Galloping into Tradition: Exploring Oaklawn Park Horse Racing

The Racing Season at Oaklawn Park: An Exciting Calendar of Events

The racing season at Oaklawn runs from December to early May, providing months of excitement and high-stakes competition. Throughout the season, Oaklawn also offers a variety of special events, including themed race days, live entertainment, and more, making it a great destination for both racing fans and those looking for a little extra fun.

Oaklawn hosts a series of important stakes races, including the Rebel Stakes, Apple Blossom Handicap, Oaklawn Handicap, and the Arkansas Derby. These races attract top-tier horses from around the country, making each event a spectacle of speed, skill, and strategy. Let’s take a closer look at these specific horse racing events at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs.

Rebel Stakes

The Rebel Stakes is a Grade II Thoroughbred horse race for three-year-old horses, held annually each March at Oaklawn Park. The popular race covers a distance of 1 1/16 miles on dirt, with a staggering winning purse of $1,250,000 as of 2024. 

Rebel Stakes serves as the second leg of Oaklawn's three-year-old stakes series, taking place after the Southwest Stakes and leading up to the Arkansas Derby. Additionally, the Rebel Stakes is part of the Road to the Kentucky Derby and hopeful jockeys will have to meet key qualification points to qualify for the Kentucky Derby.

Apple Blossom Handicap

The Apple Blossom Handicap is a Grade I Thoroughbred horse race for fillies and mares ages four and older. Held annually in April at Oaklawn Park, the race is run under handicap conditions over a distance of one and one-sixteenth miles on dirt. The 2024 edition offered a purse of $1,250,000.

Oaklawn Handicap

The Oaklawn Handicap is an annual American Thoroughbred horse race held each April at Oaklawn Park Race Track. A Grade II event run on dirt, the race has been contested over a distance of 1 1/8 miles (9 furlongs) since 1984 after previously being run at 1 1/16 miles (8.5 furlongs).

Horse Racing in December at Oaklawn Park

As we mentioned earlier, horse racing officially kicks off during the winter season in Hot Springs specifically the first week of December. The season continues until May of the following year. The unofficial ending event comes in the form of the Arkansas Derby held in April. You can also download the Oaklawn Anywhere app to follow the races when you’re not on the track.

• What is the Oaklawn Horse Racing Schedule?

The first post typically starts at 12:30 p.m. with gates opening at 11:00 a.m. on most days. For more accurate times and updates, check their website. Racing will again be conducted primarily on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

• Is there a fee to watch horse racing at Oaklawn Park?

Gate entry is free every race day, so you can soak up the electrifying atmosphere trackside without breaking the bank!

What to Expect When You Visit Oaklawn Park & Casino

When you visit Oaklawn, there are several ways to experience the action:

Live Racing

Watch the races up close from the grandstand or clubhouse and feel the wind on your face as the horses go by! Oaklawn’s facilities offer excellent views of the track, so you can fully immerse yourself in the experience no matter where you’re sitting or standing. 

Betting

Oaklawn offers a wide range of betting options, from traditional pari-mutuel betting to more advanced wagers. Even beginners can join in the fun of making bets on their favorite horses.

Whether you're a novice or an experienced bettor, Oaklawn' Park's friendly atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy the action and wager a few dollars—it’s derby day after all!

The Trackside Dining Experience

For those looking to add a little extra flair and flavor to their visit, Oaklawn offers several dining options, including the popular Silks Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy delicious meals while watching the races.

Casino and Gaming

When you're ready for a change of pace, Oaklawn’s casino offers a variety of gaming options, including slots, table games, and poker. It’s the perfect way to relax and unwind after a thrilling day at the races.

Entertainment

Oaklawn’s entertainment offerings include live music, concerts, and special events throughout the year, ensuring there’s never a dull moment, even when the horses aren’t racing.

How are Horse Races Categorized?

If you’re just getting into the sport and aren’t a seasoned participant, the mention of furlongs, purses, and grades might be confusing. Horse races are categorized based on several factors, including the level of competition, the type of horses eligible to compete, race conditions, and the distance. Here is a quick breakdown of horse racing categories:

• Grade I: These are the highest-level races, attracting the best horses in the world. They feature significant purses, top competition, and international recognition. 
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• Grade II: These races are highly competitive but slightly less prestigious than Grade I events. They still attract top horses, often serving as preparation for major Grade I races.
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• Grade III: These races are still important, though they typically feature a more regional field of horses. They serve as a stepping stone for horses aiming for higher-level races. 
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• Listed Races: These are not officially graded but are still important stakes races, often for up-and-coming horses.

Furlongs

A furlong is a unit of distance used in horse racing, equivalent to one-eighth of a mile, or 220 yards. In most horse races, the length of the race is measured in furlongs, with common race distances ranging from 4 furlongs (a sprint) to 12 furlongs (a long-distance race).

The Do’s & Don’ts of Horse Racing Attire

Do

• Check the dress code ahead of time: Every venue is different so check the website beforehand so you don’t run into any surprises the day of.
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• Wear a floppy hat: While this isn’t a requirement, we highly recommend embracing this derby staple and throwing on a hat or scarf to help with the sun and add a little drama to your outfit.
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• Dress for the weather: Regardless of when you’re attending, use common sense and dress for the weather. It’s always better to be prepared so you can fully enjoy the day.

Don’t

• Wear jeans or heels: Typically, the dress code for a horse race doesn’t allow for jeans or clothes that are too casual. While you might be able to avoid the grass in some areas, opting for a wider heel like a flat or wedge is a better option.
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• Dress too fancy: While Derby Day calls for some glitz and glamor, save your ballgown for another day. Think business professional or Sunday best attire. 
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• Break the bank: Don’t feel pressured to purchase anything too expensive for the day, unless you have other places to wear it.
  

Choose a Premier Cabin Rental in Hot Spring, AR

If you’re from out of town or want to make a weekend out of it, pair your horse race experience with the best cabins in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Knotty & Nice Cabins can accommodate your group comfortably and we have convenient amenities like bubbling hot tubs, spas, and a cozy fireplace in each cabin.

Our cabins are near many attractions like the historic Bathhouse Row, scenic lakes, and lush forests. With the perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and access to the best of Hot Springs, you’ll find Knotty & Nice Cabins has truly thought of everything you need. 

Pack your bags, grab your friends, and come see for yourselves why Hot Springs, Arkansas is your new vacation destination.