Join West Point Thoroughbreds for the 2026 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga Race Course, running Wednesday, June 3 through Sunday, June 7, with the 158th running of the Belmont Stakes set for Saturday, June 6. Saratoga once again hosts this five-day celebration of world-class racing, marquee stakes action, and a full week of events both on track and around town.
From morning training and partner gatherings to hospitality guidance, travel planning, and local recommendations, we’re here to help you make the most of one of the summer’s premier racing events.
WPT Partner Events
Morning Training on the Backside: We invite our partners and friends to join the WPT team on the backside on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday mornings to take in training hours during one of Saratoga’s great traditions. Find us at the Morning Line coffee stand, accessible through the Nelson Avenue gate across from the Horseshoe, from approximately 7:00 to 10:00 a.m. each morning.
NYRA has implemented a strict pass access policy for backstretch access Belmont week, which differs from the usual Saratoga meet gate list procedure. If you plan to attend, please be sure to RSVP to Danielle so that we can accommodate you. There will be no gate list – so if you, or any of your guests, do not have a badge, it is imperative that we know you are attending.
WPT Get-Together at the Post Bar: We will also host a casual WPT get-together at Post Bar on Thursday, June 4 from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. Stop by, bring your guests, and catch up with the team before the weekend’s biggest racing action begins. RSVP to Danielle.
Tickets and Admission
While West Point Thoroughbreds will not be facilitating ticket purchases directly, we are happy to help answer questions regarding seating options, hospitality, and race-day planning. All 2026 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival tickets are on sale now.
Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance and have their mobile tickets readily available upon arrival. NYRA lists Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday gate openings at 11:00 a.m., Friday at 10:00 a.m., and Saturday at 9:00 a.m.
Tickets are available to purchase online in many of your favorite seating areas:
- Premium Dining includes the Turf Terrace, the Porch, Cutwater Stretch, Easy Goer, The Rail at 1863, and Pinnacle Suite
- Reserved Seating in the Clubhouse or Backyard Table
- General Admission
- Belmont Experiences offering VIP ticket packages
Please note that General Admission does not guarantee a reserved seat, so guests looking for a dedicated place to sit should secure reserved seating or hospitality in advance.
Parking
Parking is not included with event admission and we recommend arranging as soon as possible. Purchase in advance here and review official event information before arriving at Saratoga Race Course.
NY Owner’s Credentials
Owner’s badges will not be valid for admission on Saturday, 6/6. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Badges will be valid for General Admission on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday. Family badges will be honored this year.
Owner’s badges will be honored for parking on each day except for Friday and Saturday.
For Partners with horses entered during the festival, credential details will be communicated separately through entry alerts and race-specific coordination.
Security and Entry Policies
Guests should expect security screening upon entry and should arrive with their tickets ready to scan. There is no re-entry once gates open for the day, so please plan accordingly before entering the track.
The Belmont Stakes Racing Festival is also cashless for admissions, parking, food, and beverage purchases, with credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payment accepted.
Security policies vary slightly by day, but NYRA’s 2026 event information notes the following important reminders:
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Coolers are limited to 12″ x 18″ maximum, one per guest, with medical exemptions noted by NYRA.
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Outside alcohol is not permitted Thursday through Saturday.
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Oversized bags, backpacks, glass containers, grills, weapons, fireworks, drones, and professional-grade camera equipment are prohibited.
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There is no storage for prohibited items at the venue.
Helpful links:
Transportation, Accommodations, and Dining
The most convenient airport for Saratoga is Albany International Airport. Saratoga is generally an easy town to navigate, but race-week demand can make rideshare service slower and less predictable during peak periods, so guests may wish to consider a rental car or pre-arranged transportation.
For accommodations, downtown Saratoga is the most convenient option for guests who want to be within walking distance of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. For those prioritizing value or availability, nearby areas such as Malta, Ballston Spa, Clifton Park, Glens Falls, and the Albany airport corridor can also be worth exploring.
Recommended places to stay:
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The Adelphi Hotel for a luxury downtown stay.
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Embassy Suites and Hampton Inn for centrally located convenience.
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Hyatt Place Saratoga/Malta for a practical option just outside town.
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Nearby vacation rentals through Airbnb or Vrbo for groups or longer stays.
Saratoga’s restaurant scene is one of the great perks of Belmont week, and reservations should be made as early as possible. OpenTable and Resy are great sites to help choose a spot to eat. Need further inspiration? Here is a list of top restaurants.
Around Saratoga
Saratoga offers plenty to enjoy beyond the races, including several special events hosted throughout the week. Here are a few suggestions for guests:
- Take a stroll down Broadway for shopping, cocktails, and people-watching between race events.
- Visit Saratoga Spa State Park for a relaxing break, scenic walking trails, and the area’s signature mineral springs.
- Plan to be in town for Belmont on Broadway on Wednesday, June 3, a free downtown concert scheduled from 7:00pm to 10:00pm in front of the Saratoga Springs City Center.
- Purchase tickets for the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame’s Belmont Bash – celebrating the connections of 2025 Belmont winner, Sovereignty. The event will take place Thursday, June 4 from 7:00pm – 11:00pm at the Canfield Casino.
- Attend The Belmont Ball benefitting equine charities, hosted at the Fasig-Tipton Sales Grounds on Friday, June 5 following the conclusion of the races – approximately 6:45pm – 10:00pm.
Stay Connected
We are excited to spend Belmont Festival week with our partners and friends in Saratoga. For questions about WPT gatherings, race-week planning, or partner-related logistics, please reach out to Danielle at [email protected].
