Explore the 2025 Belmont Stakes FAQ for Important Event Information
Editor's Note (12/3/2024): The following details are from the 2024 season. Stay tuned for 2025 updates!
Are you hoping to partake in the excitement and rich history of the renowned Belmont Stakes Racing Festival? Whether it's your first time or you're a seasoned enthusiast, we've gathered all the most important information so you can have an unforgettable experience. See our Belmont Stakes FAQ below, and learn about the event's history, tickets, venue guidelines, and this year's record setting purse!
What day is the Belmont Stakes?
The 156th running of the Belmont Stakes is on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The Belmont Stakes Racing Festival takes place from Thursday, June 6 to Sunday, June 9, 2024.
What can I bring into the racetrack?
- Alcoholic beverages cannot be brought into the racetrack
- One folding chair per guest, outside food, and soft drinks will be permitted
- Coolers must be no larger than 12" x 18"; limit one per guest
When do the parking gates open?
The parking gates open one hour before admission gates each day.
What parking options are available?
Parking is not included with tickets and must be purchased separately. Parking passes for all four days are available now and highly encouraged.
Furthermore, parking will be sold one a first-come, first-served basis (payable by credit card only). NYRA will offer a bus shuttle from the parking lots to the entrance.
The free CDTA Saratoga Summer Trolley will also be operational each day of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, transporting fans between downtown Saratoga and the racetrack.
For parking passes and the parking map, view the Belmont Stakes parking guide.
Note: Parking is available in downtown Saratoga as well. Paid summer parking in downtown Saratoga does not begin until June 10.
What are the gate times?
The gate open times will vary depending on the day:
Thursday, June 6 | 11:00am
Friday, June 7 | 10:30am
Saturday, June 8 (Belmont Stakes Day) | 9:00am
Sunday, June 9 | 11:00am
Admission entrances will be located at Gates A and B on Union Avenue and Gate C on Nelson Avenue. See the official Grounds Map.
Can I get a picnic table early?
Racing fans who attend morning training on Thursday and Sunday from 7:00am - 10:00am may claim a free picnic table in the backyard during that time frame. Fans will be required to exit the venue at 10:00am before the gates open at 11:00am. You must enter through Gates C or D.
On Friday and Saturday, racing fans may claim a picnic table after the gates open.
What time is the Belmont Stakes? What about the post times for each day?
The 156th running of the Belmont Stakes presented by NYRA Bets is at 6:41pm on Saturday, June 8.
Below are the post times for each day's races:
Thursday, June 6 | 12:50pm first post | 10 races
Friday, June 7 | 12:20pm first post | 12 races
Saturday, June 8 (Belmont Stakes Day) | 10:45am first post | 14 races
Sunday, June 9 | 12:50pm first post | 10 races
Will the 2024 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival be cashless?
Yes, the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival will be cashless for many purchases, including food and drinks, admissions, and parking. Credit and debit cards will be accepted.
Note: Cash can be used for wagering on horse races while at the track.
What do I need to wear for the Belmont Stakes?
Your ticket type and seating location will determine if you need to follow a specific dress code. View our full dress code guide for details.
What race is the Belmont Stakes?
The Belmont Stakes is the oldest Triple Crown event dating back to 1867, and it serves as the thrilling conclusion of thoroughbred racing's pinnacle series.
Traditionally run over 1.5 miles, this year's race at Saratoga Race Course is shortened to 1.25 miles due to the track shape. It remains the ultimate test for 3-year-old thoroughbreds with a rich tradition in legendary finishes.
From Secretariat's record time, to American Pharoah breaking a 37 year dry spell to win the Triple Crown, there are always compelling storylines and photo finishes to be had.
What is the purse for the Belmont Stakes?
The purse for the Belmont Stakes has been raised to $2 million this year! Total purses for the entire racing festival amount to over $10 million.
What channel is the Belmont Stakes on?
All races will be broadcast on the FOX family of networks. See the schedule here: https://www.belmontstakes.com/event-info/tv-schedule
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets went on sale to the general public Thursday, February 15 at 10:00am Eastern.
What city is the Belmont Stakes in?
The 2024 Belmont Stakes will take place in Saratoga Springs, NY, to facilitate the ongoing construction at Belmont Park.
What is the drink of the Belmont Stakes?
Want to imbibe the spirit of the Festival? Try the Belmont Jewel at home or at the track available at any concessions stands that sell hard alcohol. What's in it?
- 1 ½ oz. Straight Bourbon Whiskey
- 2 oz. lemonade
- 1 oz. pomegranate juice
- Lemon twist for garnish
Please enjoy the Belmont Jewel responsibly