When Is Live Racing at Belmont Park and What Major Events Are Scheduled?

Live racing at Belmont Park runs weekly during the 2026 Fall Meet, from September 18 through December 6, 2026. Looking further ahead, the 2027 Belmont Stakes is set for June 5, 2027, and the 2027 Breeders' Cup returns to Belmont Park on October 29–30, 2027. This applies to anyone planning a visit around live racing or a marquee event; if you want a specific race day's post time or stakes lineup, check the track's calendar, since schedules can vary by day.

2026 Fall Meet: Weekly Live Racing

The Fall Meet is the current season of live thoroughbred racing at the newly reopened and reimagined Belmont Park in Elmont, NY, less than an hour from New York City. Racing is held every week from September 18 to December 6, 2026.

A typical race day follows this pattern:

Some days differ. For example, NY-Bred Showcase Day opens gates at 11:00 a.m. with a 12:05 p.m. first post and 11 races, including stakes such as the Empire Classic (NYB), Hudson (NYB), and Ticonderoga (NYB). Always confirm the day's card before you go.

A Sample Weekend: October 23–25

• Fri, Oct 23 — Live racing; gates 11:00 a.m., first post 1:10 p.m., 9 races, stakes include the Sands Point and Perfect Sting.
• Sat, Oct 24 — NY-Bred Showcase Day; gates 11:00 a.m., first post 12:05 p.m., 11 races.
• Sun, Oct 25 — Live racing; gates 11:00 a.m., first post 1:10 p.m., 9 races, stakes include the Glen Cove.

Major Upcoming Events

2027 Belmont Stakes — June 5, 2027

The Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown, returns home to the all-new Belmont Park. Tickets are on sale now.

2027 Breeders' Cup — October 29–30, 2027

For the first time in over two decades, the Breeders' Cup World Championships returns to Belmont Park. This is a two-day event, so plan for both dates if you want the full experience.

Planning Your Visit

• Tickets: Fall 2026 tickets are on sale now. General Admission starts at $7; Grandstand Seating starts at $50/day and includes a $25 food-and-beverage credit. Premium options include the Turf Club Restaurant, The Overlook, The Stretch View, Box Seats, and Champion Suites.
• Weekly deal: "3/2/1 Wednesdays" offers $3 admission, $2 parking, and one program included.
• Before you go: Check the calendar for the day's first post and race count, review the grounds map, food and beverage options, guest policies, and transportation and parking guidance.
• Race-day information: Entries, results, scratches and changes, live streaming, and expert picks are published on the site.

If your goal is a casual day at the races, any Fall Meet date works—confirm the post time first. If you're planning around a signature event, book early for the 2027 Belmont Stakes (June 5) and the 2027 Breeders' Cup (October 29–30).