Live thoroughbred racing returns to Colonial Downs next month, following a record-setting spring meet that saw more than 8,000 fans witness American Promise win the Virginia Derby and earn a spot in this year’s Kentucky Derby.

The 2025 summer meet will feature 44 race days, the most since the New Kent track reopened in 2019. The expanded schedule adds 17 days to last year’s season and will run from Wednesday, July 9, through Saturday, Sept. 13, with racing every Wednesday through Saturday and a special Labor Day card on Monday, Sept. 1.

Post times will vary, with most days starting at 12:30 p.m. and Friday cards beginning at 4 p.m. Colonial Downs also will host steeplechase races on select Thursdays—July 10, 17 and 31; Aug. 7 and 21; and Sept. 4 and 11 — with a first post of 10:45 a.m. Wagering on these events will be available on-site only.

“The 2025 race season began with the landmark Virginia Derby—the first-ever Kentucky Derby qualifier held in the Commonwealth—and continues all summer long with exciting racing, live music, great food and drinks, and a few new surprises we think fans will love,” said Frank Hopf, senior director of racing operations.

This year’s schedule includes four Premium Racing Events. Opening Friday on July 11 will feature the return of the camel, ostrich and zebra races between thoroughbred contests. The Colonial Downs Festival of Racing on Aug. 9 will include some of the summer’s biggest purses with the Grade 1 Arlington Million, Grade 2 Beverly D., and Grade 2 Secretariat Stakes. The event will feature a special noon post time and a live performance by “American Idol” finalist Grayson Torrence, a native of New Kent County.

On Aug. 23, Wiener Dog Racing returns to the track as dachshunds compete in short sprints for cheering fans. Old Dominion Day on Sept. 6 will include the Grade 3 $500,000 Old Dominion Derby and the $250,000 Old Dominion Oaks, with live music from The Deloreans. Post time is scheduled for noon.

General admission will be free on most race days. Premium event days will require a $5 ticket, with free entry for children age 5 and under. Saturdays will feature family activities like pony rides and petting zoos, along with themed events such as RVA Day on July 12, PDJF Day on July 26, and College Day on Sept. 13.

More information is available at colonialdowns.com.