Learn About the 2026 Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Race Course
The 2026 Belmont Stakes is one of the oldest stakes races in North America and the oldest of the Triple Crown events. In 2026, this storied race returns to Saratoga Springs, NY, as part of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, giving fans a rare chance to experience one of horse racing’s most prestigious events at Saratoga Race Course.
Experience the 2026 Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Race Course
Due to the continued construction of the new Belmont Park, the 158th running of the Belmont Stakes will once again be held at Saratoga Race Course on Saturday, June 6, 2026. The race serves as the centerpiece of the five-day Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, which runs Wednesday, June 3 through Sunday, June 7. This marks the third and final year Saratoga will host the Belmont Stakes during Belmont Park’s redevelopment.
The Belmont Stakes Racing Festival features multiple days of high-profile stakes races, special events, and enhanced fan experiences, making it one of the most anticipated weeks on the racing calendar. Full race schedules and daily details are typically announced closer to the event.
Following the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, Saratoga Race Course will host a 46-day summer meet in 2026, including the July 4th Racing Festival and a modified racing schedule. This adjusted calendar is part of a temporary transition period, with Saratoga set to return to its traditional 40-day summer meet in 2027.
Presented by NYRA Bets, the Belmont Stakes will again offer a multimillion-dollar purse, reinforcing its standing as one of the most significant races in North American thoroughbred racing.
As the third leg of the Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes has defined champions and produced unforgettable moments since its first running in 1867. From legendary performances to dramatic finishes, the race remains a cornerstone of American horse racing history.
General Info for the 2026 Belmont Stakes & Belmont Stakes Racing Festival
Festival Gate Opening Times
- Wednesday, June 3: 11:00 AM
- Thursday, June 4: 11:00 AM
- Friday, June 5: 10:00 AM
- Saturday, June 6: 9:00 AM
- Sunday, June 7: 11:00 AM
Daily Racing Post Times
- Wednesday, June 3: First Post Time: 12:35 PM | Final Post: 5:48 PM
- Thursday, June 4: First Post Time: 12:35 PM | Final Post: 6:16 PM
- Friday, June 5: First Post Time: 11:45 AM | Final Post: 7:43 PM
- Saturday, June 6 (Belmont Stakes Day): First Post Time: 11:00 AM | Final Post: 8:02 PM (The 158th running of the Grade 1 Belmont Stakes goes off at 7:04 PM ET).
- Sunday, June 7: First Post Time: 12:35 PM | Final Post: 5:47 PM
Special Racetrack Policies
The New York Racing Association, Inc. has announced specific on-track policies for the 2026 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga Race Course.
Please note that grounds access rules have changed: there is no early-morning access to the grounds, and re-entry is prohibited once gates have officially opened each day.
Wednesday, June 3 & Sunday, June 7 Guidelines:
- Coolers & Alcohol: Outside alcohol is permitted. Coolers up to 18" x 20" are allowed, but all ice must be pre-sealed in bags.
- Gear: Temporary furniture (folding chairs, pop-up tents, folding tables) and wagons/hand carts are permitted.
Thursday, June 4 through Saturday, June 6 Restrictions:
- Outside Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited from being carried into the venue.
- Coolers: Permitted but must be no larger than 12" x 18" (limit one per guest). Outside food and soft drinks are allowed, but all ice must be pre-sealed in bags.
- Bags: Backpacks and handbags must not exceed 16" x 16" x 8".
- Furniture & Carts: Pop-up tents, folding tables, wagons, and hand carts are prohibited. Fans are limited to a maximum of one folding chair per person.
Prohibited Items (All Days): Glass containers, grills, umbrellas, weapons, confetti, fireworks, and illegal substances are strictly banned throughout the entire festival.
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