The Saratoga Race Course summer meet is one of the biggest events of the horse racing season. Below are answers to common questions about the upcoming Saratoga meet, including race dates, wagering, entries, post times, and major race days.
When does the Saratoga summer meet begin?
The 2026 Saratoga summer meet begins on Friday, July 3, 2026 and runs through Monday, September 7, 2026.
How many racing days are included in the Saratoga meet?
The 2026 Saratoga summer meet includes 46 days of live racing.
What days will Saratoga run?
Saratoga opens with the July 4th Racing Festival from Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5.
After opening weekend, Saratoga will run on a modified schedule before returning to its regular weekly format:
- July 9 through July 26: Racing is scheduled Thursday through Sunday.
- Beginning July 29: Racing is scheduled Wednesday through Sunday.
- Closing week: Racing is scheduled Wednesday, September 2 through Labor Day, Monday, September 7.
Race dates and post times are subject to change, so customers should always check the race schedule in their account on race day.
Can I wager on Saratoga races?
Yes. Saratoga races may be available for wagering where permitted.
To wager on Saratoga:
- Log in to your account.
- Select Today’s Races.
- Choose Saratoga from the available tracks.
- Select the race you want to wager on.
- Choose your wager type, horse selection, and wager amount.
- Review and submit your wager before the race closes.
When will Saratoga entries be available?
Entries are typically available after they are finalized and published by the track. Once available, Saratoga races will appear in the race schedule within your wagering account.
If you do not see Saratoga listed, check back closer to race day or confirm that live racing is scheduled for that date.
Where can I find Saratoga post times?
Post times may vary by race day. Current post times can be viewed by logging in to your account and selecting Saratoga from Today’s Races.
Opening weekend post times may differ from the regular schedule, so customers should check the race card on the day they plan to wager.
What are the major Saratoga race days?
Key dates for the 2026 Saratoga summer meet include:
Opening Day: Friday, July 3, 2026
Opening Day begins the Saratoga summer meet and includes the first race card of the season.
July 4th Racing Festival: Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5, 2026
The July 4th Racing Festival opens the Saratoga meet and includes major stakes races and special holiday events.
Whitney Day: Saturday, August 8, 2026
Whitney Day is one of Saratoga’s biggest race days and features the Grade 1 Whitney.
Travers Day: Saturday, August 29, 2026
Travers Day is the centerpiece of the Saratoga summer meet and features the Grade 1 Travers.
Closing Day: Monday, September 7, 2026
Closing Day marks the final day of the Saratoga summer meet.
What is the Travers Stakes?
The Travers Stakes is one of Saratoga’s most historic and important races. It is often considered one of the biggest races for 3-year-old Thoroughbreds after the Triple Crown season.
The 2026 Travers is scheduled for Saturday, August 29, 2026.
What is the Whitney Stakes?
The Whitney is one of Saratoga’s premier races for older horses. The 2026 Whitney is scheduled for Saturday, August 8, 2026.
Why do I not see Saratoga listed in Today’s Races?
Saratoga may not appear if:
- Saratoga is not racing that day.
- Entries have not been posted yet.
- The race card has not been added to the schedule yet.
- The race day has already ended.
- Wagering is not available in your location.
Customers should check the Saratoga racing calendar and return closer to race day.
Can I bet early on Saratoga races?
Advance wagering may be available for select Saratoga race cards once pools open. If advance wagering is available, the races will appear in the 'Bet Now' section.
Customers should review the race card carefully before submitting a wager.
What happens if a Saratoga race is delayed, canceled, or taken off the turf?
Race changes, scratches, surface changes, delays, and cancellations are managed by the track.
Customers can check the latest updates by reviewing:
- The Saratoga race card
- Scratches and changes
- Race status updates
- Official track announcements
If a race is canceled or a wager is impacted by a track decision, wagers will be settled according to official track rules and pari-mutuel wagering rules.
Where can I find Saratoga results and replays?
Customers can view results after races are official. Race replays may also be available when provided by the track.
To view results:
- Log in to your wagering account.
- Go to Results & Replays.
- Search for Saratoga.
- Select the date and race.
Will there be Saratoga promotions?
Saratoga promotions may be offered during the meet. Available offers will appear in the Offers or Promotions section of your account.
Customers should review the full terms and conditions for each promotion before opting in or participating.
Need help?
If you need assistance finding Saratoga races, viewing your wager, checking results, or accessing your account, please contact Player Services for help.