Del Mar racing season kicks off with opening day and an eventful summer ahead

Del Mar's 85th summer meet begins Saturday with a sold out Opening Day, marking the first time since the 1950s that the racing season will begin on Saturday rather than a weekday.

Del Mar officials say the shift to a weekend start was spurred in part by the July 7 conclusion of the San Diego County Fair, but races are expected to fall into the typical Thursday through Sunday pattern following this weekend's opening festivities and until the racing season's conclusion on Sept. 8.

Opening Day events will include many of the traditional affairs, such as the hat contest in the Plaza de Mexico and the Caesars Sportsbook Oceanside Stakes.

The hat contest will be from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. with hats judged in four categories -- best racing theme, most glamorous, best fascinator and best flowers. Fans can win a share of more than $4,000 in prizes. Winners will be announced after the sixth race.

The $100,000 Oceanside Stakes has drawn a field of 11 3-year-olds for the mile race on the turf course.

Gates will open at 11:30 a.m. and the first post is at 2 p.m.

Del Mar is also bringing back a number of fan favorite events to the track this year with highlights including:

• July 21: Beer Fest, featuring samples of brews, ciders and seltzers;

• Aug. 3: Uncorked Del Mar Wine Fest, featuring samples of more than 150 wines and gourmet food from San Diego vendors;

• Aug. 10: Tacos & Tequila, featuring tacos from San Diego's top vendors and samples of tequila, margaritas and cervezas;

• Aug. 17: Breeders' Cup Tumbler Giveaway, fans will receive a 2024 Breeders' Cup branded tumbler collectible item, available for free with paid admission while supplies last;

• Aug. 24: Taste of New Orleans Food & Music Festival, featuring samples of hurricanes, frozen daiquiris, swamp water, Abita beer and dozens of other craft beers, along with authentic Cajun cuisine and live Cajun music;

• Sept. 1: Family Fun Day, allowing fans to bring their family for free trackside attractions like face painting and kid-friendly games;

• Sept. 7: College Day: College students with identification will be admitted free and receive exclusive access to grandstand seating