Racers worldwide gather for New Kent County’s 2025 Festival of Racing
VENN
NEW KENT COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Colonial Downs is preparing for its biggest day of racing ahead of the 2025 Festival of Racing presented by New Kent County.
According to a release, this is the biggest day of thoroughbred racing in Virginia history and will feature horses, jockeys and race teams from around the globe -- as well as 2024 Kentucky Derby winner "Mystik Dan."
Competitors will compete for more than $2.5 million in prize money in over 12 races including the Arlington Million with its $1 million purse, the Beverly D. and Secretariat Stakes with $500,000 purse and more.
2024 Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan will make his turf debut alongside Jockey Brian Hernandez, and 2023 Virginia Derby winner "Integration" will make his American debut with jockey and 2025 Kentucky Derby winner Junior Alvarado.
The 2025 Festival of Racing will also include the following:
- Special tributes to Virginia's veteran and military communities
- Live music from American Idol contestant and New Kent's own, Grayson Torrence, during race card
- Classic race day hat contest with the winner receiving a table for four to the 2026 Virginia derby
- Commemorative tubler giveaway (while supplies last)
- 15 ticket purchasers will recieve a free $100 Win bet (must purchase tickets by 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 8 to qualify).
- Other family friendly activities include:
- Local food trucks
- Face painting
- A petting zoo
General admission tickets are still available for $5, and are free for children five and under. Tickets can be purchased here.
