San Diego's unofficial start to summer arrives on Friday, July 17, as the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club initiates its highly anticipated 2026 summer racing season. Running through Monday, Sept. 7, the 87th summer meet blends world-class Thoroughbred racing with beloved traditions, elevated dining experiences, exciting new attractions and unforgettable seaside celebrations. See below for the first two weeks of the summer season:
Opening Day presented by Caesars Sportsbook – (Friday, July 17) SoCal’s biggest party is here! Del Mar's iconic summer celebration returns with the Opening Day Hats Contest, and The Party presented by Pacifico, a high-energy trackside experience featuring live DJs, specialty cocktails and more. New for 2026, the Seabiscuit Society VIP Party debuts in the Grandstand's sixth-floor Skyroom, offering premium hospitality and curated cuisine.
Tacos & Tequila Festival – (Saturday, July 18) As a fan-favorite tradition, Tacos & Tequila Fest features San Diego’s best taco vendors, frozen margaritas, refreshing cervezas and more. This event is 21+.
Taste of the Turf Club – (Every Sunday - Starting July 19) Del Mar’s signature Sunday brunch experience returns with a refreshed menu curated by Chef Bryn McArthur, the Executive Chef of Amaya at Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Guests can enjoy elevated offerings such as Grilled Lamb Lollipops, Blueberry Lemon Cornbread, Jidori Chicken & Waffles, handcrafted cocktails and more, all while taking in panoramic racetrack views from the Turf Club. Dress code applies!
POP-Up Sundays – (Every Sunday - Starting July 19) Plaza de Mexico will showcase a rotating lineup of beloved San Diego restaurants serving local flavors throughout the afternoon.
July 19: Brandt Beef, BBQ Smoked Brisket
July 26: North Italia
Free & Easy Thursdays – (Every Thursday - Starting July 23) A promotion for Del Mar’s Diamond Club members, enjoy complimentary general admission and seating andspecial concession offers including $5 Michelob ULTRA drafts, Brandt Beef hot dogs and refillable sodas at select locations.
Turf Club Fridays – (Every Friday - Starting July 24) Start your weekend in style with Turf Club Fridays, a weekly elevated happy hour experience in one of the racetrack’s most exclusive settings. Attendees can enjoy curated appetizers, handcrafted cocktails and beautiful views of the track. Dress code applies!
Earlier Friday Post Times & Friday Happy Hour – (Every Friday - Starting July 24) This year, Fridays at Del Mar get a new look for 2026 with a 2 p.m. first race time to align with the rest of the racing week. TFriday Happy Hour runs until 4 p.m., offering 25% off all signature cocktails and select beers!
New Family Fun Day – (Sunday, July 26) Del Mar’s Family Fun Day is back and earlier than ever! This family-centric trackside event features free kids' games, face painting, inflatable attractions and activities alongside a day full of exciting racing. Kiddos 17 and under receive free admission!
First post daily (now including Fridays!) is 2 p.m. until Sept. 5, when first post moves to 1:30 p.m. For more information, call 858-755-1141 or visit www.dmtc.com. You can follow Del Mar on Instagram and Twitter at @delmarracing or on Facebook @DelMarRaces.