NYRA Announces Belmont Stakes Racing Festival Policies for Saratoga

New York Racing Association officials have announced comprehensive guest policies for the upcoming Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga, scheduled for June 4-8.

Gates will open at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday with first post times set for 12:40 p.m. ET. Friday’s admission begins at 10 a.m. with an 11:40 a.m. first post, while Belmont Day will see gates open at 9 a.m. with racing starting at 10:45 a.m. ET.

The Saratoga main track will remain closed to the public during morning training sessions throughout the festival. However, fans can observe training at the Oklahoma training track from 7-10 a.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday by entering through Gate 21 on East Avenue. No vehicular traffic will be permitted during these sessions.

Public access to the main track for "Breakfast at Saratoga" will resume on July 10, marking the opening day of the summer meet.

Festival attendees should note several important restrictions in place for the event. Alcoholic beverages may not be brought onto the grounds from Thursday through Saturday. While each fan is permitted to bring one folding chair for personal use in the backyard area, pop-up tents, folding tables and wagons are prohibited Thursday through Saturday.

NYRA has implemented a cashless policy for most transactions during the festival. Cash will not be accepted for food and beverage purchases, admission, parking or programs, with the exception of the official Saratoga store.

Small bags and purses are permitted, but professional photography and videography equipment is prohibited.

A comprehensive list of permitted and prohibited items is available on the NYRA website.

The five-day racing festival represents one of the most significant events on the North American racing calendar, featuring the 156th running of the Belmont Stakes — the final jewel of thoroughbred racing’s Triple Crown.