Del Mar Racing is Back for Its 87th Summer and the Lineup is Packed
San Diego’s unofficial start to summer is here. The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club kicks off its 87th summer meet with Opening Day and a packed calendar of events, dining experiences, and trackside traditions that run through Labor Day weekend.
Here’s everything happening in the first two weeks of the season.
Opening Day at Del Mar Racetrack
SoCal’s biggest party returns with Del Mar’s iconic opening day on July 17th. The day includes an Opening Day Hats Contest and The Party presented by Pacifico – a high-energy trackside experience with live DJs, specialty cocktails, and more.
New for 2026, the Seabiscuit Society VIP Party debuts in the Grandstand’s sixth-floor Skyroom, offering premium hospitality and curated cuisine for those looking to elevate the experience.
Frozen Margaritas, Tacos, and a Day at the Races
A fan-favorite tradition returns the day after Opening Day. The Tacos and Tequila Festival brings San Diego’s best taco vendors, frozen margaritas, refreshing cervezas, and more to the track for a 21+ afternoon that has become one of the season’s most anticipated events.
The Lineup That Keeps Getting Better
Del Mar’s programming gives you plenty of reasons to come back throughout the season:
- Taste of the Turf Club – Every Sunday. Del Mar’s signature brunch returns with a refreshed menu curated by Chef Bryn McArthur of Amaya at Fairmont Grand Del Mar – Grilled Lamb Lollipops, Jidori Chicken and Waffles, handcrafted cocktails, and panoramic racetrack views. Dress code applies.
- POP-Up Sundays – Every Sunday. Plaza de Mexico hosts a rotating lineup of San Diego restaurants throughout the afternoon. July 19 features Brandt Beef BBQ Smoked Brisket and July 26 brings North Italia.
- Free and Easy Thursdays – Every Thursday. Diamond Club members enjoy complimentary general admission and seating, plus $5 Michelob ULTRA drafts, Brandt Beef hot dogs, and refillable sodas.
- Turf Club Fridays – Every Friday. An elevated weekly happy hour with curated appetizers, handcrafted cocktails, and track views in one of Del Mar’s most exclusive settings. Dress code applies.
- Friday Happy Hour – Every Friday. New for 2026 – first race time moves to 2 PM, with 25% off all signature cocktails and select beers until 4 PM.
- Taste of New Orleans – Saturday, August 15, 1 PM – 6 PM. Enjoy signature Southern sips, feast on Cajun favorites like gumbo, po’boys and fresh beignets, and groove to high-energy brass bands, a festive mini parade, and Bourbon Street-style surprises.
The Family Outing That Delivers for Everyone
Del Mar’s Family Fun Day is back with free kids’ games, face painting, inflatable attractions, and activities alongside a full day of racing. Kids 17 and under get free admission.
See you there!
World-class racing, elevated dining, and a full calendar of events on the San Diego coast. The Del Mar summer season is one of the city’s best annual traditions.
📆 Select dates through Friday, July 17 – Monday, September 7, 2026
📍 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar
🎟️ Grab your tickets here
ℹ️ Take a closer look here
See you there, San Diego!
