Del Mar Racetrack General:
The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is celebrating 75 years as a world-class racing and entertainment destination this summer. The seaside track’s seven-week meet – filled with fast horses, free concerts and big weekend events – began on Wednesday, July 18, 2012.
Must Do List – Del Mar Weekend (8/24-8/26):
Jimmy Cliff in for 4 O’Clock Friday Concert (8/24): Friday nights at Del Mar are one of the hottest scenes for music lovers all season long, as the Summer Concert Series rolls on with more shows than ever before. Music fans won’t want to miss a performance by reggae veteran Jimmy Cliff, a household name in Jamaica who helped to popularize reggae music world-wide with hits like “You Can Get it if You Really Want.”
The concert is open to all ages and begins following the last race on the Seaside Stage, located at the West end of the Grandstand. Performances are free with paid racetrack admission ($6 for Stretch Run and $10 for Clubhouse.) Admission is $20 for concert-only access following the start of the last race. There is no seating for the concerts – standing room only. The Seaside Stage is a non-smoking venue. Visit www.delmarscene.com for more information.
Donuts at Del Mar (8/25): Sweeten up your morning routine with the second Donuts Day of the season at the Del Mar racetrack. Early birds can arrive to the track in the morning to enjoy dozens of delicious pastries and take a behind-the-scenes look into the world of Thoroughbred racing. Fans will get the opportunity to watch horses on their morning workouts and interact with famous jockeys and trainers in question and answer sessions.
Festivities will be hosted by track announcer Trevor Denman in the Seaside Terrace area from 8 to 10 a.m.
$1 Million TVG Pacific Classic (8/26): Del Mar will welcome top horses from across the country to the track on Sunday for the marquee racing event of the summer: the $1 Million TVG Pacific Classic. This year’s star studded field features true contenders from top to bottom, and the automatic Breeders’ Cup bid that comes with the win promises to be highly sought after. Always a spectacle for Thoroughbred racing aficionados and socialites alike, the Pacific Classic is sure to bring throngs of fans to the track eager to be a part of a spectacular scene reminiscent of Opening Day. Track-goers will even be treated to a FREE Del Mar Fleece Pullover as they walk through the gates!
Daybreak at Del Mar (every Saturday and Sunday morning): Mornings at the track offer race fans an exclusive look into the world of Thoroughbred racing with Daybreak at Del Mar. Attendees are given the rare opportunity to view morning workouts and get racing tips and information from former jockey Jeff Bloom, all while enjoying a buffet breakfast at the Clubhouse Terrace Restaurant.
Family Weekends (every Saturday and Sunday morning): Families can walk over to the Infield and enjoy dozens of activities for the kids, from face painting and bounce houses to magicians and inflatable games.
Enjoy a Del Margarita: Del Mar’s specialty drink served in a souvenir Del Mar cup. Margarita mix, tequila and a splash of Grand Marnier.
Where to Watch:
The Stretch Run: Watch from the rail as Thoroughbreds race to the finish line, for only $6 for general admission! Seats and dining tables are available in the Stretch Run Grill restaurant.
The Clubhouse: Enjoy the races with brilliant views of the Pacific Ocean and the beautiful Del Mar hillside, all for only $10.
The Paddock: One of the most beautiful Paddock areas in Thoroughbred racing, come enjoy the scenery and an social atmosphere as the Thoroughbreds parade around the circle before each race.
The Infield: Views from the Infield offer a completely different way to watch the races; see things from the opposite side and really get a sense of the power and speed of the horses racing when you hear them thunder past, away from the noise of the crowds.
The Turf Club: The Turf Club is an area almost too exclusive to mention; only the most seasoned and swanky track-goers have access. The Turf Club can only be accessed by members and for special events (upon invitation), has the finest amenities and its own world-class chef.
Seaside Stage: After the races are over, fans stick around on select days for the Del Mar Summer Concert Series, where regional and national artists perform as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean. Jimmy Cliff, Ozomatli and Ziggy Marley are the remaining artists set to perform.
Things to Do While in Town:
Places to Eat:
Trackside Dining:
Del Mar offers four trackside restaurants ranging in cost from $60-$125/table (plus admission). Additional concessions are also available. Restaurants include:
- Stretch Run Grill
- Veranda Café
- Clubhouse Terrace Restaurant
- Café del Sol Restaurant
- Turf Club (must be a member or guest of a member)
Off-Track Dining:
- Brunch at the Red Tracton before the races – Established in 1948, this steakhouse has been welcoming racing fans since the days of Bing Crosby.
- Post racetrack drinks and dinner at Brigantine Del Mar – Overlooking both the Pacific Ocean and Del Mar racetrack, the scenic restaurant is a popular post-race hangout.
- Party at L’Auberge – The party runs into the night at the outdoor Bleu Bar and the L’Auberge Lobby Bar.
- Flavor Del Mar – Del Mar’s newest and hottest restaurant is a feast for all senses with both delicious flavors and stunning ocean views.
- Surrounding Bars – Jimmy O’s, The Belly Up, En Fuego and Enoteca Del Fornaio all play host to pre- and post-race parties just a quick cab ride from the track.
Places to Stay:
7100 Aviara Resort Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92011
(760) 448-1234
1540 Camino Del Mar
Del Mar, CA 92014
(858) 259-1515
5300 Grand Del Mar Court
San Diego, CA 92130
(866) 305-1528
