The Del Mar Racetrack is famously known for its vibrant summer season, where the surf meets the turf and provides a great (not to mention, gorgeous) spot for a day of fun. This year, an additional season has been added that will surely deliver on this reputation. The Bing Crosby Season will run from November 7th to November 30th, 2014.
Opening Day is November 7th and much like its summer counterpart, will feature a who’s who of excitement, style, music and more. This all-day kickoff party will feature DJs, a beer garden, gourmet food trucks, photo booths, prize giveaways and more!
Let’s not forget about foundation of the racetrack—the races! Fourteen stakes races will serve as the touchstones for the new season. There will be an emphasis on turf racing (with a total of 9 turf races on the agenda) including its two top offerings – the $300,000 Hollywood Derby and the $300,000 Matriarch. Del Mar will race Friday through Sunday in its first week, then Thursday through Sunday for the remaining three.
In addition to the stakes, race goers can take part in a ton of additional events that appeal to all—there will certainly be something for everyone, all under a blanket of fantastic California fall weather.
All Thursdays are Senior Days, meaning admission is free for those 62 and over. Enjoy feeling like a Hollywood hotshot with free admission, a free official program and a free seat.
Free and Easy Fridays are just as described—racegoers receive free admission and a free seat, along with half prices beer, soda and hot dogs. You must be a Diamond Club member to take part, but the good news is that membership is free. Simply sign up at the Diamond Club booth before entering the Stretch Run Admission Gates.
Saturdays at the track are jam-packed!
On Saturday, November 15th, there will be a College Tailgate Party, where the track meets the tailgate and free admission to college students with a valid I.D. Take part in good times, D.J. battles, libations, race horses and football—the best of it all in one spot! Following the races is Reggae Fest, a concert featuring The B-Side Players, Vokab Company and headliner, Iration.
On Saturday, November 22nd there will be an awesome Fall Food Truck Festival, featuring over 40 food trucks all in one location to serve up a variety of Southern California’s best fare. Free admission to the food truck area comes with paid racetrack admission, and the eclectic food choices are delivered at awesome prices.
Thursday, November 27th is Thanksgiving and wouldn’t be complete without the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s version of a Turkey Trot. The Family Mile Fun Run will start at 8am and benefit the local Helen Woodward Animal Center. This will be a great time to support an amazing cause with friends and family. Then stay for the races at a special 11am post time.
Saturday, November 29th brings Beer and Cider Fest, where racegoers can sample from a variety of more than 100 top San Diego craft brews, special seasonal beers and a variety of tasty ciders. Following the races (and free with racetrack admission) there will be a concert featuring alternative rock band, Cake.
Every Sunday offers all access to the NFL with Paddock Football Lounges. In addition to the races, watch the day’s featured games plus the Red Zone channel at 17 Hands Pub and the Paddock Tavern.
The Bing Crosby Season ends on November 30th with the final excitement and winnings of the reason, as well as some great Closing Day Festivities.
For more information and an up-to-date racing schedule, visit https://www.dmtc.com.
Photo by Nathan Rupert