what day is the dark day at saratoga race course

by Salvador Gerhold 7 min read

As a general rule, Saratoga Race Course is dark on all Mondays & Tuesdays throughout the season, except for Labor Day. Click here to find bars and restaurants in Saratoga where you can watch the races.

Facts for the 2022 Season:
Mondays and Tuesdays are "Dark": No Racing. Travers Day: August 27, 2022.

Full Answer

What day of the week is the Saratoga Race Course dark?

This Two-Day Dark Day Itinerary highlights different areas of Saratoga County to discover on Monday, and then things to do in the Spa City on Tuesday. Monday: Take a Day Trip to Explore New Areas We've rounded up four areas in Saratoga County worth checking out during the first dark day of the week, with suggestions on what to do and where to eat.

What time does Saratoga open horse racing?

5 Dark Day Adventures Off the Beaten Path. During a typical summer in Saratoga Springs, one of the liveliest hotspots is the historic Saratoga Race Course. The track’s season runs for eight weeks, and it is open daily except on Mondays and Tuesdays, also known as dark days. Since there is no horse racing action on Mondays and Tuesdays, they are the perfect opportunity to …

What does dark - no live racing mean?

On the next “dark day” at Saratoga Race Course, discover a new hobby at one of these local art studios and workshops. Enter a World of Pottery at Saratoga Clay Arts Center. Explore the wonderful world of clay, creation, and education at Saratoga Clay Arts Center in Schuylerville. Since 2011, this exceptional studio has introduced artists of ...

What time does Saratoga open for the 2021 season?

Jul 09, 2020 · Here are the six times Saratoga’s summer went completely dark. 1896: The dark summer of 1896 was in large part the result of rancor toward the track’s management, which eventually led to a downswing in race dates offered by The Jockey Club. The 1890s were unquestionably the worst period in Saratoga’s racing annals.

Do you have to wear a mask at Saratoga Race Track?

SARATOGA SPRINGS — All employees of the New York Racing Association must wear masks at Saratoga Race Course. The policy will apply to all vendors at the track too, NYRA spokesman Pat McKena said Sunday.Aug 23, 2021

What is Travers Day at Saratoga?

August 27The 2022 Travers Day is scheduled for August 27 and it will feature the legendary Travers Stakes (which dates back to 1864). Nicknamed Saratoga's Midsummer Derby, the Travers Stakes is a Grade 1 race for three-year-olds. This is the most popular day of the Saratoga summer racing meet.

What days of the week do they race at Saratoga?

The 40-day Saratoga Race Course summer meet, featuring the 95th running of the Grade 1 Whitney Handicap and the 153rd edition of the Grade 1 Travers Stakes, will open on Thursday, July 14, 2022 and conclude on Labor Day, Monday, September 5.Oct 22, 2021

Can you wear jeans to Saratoga race track?

No jeans, shorts, rompers, or abbreviated wear permitted. The Rail: Jackets and blazers are optional. Cargo shorts, halter tops, midriff tops, athletic wear, t-shirts, frayed or torn denim or shorts, and tennis shoes are not permitted.

Who won Travers?

Essential Quality(AP) — Belmont Stakes winner Essential Quality won the $1.25 million Travers Stakes on Saturday, holding off Midnight Bourbon in a stirring stretch duel at Saratoga Race Course for his eighth victory in nine career starts.Aug 28, 2021

What race is the oldest?

Belmont Stakes, oldest and longest of the three classic horse races (with the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes) that constitute the Triple Crown of American horse racing. The Belmont Stakes originated in 1867 and is named after the financier, diplomat, and sportsman August Belmont.

What time is the last race at Saratoga?

Gates open at 11:00 and Post time for the 1st race is at 1:00. Last races is done usually by 5:30 to 6:00.

Is Saratoga racing today?

The 2022 season for Saratoga Race Course begins with Opening Day on Thursday, July 14, 2022 and ends with Closing Day on Monday (Labor Day), September 5, 2022. There are five days of racing each week all season long (the Track is dark on Mondays & Tuesdays).

How long is Saratoga track season?

Your Racing Season Itinerary, Simplified The best time of year is upon us – horse racing season! For 8 weeks, beginning July 15th, this season is sure to bring excitement, and here at our downtown Saratoga's award-winning hotel, we couldn't be more ready!

Can I bring a cooler to Saratoga race track?

Coolers are permitted in the backyard picnic areas only and must be kept off tables. One cooler permitted per picnic table. Coolers may contain plastic bottles or cans and are subject to search by the NYRA security at any time.

Will Saratoga have fans in 2021?

Fans returned to Saratoga Race Course Thursday for the first time in two years. The fans walking through the gate this morning were the first spectators allowed since 2019 after racing was held in a largely empty racetrack last year because of the pandemic.Jul 15, 2021

Can you smoke at Saratoga Race Track?

You can walk around the track and smoke a cigar. It works perfectly.”Aug 29, 2015

Where is Ondawa Greens Golf Course?

Located in Cambridge, Ondawa Greens is an executive length, 9-hole golf course with fantastic views of the area. Owners Steve and Sue Greene are constantly improving this scenic course to make it fun for families, teams, and individuals.

Is Saratoga Race Course open?

The track’s season runs for eight weeks, and it is open daily except on Mondays and Tuesdays, also known as dark days.

Where is Saratoga Clay Arts Center?

Explore the wonderful world of clay, creation, and education at Saratoga Clay Arts Center in Schuylerville. Since 2011, this exceptional studio has introduced artists of all ages to pottery and clay artworks.

Where is chalk painting in Saratoga Springs?

Saratoga Chalked Painting Workshop is a home decor-focused art studio in Saratoga Springs that provides visitors with the guidance, inspiration, and tools to revive and customize various furniture pieces. Although you can stop by and purchase furniture, there’s nothing quite like painting your own pieces in the colors and styles you choose.

Where is Common Thread in Saratoga?

Located near the northern end of Broadway in downtown Saratoga, Common Thread Saratoga is a full-service yarn shop with a fantastic selection of yarns, patterns, books, needles, and accessories. Not only can they fulfill your fiber arts needs, but the store hosts fun and educational classes for all skill levels.

Is Saratoga Race Course closed?

Throughout summer in Saratoga, you may wonder what there is to do on days Saratoga Race Course is closed, also known as “dark days.” The answer is a lot! Despite the nickname, these days are prime opportunities to get out and either discover a new hobby or indulge in an existing one. The Saratoga area is full of places where you can unleash your creative side and have fun learning different arts and crafts.

Visit The Summer Place to Be!

Saratoga Race Course is an experience unlike any other and attracts visitors from across the country. With elite horses and prestigious races, it is a horse lover’s paradise. But this historic racecourse is not just for seasoned gamblers and millionaires.

Parking

First things first, where to park? There are lots of options with varying price points.

Admission Cost

There is a General Admission Fee paid by everyone upon entering Saratoga Race Course. General Admission does not come with Grandstand, Clubhouse, or other reserved seating. Seating does cost more.

Dress Code

Saratoga Race Course is one stylish place. Although no dress code is required for general admission and areas like the Grandstand or Backyard, it’s fun to dress up and make a day of it. Certain sections require specific dress, and are strictly enforced by management.

Dining

Grabbing a bite at Saratoga Race Course is easy and varies from casual to more formal atmospheres. So rest assured that even the pickiest of eaters can find something they will love.

Family Fun

Sundays at Saratoga Race Course are specifically family oriented. There are fun, educational activities held at the Coca-Cola Family Pavilion throughout the day. If you don’t happen to attend on a Sunday, there is still plenty for your little ones to do.

When did Saratoga Race Course reopen?

The track reopened in 1897, with Walbaum in a reduced role, and three years later, William Collins Whitney led a partnership group that purchased and revitalized the track and restored its reputation. Saratoga Race Course’s overgrown Winner’s Circle during World War II. (National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame)

When did racing return to Saratoga?

While his efforts to open the track during the war were in vain, racing did finally return to Saratoga on August 5, 1946, with a crowd of more than 15,000 on hand for the sport’s triumphant return. Previous Article. How the Native Dancer Statue Became Saratoga's Gateway. Next Article.

When did there stop racing at Saratoga?

It was announced on Closing Day, August 23, that there would be no racing at Saratoga in 1896 . Walbaum and his associates rejected the dates proposed by The Jockey Club, stating that there weren’t enough exclusive to Saratoga.

Who was the mayor of Saratoga?

Saratoga’s mayor at the time, Addison Mallery, fought for the local track to retain the race dates, arguing that Saratogians could walk to the races and that there would be ample local support for a summer meeting.

Who was the governor of New York when racing was banned?

New York Governor Charles Hughes spearheaded an anti-gambling crusade that resulted in the Hart-Agnew Law and eventually the Executive Liability Act, which eliminated any form of betting and effectively shut down New York racing. In October 1912, a decision by a State Supreme Court justice led to racing’s return.

What was the dark summer of 1896?

1896: The dark summer of 1896 was in large part the result of rancor toward the track’s management, which eventually led to a downswing in race dates offered by The Jockey Club. The 1890s were unquestionably the worst period in Saratoga’s racing annals. Beginning in 1892, the notorious Gottfried Walbaum was in charge, ...

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Week 1

  1. Thursday, July 14 - GIII Schuylerville and Wilton
  2. Friday, July 15 - GIII Forbidden Apple and Coronation Cup
  3. Saturday, July 16 - GI Diana and GIII Sanford
  4. Sunday, July 17 - GIII Quick Call
See more on saratoga.com

Week 2

  1. Wednesday, July 20 - GI A. P. Smithwick Memorial (Steeplechase) and Suzie O'Cain (NYB)
  2. Thursday, July 21 - Rick Violette (NYB)
  3. Friday, July 22 - GIII Lake George
  4. Saturday, July 23 - GIII Caress and GI Coaching Club American Oaks
See more on saratoga.com

Week 3

  1. Wednesday, July 27 - GII Honorable Miss Handicap
  2. Thursday, July 28 - Birdstone
  3. Friday, July 29 - Curlin (R)
  4. Saturday, July 30 - GI Alfred G. Vanderbilt Handicap and GII Jim Dandy
See more on saratoga.com

Week 4

  1. Wednesday, August 3 - Shine Again (R)
  2. Thursday, August 4 - Alydar (R)
  3. Friday, August 5 - GII National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame and GIII Troy Stakes
  4. Saturday, August 6 - Whitney Day- Fasig Tipton Lure (R), GII Glens Falls, GI Longines Test, GI Whitney (BC), GI Caesars Saratoga Derby Invitational
See more on saratoga.com

Week 5

  1. Wednesday, August 10 - Tale of the Cat (R)
  2. Thursday, August 11 - Galway
  3. Friday, August 12 - Evan Shipman Handicap (NYB), John Morrissey Handicap (NYB), Johnstone Mile (NYB), and Union Avenue Handicap (NYB)
  4. Saturday, August 13 - GI Fourstardave Handicap (BC) and GII Saratoga Special
See more on saratoga.com

Week 6

  1. Wednesday, August 17 - GI Jonathan Sheppard and NYSSS Cab Calloway Division (R)
  2. Thursday, August 18 - NYSSS Statue of Liberty Division (R)
  3. Friday, August 19 - Skidmore and Summer Colony (R)
  4. Saturday, August 20 - Alabama Day- GI Alabama, GII Lake Placid, and Smart N Fancy
See more on saratoga.com

Week 7

  1. Wednesday, August 24 - John's Call (R)
  2. Thursday, August 25 - Riskaverse (R)
  3. Friday, August 26 - Albany (NYB), Fleet Indian (NYB), Funny Cide presented by Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital (NYB), Seeking the Ante (NYB), West Point Handicap presented by Trustco Bank (NYB), and...
  1. Wednesday, August 24 - John's Call (R)
  2. Thursday, August 25 - Riskaverse (R)
  3. Friday, August 26 - Albany (NYB), Fleet Indian (NYB), Funny Cide presented by Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital (NYB), Seeking the Ante (NYB), West Point Handicap presented by Trustco Bank (NYB), and...
  4. Saturday, August 27 - Travers Day- GII Ballston Spa, GI Forego, GI H. Allen Jerkens Memorial, GI Personal Ensign (BC), GI Sword Dancer (BC), GI Travers

Week 8

  1. Wednesday, August 31 - GIII With Anticipation
  2. Thursday, September 1 - P.G. Johnson
  3. Friday, September 2 - Lucky Coin and GII Prioress
  4. Saturday, September 3 - GII Flower Bowl (BC), GI Jockey Club Gold Cup (BC), and GIII Saranac
See more on saratoga.com

Visit The Summer Place to Be!

Image
Saratoga Race Course is an experience unlike any other and attracts visitors from across the country. With elite horses and prestigious races, it is a horse lover’s paradise. But this historic racecourse is not just for seasoned gamblers and millionaires. It’s also a huge attraction for families, 20-somethings looking for a g…
See more on saratogaequinejournal.com

Parking

  • First things first, where to park? There are lots of options with varying price points. Handicapped parking is available in all lots affiliated with Saratoga Race Course.
See more on saratogaequinejournal.com

Admission Cost

  • Admission
    There is a General Admission Fee paid by everyone upon entering Saratoga Race Course. General Admission does not come with Grandstand, Clubhouse, or other reserved seating. Seating does cost more. 1. General and Grandstand Admission:$7 for adults, children 12 and under are free 2…
See more on saratogaequinejournal.com

Dress Code

  • Saratoga Race Course is one stylish place. Although no dress code is required for general admission and areas like the Grandstand or Backyard, it’s fun to dress up and make a day of it. Certain sections require specific dress, and are strictly enforced by management. 1. Clubhouse:No short shorts, cut offs, tank tops, or abbreviated wear. 2. Box Seats:Gentlemen, sui…
See more on saratogaequinejournal.com

Dining

  • Grabbing a bite at Saratoga Race Course is easy and varies from casual to more formal atmospheres. So rest assured that even the pickiest of eaters can find something they will love.
See more on saratogaequinejournal.com

Giveaway Days Save

  • Throughout the summer there are designated giveaway days in which the track hands out special items (while supplies last) to everyone with proof of admission. The schedule changes from year to year, as do the items. Some fun items from previous years include towels, hats, coolers, zip-up hoodies, T-shirts, blankets, and even clocks! NYRA announces the scheduled giveaway days earl…
See more on saratogaequinejournal.com

Family Fun

  • Sundays at Saratoga Race Course are specifically family oriented. There are fun, educational activities held at the Coca-Cola Family Pavilion throughout the day. If you don’t happen to attend on a Sunday, there is still plenty for your little ones to do.
See more on saratogaequinejournal.com