(FOX 5/KUSI) — From fashionable attire to wagering on thoroughbred horse racing, Opening Day at the Del Mar Races kicks off Friday with the gates opening at 11:30 a.m., marking the 86th season of the famed annual races at the seaside oval.
There are approximately 300 races on the slate this year, with the festivities running through Sept. 7. The racetrack is open on a Thursday-through-Sunday schedule, except for Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 1, according to Del Mar’s official racing calendar.
Here’s what you need to know about the event this season.
Admission to the Del Mar Races
Everyone is welcome to the race grounds; however, an adult must accompany children 17 years or younger, and patrons must be 18 years or older to wager on the races. You can explore ticket options here.
You can download the Del Mar Mobile App to access digital tickets that can be scanned at the admission gate, and also use the app to watch racing replays and monitor live pony scratches and changes.
The parking lots open an hour before the earliest event’s start time, with prices ranging from $20 for regular-sized cars and motorcycles to $40 for oversized vehicles, including buses, limos and RVs.
How to Place a Bet at the Del Mar Races:
Whether you’re a seasoned gambling veteran or just want to make a wager on the horse with a fun name, here are the steps to get into the action:
- Have your cash or voucher ready when you approach the teller window
- You must have the racetrack name and race number, the dollar amount and type of wager you want to place, and the program number of the horse or horses you pick
- The teller will then hand you your ticket. Be sure to double-check your bet and take care not to lose your ticket
You can find more information on how to wager at the races here, including links to Daily Entries.
Food and Drink Options:
The races also offer a variety of tasty options and drinks for attendees. The floor menu consists of starters, entrees, burgers and sandwiches, including Beer-Battered Fish Tacos and Bavarian Style Pretzel Puffs.
There are also several Del Mar Signature Drinks available for purchase by patrons 21 years of age and older, including the Del Margarita and the Summer Breeze.
For more information about the rules and regulations of the Del Mar Races, please visit this link. The Official Program Guide can be accessed here.
Good luck at the races!
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
