The Del Mar Racetrack will be back in full stride when the Del Mar Fall Racing Festival kicks off next week on Friday, Nov. 9. Fans can expect elite Thoroughbred racing, delicious food and beverages, an exciting day for college students and a free reggae-rock concert from Pepper during the four-day Opening Weekend. The track will remain open on Veteran’s Day, Monday, Nov. 12.
Additional highlights of the week will include exclusive access into the Turf Club, as well as weekly food and drink specials:
Opening Day – Del Mar returns with its cool vibe for the fall on Friday, Nov. 9. Be part of the excitement on Opening Day, which will feature big bets, fall fashion, superb food and drinks and thrilling Thoroughbred racing. Gates open at 11 a.m. with first post at 12:30 p.m. Become a Diamond Club member and you’ll receive free admission, free seating, a free program and half-priced signature cocktails! In addition, all Diamond Club members who scan their cards on Opening Day will be entered into a drawing for a free package at the Fairmont Grand Hotel, including dinner for two and an overnight stay.
College Day – Saturday, Nov. 10 marks Del Mar’s annual College Day presented by Toyota. College students can enjoy free racetrack admission with valid student ID. Students can gain exclusive access to the college tailgate party in the Corona Beach House, which will include the best of both football and race horsing, live music from Red Bull DJs and special food and drink deals. Races begin at 12:30 p.m.
Pepper in Concert – Famous reggae-rock trio Pepper will take the stage on Saturday, Nov. 10 shortly after the final race of the day. Racetrack guests will receive free concert admission if they enter before the final race. Concert admission will cost $30 after the last race. All concerts are 18+.
Daybreak at Del Mar – On Saturday, Nov. 10, early risers can enjoy breakfast in the Clubhouse Terrace Restaurant while taking in scenic track views during Thoroughbreds’ morning workouts. As an additional perk, racing analyst and horsewoman Michelle Yu will be hosting a Q&A session during the workouts to provide insights and behind-the-scenes details about all things horse racing. Daybreak at Del Mar takes place from 8 to 10 a.m. every Saturday during the Fall Racing Festival. There is no charge for admission, but a $10 parking fee applies.
Taste of the Turf Club – On Sunday, Nov. 11, fans can enjoy the delectable menu of one of San Diego’s most celebrated chefs, Brian Malarkey, at the Turf Club. Seats are $100 per person and include: Turf Club admission, a Turf Club table for the day, choice of appetizer, entree, dessert and bottomless mimosas, Del Marys or Chandon. Attendees must comply with the Turf Club Dress Code. Tables are limited.
Free & Fun Sundays – Every Sunday in the Plaza de Mexico, Diamond Club members receive free admission and seating along with delicious $5 Cardiff Crack Tri-Tip sliders and refreshing $5 Coors Light Pints.
Veterans Day – Del Mar will conduct a special Veterans Day program on Monday, Nov. 12. Track admission will be free for Active Duty Military and Veterans with valid Military ID cards. Gates open at 11 a.m. with the first post at 12:30 p.m.
Racing during the Fall Racing Festival will take place Thursday through Sunday with the exception of Veteran’s Day on Monday, Nov. 12. First post will be 12:30 p.m., with the exception of Thanksgiving Day when first post will be 11 a.m. Admission at all gates is $6. Concerts are 18+ and free with paid racetrack admission prior to the start of the last race. Concert admission following the final race of the day is $30. For more information, call 858-755-1141 or visit delmarracing.com.
