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The New York Racing Association (NYRA) has announced new policies for the upcoming Belmont Stakes Racing Festival in Saratoga Springs, New York. The event, which runs from Wednesday, June 4 to Sunday, June 8, 2025, promises a thrilling five-day celebration of horse racing and entertainment, with over $11 million in prize money at stake.
Fans attending the festival will not be allowed to bring alcohol into the Saratoga Race Course from Thursday, June 5 through Saturday, June 7. Each fan is permitted to bring one folding chair for personal use in the backyard area, but wagons, pop-up tents, and folding tables are prohibited during these days. Cash transactions will not be accepted for food, beverages, admission, parking, or programs, except at the official Saratoga store. Instead, fans should use credit or debit cards.
The festival will feature a variety of races, including the prestigious 157th running of the Grade 1, $2 million Belmont Stakes on Saturday, June 7, at 7:04 PM ET. Gates will open at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday, with the first post at 12:40 p.m. On Friday, admission begins at 10 a.m., and on Belmont Day, gates open at 9 a.m. with the first race at 10:45 a.m.
For those interested in morning training sessions, fans can watch at the Oklahoma training track from 7-10 a.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday by entering Gate 21 on East Avenue. However, the main Saratoga track will be closed to the public for morning training during the festival.
The festival will also include live music performances, featuring artist G-Eazy, and a fundraiser gala. For more details on permitted and prohibited items, fans can visit the NYRA's official website.