Following an historic and record-breaking March meet in which more than 8,000 fans watched American Promise win the Virginia Derby and secure his spot in the 2025 Kentucky Derby, live racing will return to Colonial Downs in just thirty days with an expanded schedule, unique entertainment and promotions, and high-stakes thoroughbred racing.
In 2025, Colonial Downs hosts a 44-day live racing season. This will be a record number of race days since the track reopened in 2019 and is an increase of 17 race days over the 2024 schedule.
Virginia’s premier thoroughbred racetrack will host racing every Wednesday through Saturday for ten weeks from Wednesday, July 9 through Saturday, September 13 with a special day of racing on Labor Day, Monday, September 1. Fridays will feature twilight racing with a 4 p.m. post time, while nearly all other race days will begin at 12:30 p.m.
“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. “We’re thrilled to continue hosting world-class horses, trainers, and jockeys, and this season we’re introducing even more fan-friendly promotions to make every visit to Colonial Downs truly unforgettable.”
Tickets are now on sale for the entire 2025 race season at Colonial Downs. Free general admission will be offered nearly every race day, with General Admission for four Premium Racing Events available at the fan-friendly price of just $5 and free admission for children five and under. For an elevated guest experience on any race day, Colonial Downs offers reserved Grandstand Seats and Grandstand Box Seats, as well as indoor and dining options at the Jockey Club and the 1609 Restaurant.
The 2025 Premium Racing Events that will require a ticket include:
- Friday, July 11—Opening Friday will feature the return of the fan-favorite camel, ostrich, and zebra races, which will be held between thoroughbred races.
- Saturday, August 9—The annual Colonial Downs Festival of Racing will feature a special live performance by New Kent County’s own Grayson Torrance, a Top 24 contestant in the most recent season of American Idol, as well as the season’s biggest races and purses including the Grade 1 Arlington Million, Grade 2 Beverly D., and Grade 2 Secretariat Stakes. Special first post time of 12pm.
- Saturday, August 23—Weiner Dog Racing returns to Colonial Downs as mighty little athletes race down the track on tiny legs. To register your dog, visit: www.rosiesgaming.com/wiener-dog-racing.
- Saturday, September 6—Old Dominion Day will feature live music from Virginia favorites The Deloreans as well as the Grade 3 $500,000 Old Dominion Derby and the $250,000 Old Dominion Oaks. Post time for Old Dominion Day is noon.
Colonial Downs will offer Thursday Steeplechase racing on July 10, 17, 31, August 7, 21, September 4, 11. Three races are scheduled with a first post of 10:45AM. On-track wagering only will be available on these races.
Throughout the summer meet, fans and families will enjoy a variety of exciting promotions and activities to make for an unforgettable day at the track.
Each Winning Wednesday will feature food and drink specials. Thirsty Thursdays will feature beer specials, while Fridays’ Party At The Downs will feature Happy Hour specials from 4-6pm during twilight racing.
Saturdays throughout the season will feature a family-friendly petting zoo and/or pony rides, along with added promotions, including:
- July 12—RVA Day
- July 26—Sunrise at Colonial- PDJF Day
- August 9—Colonial Downs Festival of Racing with live concert from Grayson Torrence Band (Premium Racing Day)
- August 23—Wiener Dog Racing (Premium Racing Day)
- September 6— Old Dominion Derby Day featuring live performances by The Deloreans (Premium Racing Day)
- September 13—College Day
For more information on tickets, dining, and pricing, visit Colonial Downs on the web at www.colonialdowns.com.