July 4th Racing Festival at Saratoga Race Course

About this event

Experience the Thrill of Opening Weekend at the Spa!

The gates fly open for the highly anticipated 2026 Saratoga summer meet with the spectacular July 4th Racing Festival. Running from Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5, this blockbuster three-day opening weekend pairs elite thoroughbred racing with festive holiday celebrations. Whether you love lightning-fast dirt sprints, prestigious Grade 1 turf routes, or the unique spectacle of steeplechase jumping, this festival has it all.

Festival Highlights & Schedule

Friday, July 3: Opening Day Kickoff

Welcome back the summer meet with an afternoon highlighted by the $200,000 Schuylerville Stakes for blazing-fast 2-year-old fillies, alongside premier turf matchups in the Wild Applause and the Saranac. Plus, grab a commemorative premium Tumbler Giveaway presented by Saratoga 250 (available with paid admission, while supplies last).

Saturday, July 4: Independence Day 250 Celebration

Celebrate America's 250th anniversary at the most historic sporting venue in the country! Saturday's card boasts a massive million-dollar turf double featuring the $750,000 Belmont Derby (G1) and the $600,000 Belmont Oaks (G1). The dirt action brings heavy hitters for the historic $500,000 Suburban Handicap (G2) and the $225,000 Sanford Stakes (G3).

Early arrivals can collect the holiday edition Tumbler Giveaway presented by Saratoga 250 (available with paid admission, while supplies last).

Sunday, July 5: Turf Showcase Sunday

The holiday weekend wraps up with a grass-lover's paradise. Watch elite athletes soar over fences in the grueling $150,000 Leo O'Brien (G1) Steeplechase, followed by a clash of older turf milers in the $225,000 Kelso Stakes (G3), and a flat-out grass sprint in the $200,000 Harvey Pack.

Important Gate Info: Giveaways are highly coveted and distributed while supplies last to fans entering with paid admission. Arrive early to secure your commemorative Saratoga 250 trackside souvenirs!