Horses Aren’t Only Draw – Head to Del Mar Track for Events, from Beer Fest to Family Fun Day

The return of racing to Del Mar isn’t just about wagers and speed. It’s also about special events.

After Opening Day Saturday, which is sold out, there’s a series of weekly theme days and special fests to go along with the races at the Del Mar track.

Here’s a selection:

• Del Mar Beer Festival – from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday with more than 50 local and regional brews, ciders and seltzers for sample while trackside for the races. Guests may pair their beer with a variety of gourmet food available, dance to live DJs and more! Tickets, 21 and up only, start at $38.

• Friday Happy Hour – beginning July 26, enjoy Friday Happy Hour and receive half off all Del Mar’s signature drinks until two hours after the first post.
• Turf Club Fridays – every Friday starting July 26, kick off the weekend at the exclusive Turf Club , ordinarily members-only. Tickets include one Turf Club admission, two drink tickets and the appetizer buffet. Tickets are $125 per person, with a dress code in effect.

• Daybreak at Del Mar – from 7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays, early risers can enjoy breakfast. Diners will be treated to complimentary coffee and see morning workouts from open-air table seating. Racing broadcaster Michelle Yu will offer insider insights.
• Uncorked Del Mar Wine Fest – Aug. 3, enjoy samples of more than 150 wines from around the world and gourmet food from local vendors. Admission, $70.
• Tacos & Tequila – Aug. 10, featuring samples of tequila, margaritas and cervezas paired with tacos from San Diego’s top eateries. Admission, $35.
• Taste of New Orleans – Aug. 24, the South meets the West in a celebration of New Orleans culture with Big Easy-inspired food, music and more. Admission, $35.
• Family Fun Day – Sept 1, families can enjoy free trackside attractions like face painting, climbing walls, kid-friendly games and more.
• College Day – Sept. 7, present a valid student ID for free track admission and exclusive access to grandstand seating.

For the full list, see Del Mar’s calendar, which includes special events and an outline of daily races.