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For the first time, the July 4th Racing Festival begins today at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs. Running through Sunday (July 6), the event features some of the country's top thoroughbreds competing on both turf and dirt tracks. Gates open at 11 a.m., with the first race scheduled for 1:10 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, and at 12:35 p.m. on Saturday.
The festival, relocated from Belmont Park due to construction, includes 10 stakes races, with highlights such as the Grade 1, $750,000 Belmont Derby Invitational on Friday (July 4) and the $500,000 Belmont Oaks Invitational on Saturday (July 5). According to Saratoga.com, the event blends world-class stakes races with patriotic fanfare, family activities, and historic tributes.
Visitors can enjoy one-dollar Carnegie Deli hot dogs, beverage samplings, and a replica of the Saratoga 250 America's Turning Point cannon. The festival also features performances by the Ogdensburg Free Academy Marching Band and "The Voice" season 26 winner Sofronio Vasquez. NYRA reports that complimentary horseback rides for children and horse-themed carnival games will be available.
Admission is free for first responders, active military, and veterans on Friday (July 4) with valid ID. Fans can also enjoy special giveaways, including Saratoga-branded sunglasses and patriotic-themed photo magnets. The festival concludes with Saratoga Springs' All-American Celebration and a fireworks display on Friday night.