California's holiday traditions often involve a trip to the mall, but for horse racing enthusiasts, it's a short walk away. The 90th anniversary of Santa Anita is set to celebrate next week, with Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan returning to the track. This article takes you through the various graded stakes races and the talented horses set to compete on the first two days of the meet.

Uncover the Thrills of Santa Anita's Opening Day Races

Thursday, Dec. 26 - Malibu Stakes (G1)

Trainer Kenny McPeek is bringing Mystik Dan back after a 6 1/2-month break. The Goldencents colt last raced in the 2024 Belmont Stakes, finishing 8th. He'll make the 1,885-mile drive from Louisiana, with an overnight stop at Zia Park. Other probable starters include Santa Anita Derby winner Stronghold, Breeders' Cup Sprint runner-up Bentornato, and Grade 2 victor Raging Torrent. Mystik Dan will be racing less than a mile for the first time since his maiden win 13 months ago.This race is a high-profile tune-up for the $3 million Pegasus World Cup Invitational next month at Gulfstream Park. The 7-furlong Malibu Stakes will showcase the talents of these talented 3-year-olds.

Thursday, Dec. 26 - Santa Anita Derby (G1)

Stronghold, the winner of the Santa Anita Derby, is expected to enter this race. He followed his Derby win with a 2nd place in the 1 3/16-mile Preakness and a tiring 8th in the 1 1/4-mile Belmont Stakes. Philip D’Amato's Bentornato, who finished 2nd in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint, and Doug F. O’Neill's Raging Torrent, who finished 7th in the same race, are also probable starters.These 3-year-olds are gearing up for another exciting showdown on the opening day of Santa Anita.

Friday, Dec. 27 - Robert J. Frankel (G3)

Philip D’Amato's Hang The Moon had a successful 2024, winning three of her first four races after a 10-month break. She won Grade 2 victories in the 1 1/8-mile John C. Mabee at Del Mar and the 1 1/4-mile Rodeo Drive at Santa Anita. But her last-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf was a setback. Now, she's set to compete in the Robert J. Frankel (G3), a grade drop for the 4-year-old Uncle Mo filly.Other probable starters include Neil D. Drysdale's Nadette, who finished 8th in the 2024 Matriarch G1, and Patrick Gallagher's Yerwanthere, who finished 6th in the 2024 Santa Ana G3.These fillies and mares are ready to make their mark on the Santa Anita track on Friday.