote perfect for carrying your essentials.
- Sunday, August 31 – Saratoga Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt: A red midweight pullover embroidered with the Saratoga logo.
Family Activities
- NYRA STAR (Students of Thoroughbreds and Racing): Launches Friday, July 11 for kids 12 and under and runs every Friday through Sunday.
- Horse Sense: A fan-favorite experience that allows visitors to pet retired thoroughbreds, available Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 2 p.m., starting July 12.
- Family Sundays: Beginning Sunday, July 13, kids can enjoy free activities in the Family Zone every Sunday.
Adult Experiences
- Taste NY Pavilion: Showcasing New York-made food and beverages, open Thursday through Sunday starting July 10.
- Saratoga-Con presented by Miller Lite: On Sunday, July 13, enjoy a 21+ bar hop around the track with games, giveaways, and themed activities.
- Introduction to Handicapping: Free betting strategy seminars every Sunday beginning July 13, ideal for both newcomers and seasoned racegoers.
As the summer sun rises over the Spa, anticipation is high for what many consider the most celebrated stretch of the horse racing calendar. With top-tier stakes, community traditions, and festive fanfare, the 2025 Saratoga meet is shaping up to be an unforgettable season from Opening Day on July 10 through the grand finale on Labor Day, September 1.
For tickets, events, and a full racing schedule, visit NYRA.com.
