EDMONTON, AB – Opening weekend for Western Canada’s top thoroughbreds starts tomorrow at Northlands Park Racetrack & Casino. Guests can enjoy racing at Alberta’s largest thoroughbred track until October 24.
“With live racing resuming at Northlands Park and the opening of our sister track, Century Downs in Balzac, this is an exciting time for horse racing in Alberta,” said Tim Reid, President & CEO of Northlands. “We’re thrilled to welcome back not just the horses and jockeys but also our valued industry partners and guests.”
Northlands Park welcomes jockeys from across Canada and from around the world. Jockeys travel from countries such the United States, Barbados, Mexico, Trinidad and Jamaica to compete in Edmonton. After a winter of training in southern states such as Arizona, California and Florida, more than 1,000 horses will call Northlands Park home for the next six months.
Northlands Park is also home to the Canadian Derby, the social event of the season. The 86th running of the Canadian Derby will take place on August 15, 2015. Tickets to the Canadian Derby are on-sale Friday, May 1 and include the Infield Patio Party, VIP Infield Tent Experience, Racing Executive Box Seat Experience and Grandstand Experience. Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster locations, online or by calling 1-855-985-5000.
Northlands Park Racetrack & Casino has been the destination for the best horse racing in Edmonton since 1882. Open 363 days at year, the venue features a casino boasting more than 550 slot and gaming machines. While at Northlands Park, enjoy a dining experience at Colours Restaurant, the largest tiered dining room in Western Canada.
For more information about Northlands Park Racetrack & Casino, visit the website.
2015 Thoroughbred Season Summer Special Events
Opening Weekend – May 1 & 2
This year’s Thoroughbred season begins in style with special Derby-themed activities sure to inspire anticipation for the great racing we will be showcasing in throughout the summer. On Saturday, guests will be able to watch and wager on the 141st Kentucky Derby via our simulcast of this world-class event—the first stop in North America’s historic Triple Crown.
This two-day event will also feature live music out on our front steps, a live rendition of “O Canada”, as well as a photo booth to help guests commemorate the event and the charming elegance of a traditional high tea. Everyone is encouraged to dress to impress both days and to take part in the Hat Contest that will be held on the Saturday. Barn Tours will also be available to those who wish enjoy a behind the scenes experiences developed to give them a richer appreciation of the sport.
Spirit of Asia Day – May 30
We will honour the rich tradition of the world’s largest continent with our Spirit of Asia Day. With the participation of the Confucius Institute our focus is largely on China, as we celebrate its thousands of years of history with a Chinese Art Show, bookmarks featuring authentic hand-written Chinese calligraphy and live music. Guests will also have the opportunity to play our Fortune Stick game for the chance to win a trip to Las Vegas, featuring the chance to dine at Nobu Tower, the largest jewel in the world famous Japanese restaurant empire.
Aboriginal Celebration Day – June 20
This very special race day will be dedicated to celebrating Canada’s Aboriginal Peoples. The afternoon will feature a host of special activities that honour their different cultures and the connection many of them have to horses.
Family Day – June 27
Every season we like to host a day where kids can be kids and the entire family can have an amazing day at the races. This Family Day will feature the fun and hilarious excitement of a classic wiener dog race, as well as pictures with Freddie Furlong, a petting zoo, face painters, balloon artists, arts & crafts and other activities children will love. There will also be a special Horse Art contest, where one child’s drawing will win a $2000 Walt Disney travel voucher for their entire family.
Retro Day – July 11
On July 11 we’re going to take you back to when the cars were cool, the music sounded like music and everything felt new and exciting! Sponsored by Cougar Paint and Collision our Retro Day party is going to impress everyone with a car show out on our tarmac, golden oldies playing all day long, 630 Ched broadcasting onsite and the chance to play games and win entries to our draw for tickets to the Barrett Jackson auction in Las Vegas.