The historic Union Avenue track in Saratoga Springs is gearing up to host two major racing festivals, including the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival in June and the July 4th Racing Festival. Organizers are making extensive preparations, including renovations and staffing efforts, to ensure these events will be memorable and economically beneficial. The New York Racing Association (NYRA) has launched a recruitment drive to fill numerous positions, while local businesses anticipate significant economic gains from the influx of visitors.

Paving the Way for a Memorable Belmont Stakes

The upcoming Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga Race Course promises an exceptional experience for both attendees and participants. With ongoing renovations at Belmont Park, this event takes on added significance. The race organizers are working diligently to assemble a dedicated temporary workforce to manage various aspects of the festival. Last year’s event contributed substantially to the local economy, generating an estimated $150 million in revenue. This year, organizers aim to enhance the overall experience by adjusting schedules and improving logistics.

To ensure the success of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, NYRA has embarked on an ambitious hiring campaign to fill approximately 750 roles. These positions range from maintenance and security personnel to hospitality staff. The event, spanning five days from June 4-8, is expected to draw visitors from across the state and beyond. Business leaders are particularly excited about the economic impact, noting that hotels from Albany to Lake George were fully booked during last year’s festival. Adjustments such as starting the concert later in the evening are being made to allow more time for patrons to enjoy local dining options before the festivities begin. This thoughtful planning underscores the commitment to creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

Celebrating Tradition with the July 4th Racing Festival

In addition to the Belmont Stakes, Saratoga Race Course will also host the July 4th Racing Festival, which runs from July 3-6. This event adds to the rich tradition of horse racing in the area, complementing the 40-day summer meet. Local business leaders view these festivals as opportunities to showcase the unique charm of Saratoga Springs while boosting the local economy. The combination of prestigious races and festive activities makes these events stand out as must-attend occasions for racing enthusiasts.

The July 4th Racing Festival offers a shorter yet highly anticipated series of races, adding a boutique feel to the proceedings. The condensed schedule enhances the exclusivity and excitement surrounding each day of competition. Organizers are keen to maintain the traditional appeal of racing at The Spa, ensuring that every moment is special. By pairing these festivals with the extended summer meet, Saratoga Race Course aims to provide a diverse and engaging calendar of events throughout the season. Visitors can look forward to a total of 49 live racing days, making Saratoga a premier destination for horse racing aficionados.