2026 Live Racing Meet at Colonial Downs Racetrack

Virginia's premier turf track opens June 25 for a 45-day summer run, and handicappers have plenty to sink their teeth into.

The headliner is the Festival of Racing on August 1, anchored by the Grade 1 Arlington Million at 1¼ miles, the Grade 2 Beverly D., and the Grade 2 Secretariat Stakes — all over Colonial's celebrated turf course. That's a card worth circling in red.

Closing day on Labor Day brings the Grade 3 Old Dominion Derby, a 1⅛-mile turf test for 3-year-olds that historically attracts sharp form.

With racing every Thursday through Sunday, purses up to $90,000 in overnights, four brand-new $100,000 stakes, and a full slate of Virginia and Maryland-bred restricted races offering overlay potential, this meet rewards the patient handicapper all summer long.

Colonial Downs Racing and Track History

Colonial Downs first opened its doors in 1997 to significant fan fare, with 13,000 spectators showing up to watch thoroughbred racing. The track was developed with noticeable differences in comparison to other race tracks in the country, namely due to the large size of the track (one of the biggest in the US) in comparison to its small clubhouse. They also built OTB's prior to the opening of the track.

Colonial Downs established a reputation for delivering high quality summertime turf racing, especially in the oft-poor three-year-old turf division. Colonial Downs once hosted two of the most important turf races for three year olds - The Colonial Turf Cup and the Grade III Virginia Derby. Along with the Secretariat Stakes at Churchill Downs (formerly at Arlington Park) and the Breeders' Cup Turf, the races made up the "Grand Slam of Grass". While the Virginia Derby is still run at Colonial Downs, the Colonial Turf Cup is now run as the Commonwealth Turf Cup at Laurel Park in Maryland.

In 2013, horse racing was paused indefinitely due to a dispute between track management and horsemen's groups. The conflict continued when the Virginia Racing Commission denied Colonial Downs all racing dates for 2016, after all avenues to keep the track open by ownership were exhausted.

In 2018, Virginia enacted a law to allow historical racing machines at the track and OTBs, and weeks later the track was purchased by a new ownership group. Finally in 2019, Colonial Downs held its first race in 6 years.

The first leg of the Steeplechase Triple Crown can be found for Fillies and Mares with the Theodora A. Randolph, Marion Dupont Scott, and Stakes at a distance of 2 1/4 miles.

Colonial Downs Racetrack FAQs

Discover essential tips and information on Colonial Downs Racetrack, from race schedules to expert picks, in the FAQs below.

1. What is the Colonial Downs Racetrack race schedule?

The Colonial Downs Racetrack race schedule is typically posted on the official website before the season starts. It includes dates and times for all races, ensuring you don’t miss any action.

2. What are the operating hours for Colonial Downs Racetrack?

Colonial Downs Racetrack typically operates on race days with varying hours. Check the official schedule for specific times.

3. What are the best bets for Colonial Downs Racetrack?

The best bets at Colonial Downs Racetrack vary by race, but expert picks are often available online. Stay updated by following handicapping tips from trusted sources like Twinspires to increase your chances of winning.

4. Where can I find Colonial Downs Racetrack handicapping tips?

Handicapping tips for Colonial Downs Racetrack are widely available online through expert analysis. These tips help bettors assess horse performance, track conditions, and odds to make more strategic bets.

5. Where can I find Colonial Downs Racetrack entries?

Colonial Downs Racetrack entries are available on the official website and major online platforms like Twinspires. Entries include detailed information about horses, jockeys, and odds for each race, helping you make informed bets.