On Saturday, August 24, Saratoga Race Course will present the 150th Runhappy Travers Stakes, also known as the Mid-Summer Derby. Although Travers Day is the highlight of summer at Saratoga, fans can look forward to all kinds of fun events, amazing races, and more throughout the week. Check out what’s happening below, and plan a trip or two to the historic racetrack!
Wednesday, August 21
The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) will celebrate the start of Travers Week by raising a commemorative Runhappy Travers 150 flag in the racetrack’s infield at 11:30am.
Saratoga Stakes Race: John’s Call
Place your bets for the John’s Call!
On New York Sports Day, fans will have the opportunity to learn about the many sports teams and leagues based in the Capital Region. From 11:00am-5:00pm, the Coca-Cola Saratoga Pavilion will feature exhibits and activities from local sports teams.
Stewart’s Ice Cream Eating Contest
Do you scream for ice cream? If so, then put your ice cream eating skills to the test in the annual Stewart’s Ice Cream Eating Contest at the track. Contestants will battle to see who can eat a pint of ice cream the fastest.
Race Course Giveaway Day – Saratoga Beach Towel
It’s time for the third Giveaway Day at Saratoga Race Course this season! The giveaway item is a circular Saratoga beach towel presented by Upstate Ford Dealers, and it will be available this Wednesday while supplies last.
Thursday, August 22
Saratoga Stakes Races: Riskaverse & New York Turf Writers Cup
Place your bets for the Riskaverse & New York Turf Writers Cup!
Want to sample a great selection of wine and spirits produced right here in New York State? If so, then stop by the Coca-Cola Saratoga Pavilion from 12:00pm-5:00pm for Taste NY: Wine & Spirits. Guests will be able to enjoy five samples for $5.
Sample drinks featuring Don Julio tequila from 3:00pm-5:00pm outside the entrance of The Stretch.
The Low Roller Challenge will take place on Thursdays and Sundays at Saratoga Race Course. This is a chance for aspiring handicappers to experience the excitement of tournament play for $40. Registration will begin at 11:00am near Fourstardave Sports Bar.
Friday, August 23
Saratoga Stakes Races: Albany, Fleet Indian, Funny Cide, Seeking the Ante, West Point & Yaddo
Place your bets for the Albany, Fleet Indian, Funny Cide, Seeking the Ante, West Point & Yaddo! These six stakes races on New York Breeders’ Showcase Day will kick off another great Travers weekend.
Sample craft beers and ciders produced by New York State breweries and cideries during this Friday’s Taste NY: Craft Beer & Cider. From 12:00pm-5:00pm, you can enjoy five samples for $5 in the Coca-Cola Saratoga Pavilion.
Saturday, August 24
Saratoga Stakes Races: Travers Day
Place your bets for the Runhappy Travers, Sword Dancer, Personal Ensign presented by Lia Infiniti, Forego presented by Encore Boston Harbor, Ketel One Ballerina, H. Allen Jerkens Memorial presented by Runhappy, and the Woodford Reserve Ballston Spa. Travers Day is Saratoga Race Course’s biggest racing event of the year, so don’t miss out!
Saratoga Bridges Travers Day at the Races
Join Saratoga Bridges for their 30th Travers Day at the Races! Your ticket will include general admission to the Clubhouse, premium seating at the Easy Goer Restaurant, a delicious buffet and beverage service, a complimentary cocktail, and a Post Parade Program. Please note that this event sells out every year, and reservations are required in advance.
Shop for women’s and men’s apparel and accessories during Fashion Saturdays at the Coca-Cola Saratoga Pavilion. Fashion Saturdays will run from 11:00am-5:00pm and feature a variety of local retailers.
Woodford Reserve Bourbon Saturdays
Visit the Jim Dandy Bar from 3:00pm-5:00pm and enjoy specialty drinks and selections from Woodford Reserve.
Sample the new Ketel One Botanicals from 3:00pm-5:00pm outside the entrance to The Stretch.
Sunday, August 25
Saratoga Stakes Race: Better Talk Now
Place your bets for the Better Talk Now!
The Low Roller Challenge will take place on Thursdays and Sundays at Saratoga Race Course. This is a chance for aspiring handicappers to experience the excitement of tournament play for $40. Registration will begin at 11:00am near Fourstardave Sports Bar.
Bring the kids to the Coca-Cola Saratoga Pavilion on Sunday for family-friendly activities, games, attractions, and more. The Berkshire Bank Family Sundays event series will be held from 11:00am-5:00pm. The theme for this week is Animal Adventure Day!
Bubbles and Brunch at The Rail at the 1863 Club
Enjoy mimosas, Bloody Marys, brunch, and live acoustic music at this Sunday’s Bubbles and Brunch at The Rail at the 1863 Club. Tickets are $75 per person.
