One of San Diego’s most beloved summer traditions is gearing up for another season, and the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is bringing some serious upgrades to the table.
The 2026 Summer Racing Season runs from Opening Day through Labor Day, with 37 stakes races, a packed events calendar, refreshed food and beverage offerings, and more ways than ever to enjoy a day at the track.
Opening Day Is Going to Be Something Special
The season kicks off with Opening Day presented by Caesars Sportsbook – San Diego’s unofficial start to summer. The fan-favorite Hats Contest and Opening Day Party are both back, but this year there’s a new addition worth knowing about.
For the first time, Del Mar is hosting a VIP party in the Seabiscuit Skyroom on the sixth floor of the Grandstand. Think unparalleled views of the track and ocean, hosted food and beverage, and elevated activations.
Whether you’ve been coming to Del Mar for years or this is your first Opening Day, this is the place to be.
New Friday Post Times and Fresh Programming
Fridays at Del Mar are getting a refresh in 2026, with races now starting earlier in the afternoon – giving you more time to settle in and soak up the scene. A few things to know about Fridays this season:
Friday Happy Hour: 25% off signature drinks and select beers each Friday
Turf Club Fridays: The ticketed weekly happy hour returns, including a table reservation, two drink tickets, and two appetizers
Turf Club Spirits Samples: Complimentary tastings from a rotating lineup of top spirits brands like Bulleit Bourbon, plus a featured cocktail at the bar each week
A Packed Trackside Events Calendar
Del Mar’s trackside events are always a highlight of the summer, and 2026 brings a mix of returning favorites and brand new additions. Here’s the full lineup:
July 18 – Tacos & Tequila
July 26 – Family Fun Day
August 1 – Uncorked: Del Mar Wine Fest
August 8 – Turf & Surf Fest
August 15 – Taste of New Orleans
August 29 – College Day
September 5 – BBQ & Beer Fest
September 6 – Family Fun Day
Elevated Food and Beverage All Season Long
Del Mar is once again partnering with Chef Bryn McArthur of Amaya at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar to curate a new coastal-inspired menu for Taste of the Turf Club – one of the only ways to experience the iconic Turf Club without a membership. Sunday brunch is also getting a refresh, with seasonal selections, specialty cocktails, and bottomless beverages on offer.
POP-Up Sundays returns as well, with rotating local vendors each week at Plaza De Mexico giving you a different way to experience classic local flavors.
See you there!
From a casual afternoon on the rail to a dressed-up Opening Day outing, Del Mar has something going on all summer long – and this season is shaping up to be one of the best yet.
📆 Select dates from July 17 – September 7, 2026
📍 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar
🎟️ Tickets on sale May 8, 2026
ℹ️ Visit their website here for more info
See you there, San Diego!