Saddle Up At Del Mar Thoroughbred Club

Horse racing has returned for the 2021 season at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, and you’re invited. Here’s what to know.

There’s nothing quite like opening day at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club.

It’s off to the races at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s opening day extravaganza Friday, July 16 from 1PM to 7PM, a San Diego tradition since Bing Crosby opened the track back in 1937. Don your best dresses and suits teamed with a topper from a marvelous milliner—the Opening Day Hats Contest will measure who’s a head above the rest. Then, join the glitterati at the newly revamped L’Auberge Del Mar (laubergedelmar.com), where its opening day fete will include live music by DJs FishFonics and Gabe Vega, flowing cocktails, chef-driven fare and the option to reserve a private cabana.

Jockeys will descend upon Del Mar for its two biggest events of the season—the Pacific Classic and the Breeders’ Cup.

Then, on July 18, bring your appetite and indulge in the first Taste of the Turf Club event of the season. Running Sundays through Sept. 5, the lauded culinary experience is an upscale adventure for the social set, where decadent cuisine; a reserved Turf Club table; and bottomless mimosas, Aperol spritzes, bloody marys and Chandon sparkling wine await. While Turf Club membership isn’t required, dressing to impress certainly is. (If imbibing intrigues, keep your eyes peeled for details on the anticipated Uncorked: Del Mar Wine Fest. Rumor has it this year’s event will take place Aug. 14.)

Well-heeled fans in high spirits

Finally, on Aug. 21, return to the track for the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Pacific Classic (1 to 7PM), where a $1 million purse and an automatic bid to race in the Breeders’ Cup World Championships Nov. 5 and 6 are up for grabs. The elite sporting event is back in Del Mar for the first time since 2017, and promises to provide two full days of spectacular international horse racing featuring riders and fans from around the world. And they’re off! 858.755.1141, dmtc.com