Experience the thrill of a day at the races at Northlands Park as jockeys gear up for the 84th Canada Derby on August 17. This prestigious Grade III horse racing tournament, the biggest racing event in Western Canada, has been held in Edmonton since 1956, and each year brings top horses and jockeys from across the country to compete for a $300,000 purse! General Admission is FREE, VIP packages are $25-$130. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 780-471-3380.
On Friday nights, check out the FREE “Park After Dark” festivities on the race track, starting at 6 pm. The grounds transform into Edmonton’s largest patio — with plenty of comfortable lounge seating — to host an evening of food, drink specials, a DJ to set the mood with upbeat tunes, plenty of games and slots and, of course, racing.
Early riser? Enjoy free coffee and donuts at the Stopwatch Cafe, west end of the tarmac at Northlands Park, 8 am – 9:30 am every Saturday. Then, stick around as thoroughbred racing gets underway at 1 pm. See the full calendar for details.
TIP: Looking to dress for the occasion? Shop at Headcase Hats for an excellent assortment of colorful fascinators, à la the annual trend at major thoroughbred races like the Kentucky Derby.
