Opening Day at the Del Mar Racetrack is one of the most popular and exciting events of the summer season. This year, Opening Day is on July 17th and is sure to go off with a bang – more than 45,000 race fans are expected to attend what is now known as one of the most fabulous, fashionable, and fun festivities in the west. Check out the schedule and summer concert series lineup at the Del Mar Racetrack 2014.
There are several activities happening throughout the day. The Opening Day Hats Contest will judge participants on creativity and style, and the victors could win a share of more than $5,000 in total prizes. Sign-up will be between 11am and 3pm, and all entrants will receive two free admission passes to the races. The categories this year will be Best Racing Theme, Funniest/Most Outrageous, Most Glamorous, Best Flowers/All Others, and Best Fascinator.
After that, the party is really on! Tickets for The Opening Day Party cost $30 per person and include an evening of festivities. There will be multiple DJs including a DJ in the Red Bull Tour Bus, which transforms into a massive sound stage; a microbrew beer garden; gourmet food trucks; large private areas for wagering and shaded seating, and photo booths and even more prize giveaways. Gates open at 10am and the first post for the races is at 2 pm. There will be a total of ten races happening throughout the day, so be sure to stay a while!
SEE ALSO: Where to Dine in Del Mar: Summer Edition
The summer concert series kicks off July 18th. The concerts are free with paid admission to the track, and begin right after the last race (generally around 4pm.) Here’s a complete list of who’s going to be there this year:
Friday, July 18: Jurassic 5
Friday, July 25: The Cult
Friday, August 1: Neon Trees
Saturday, August 2: Weezer
Friday, August 8: Steel Pulse
Saturday, August 9: Counting Crows
Friday, August 15: MAGIC!
Friday, August 22: Local Showcase (Silent Comedy, Transfer and Vokab Kompany)
Friday, August 29: Steve Aoki
Sunday, August 31: Reggae Fest ft. Ziggy Marley
Will you be attending Opening Day this year? Share photos of your festive hats with us on Facebook!
Emily Ruchlewicz
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