On December 15, the Virginia Horse Racing Commission approved an expanded and adjusted 48-day live racing schedule at Colonial Downs for 2026, marking the most live races in the track’s nearly 30-year history. To enhance accessibility for Virginia race fans and families, a new Thursday through Sunday race weekend will be introduced during each summer race week, with a standard start time of 12:30 p.m.
The season kicks off with a special three-day event from March 12-14, highlighted by the $500,000 Virginia Derby on Saturday, March 14. Following a sold-out 2025 event that attracted over 8,000 fans, the Virginia Derby remains Virginia’s sole Kentucky Derby qualifying race, with the winner earning a spot in the upcoming Kentucky Derby, held at the historic Churchill Downs. Nearly all reserved tickets for the Virginia Derby have been sold, and $5 general admission tickets are also selling quickly—fans are encouraged to secure their tickets through www.ColonialDowns.com.
Frank Hopp, Senior Director of Race Operations, expressed excitement about the expanded schedule, noting the significance of the Kentucky Derby qualifier, the new race weekend format, and the largest racing calendar in the track’s history. Following the March tournament, the season will continue with 45 days of live racing Thursdays through Sundays, starting June 25 and concluding with a special Labor Day race on September 7. Summer highlights include the Colonial Downs Horse Racing Festival featuring the Arlington Million and Old Dominion Derby, with major prize races that promise to draw significant attention.
Throughout the season, fans can enjoy various promotions, giveaways, and special food and beverages designed to appeal to both horse racing enthusiasts and new spectators alike.
Fan Take: This exciting expansion at Colonial Downs signals a bright future for horse racing in Virginia, creating more opportunities for fans to engage with the sport. By increasing live race days and hosting high-profile events like the Kentucky Derby qualifier, Colonial Downs is poised to elevate the visibility and popularity of thoroughbred racing in the region.
