Colonial Downs to race 48 days in 2026 * The Racing Biz

Colonial Downs will race 48 days in 2026

• Press release
• December 15, 2025

Today, the Virginia Racing Commission approved an expanded and modified 48-day live racing season for Colonial Downs Racetrack in 2026. This will be the most live racing days ever held in a single season at Colonial Downs in its nearly thirty-year history.

To make live racing more accessible to Virginia racing fans and families, each race week throughout the summer will include an additional day of racing on the weekend with a new schedule of Thursday through Sunday. The standard post time for race days is 12:30 PM.

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The season opens with a special three-day Virginia Derby match on March 12 and 14, anchored by the $500,000 Virginia Derby on Saturday, March 14. After a sold-out 2025 race that drew more than 8,000 racing fans to Colonial Downs, the Virginia Derby will once again serve as Virginia’s only Kentucky Derby qualifying race, with the winning horse securing a spot in the field for the 152.^i.e Kentucky Derby at historic Churchill Downs.

Nearly all reserved tickets for the Virginia Derby are sold out and $5 General Admission tickets are selling quickly. Fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets today at www.ColonialDowns.com to be a part of this iconic day in Virginia sports.

“With a Kentucky Derby qualifier, new weekend racing days and the largest racing schedule in the track’s history, 2026 promises to be an unforgettable season at Colonial Downs,” said Frank Hopf, Senior Director of Racing Operations. “We can’t wait to welcome racing fans and riders from across the country to Virginia for another season of excitement, fun and competition at Virginia’s premier thoroughbred track.”

After the March meeting, the racing season continues with 45 days of live racing every Thursday through Sunday from June 25 until a special race day on Labor Day, Monday, September 7. The summer meeting includes the annual Colonial Downs Festival of Racing featuring the iconic Arlington Million; the Old Dominion derby; and additional high-profile, high-stakes races throughout the summer.

Throughout the season, guests will find a variety of promotions, giveaways and special food and beverage options for racing enthusiasts, new fans and families.

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