The Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots, the nation’s second-oldest operating racetrack and a historic pillar of New Orleans sporting tradition, will kick off its 154th Thoroughbred racing season on Thursday, November 20. The 2025-26 season runs through March 22, 2026, and brings with it a blend of beloved racing traditions, new fan experiences, and a slate of venue upgrades designed to elevate the guest experience.
Guests can expect a full calendar of live racing and special events, including the 101st running of the Thanksgiving Classic and the family-favorite Exotic Animal Races, alongside newly introduced programming like the “Clash of the Colleges” Twilight Races. Tickets for Thanksgiving Classic Day are already available, while tickets for additional racing days and special events go on sale Friday, November 7 at 10 a.m. CT.
Major Renovations Unveiled Opening Day
When gates open November 20, fans will encounter a transformed Fair Grounds campus. The venue has undergone significant enhancements, including:
Newly renovated paddock with improved drainage, elegant pavers, landscaping, and a new horse sculpture and coin fountain benefiting equine rehabilitation organizations.
Ultra Lounge overlooking the paddock, offering a private bar, high-end décor, and a social lounge setting for private events and photo-friendly moments.
Refreshed Tenacious Bar on the fourth floor with upgraded finishes and paddock views.
Modernized slot floor with new carpeting, color palette, paint, and upgraded restrooms (to be completed by year’s end).
Relocated Race Day Production area on the third floor, giving guests the chance to interact with on-air hosts and visit behind the scenes.
Updated Winner’s Circle featuring new pavers and landscaping to enhance post-race ceremonies and photo ops.
“These enhancements are a true reflection of our ongoing commitment to providing guests, horsemen and fans with the best experience possible,” said Cathy Beeding, President and General Manager of Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots. “We look forward to showcasing these enhancements through our amazing programming and providing a space to create unforgettable memories for our guests.”
Full Season of Special Events
The 154th season brings a mix of time-honored racing days, family-friendly programming, and new themed events:
| Date & Time | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Nov. 27 — 12 p.m. | Thanksgiving at the Fair Grounds / 101st Thanksgiving Classic | Racing, dining, and holiday festivities; Clubhouse dining waitlist available; tickets already on sale. |
| Dec. 6 — 12:45 p.m. | Exotic Animal Races & Family Day | Crowd-favorite camel, ostrich, and zonkey races; family-friendly programming. |
| Dec. 13 — 12:45 p.m. | Louisiana Champions Day | 10 racing events including seven stakes races featuring Louisiana-bred horses on dirt and turf. |
| Dec. 20 — 12:45 p.m. | Road to the Derby Kickoff Day | Eight high-stakes races showcasing rising contenders. |
| Jan. 17 — 12 p.m. | Road to the Derby Day | Fan-favorite winter showcase with six major 3-year-old stakes races. |
| Jan. 31 — 12:45 p.m. | Exotic Animal Races & College Day | Camel, ostrich, and zonkey races plus college-focused fan activities. |
| Feb. 14 — 12 p.m. | Louisiana Derby Preview Day + Breast Cancer Awareness Event | Major Derby prep races plus charitable programming for breast cancer awareness. |
| Feb. 28 — 12:45 p.m. | Weiner Dog Races | Dachshund sprint event with $1,000 in cash and prizes. |
| Mar. 14 — 3 p.m. | Clash of the Colleges Twilight Races | New event featuring twilight racing, college-themed festivities, and live music. |
| Mar. 21 — 12 p.m. | Louisiana Derby Day | Louisiana’s premier racing day featuring the $1 million Louisiana Derby and $2.65M in total purses. |
Racing Tradition Continues
Live racing is open to guests of all ages, though children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult and are not permitted in slots or OTB areas. The 2025-26 season continues the legacy of one of the country’s oldest racetracks, founded in 1872 and now owned by Churchill Downs Incorporated.
