Summer in New Kent County is horse season. The pastures are green, the show circuit is in full swing, and Colonial Downs — Virginia's premier racetrack — opens its doors for the biggest summer meet in its history. Whether you're a lifelong equestrian, a curious newcomer, or a military family looking for ways to get plugged into the local community, there's no shortage of horse-related events to attend.
New Kent sits in the heart of Virginia's horse country, and that means world-class racing, competitive horse shows, and youth equestrian programs are all within easy reach. Here's a guide to the best equestrian events happening near New Kent this summer.
Where Can I Watch Live Horse Racing Near New Kent?
Colonial Downs in New Kent is the centerpiece of Virginia's thoroughbred racing scene. The 2026 summer meet — running June 25 through September 7 — features 48 total race days, the most in the track's history. Live racing takes place Thursday through Sunday on one of the largest turf courses in North America, with a standard post time of 12:30 PM. General admission is free on most race days, making it one of the most accessible and affordable sporting experiences in the state.
Colonial Downs Summer Racing Season
June 25 – September 7, 2026Live thoroughbred racing returns to Colonial Downs with 48 total race days — the most in the track's history. Racing runs Thursday through Sunday on one of the largest turf courses in North America, with a standard post time of 12:30 PM. General admission is free on most race days, making it one of the most accessible sporting experiences in Virginia.
- 35 stakes races throughout the season, including the Grade 1 Arlington Million
- Virginia Derby and Virginia Oaks — headliners of the Festival of Racing on August 1
- Steeplechase racing returns for specialty race days
- Old Dominion Derby closes the season on Labor Day, September 7
Festival of Racing
August 1, 2026The signature event of the Colonial Downs summer meet, the Festival of Racing brings together the Grade 1 Arlington Million, the Virginia Derby, and the Virginia Oaks on a single card. It's the biggest day of horse racing in Virginia all year — and it happens right here in New Kent County.
Wiener Dog Races
August 15, 2026A fan-favorite novelty event at Colonial Downs where dachshunds take to the turf between live horse races. It's family-friendly, hilarious, and one of those events that makes you love living in a community that doesn't take itself too seriously.
What Horse Shows Are Happening This Summer?
Beyond the racetrack, Virginia's competitive horse show circuit offers everything from relaxed local schooling shows to USEF-rated hunter/jumper competitions. New Kent-area farms regularly host shows, and the regional circuit gives spectators and participants plenty of options all season long.
HITS Commonwealth Park — Culpeper Hunter/Jumper Series
April – September 2026HITS (Horse Shows in the Sun) runs one of the East Coast's premier hunter/jumper competition series at Commonwealth Park in Culpeper. The shows are USEF-rated and draw competitors from across the region. Spectators are welcome, and the atmosphere is a great introduction to the competitive equestrian world.
VHSA Associate Horse Shows
Throughout summer 2026The Virginia Horse Shows Association (VHSA) sanctions hundreds of associate horse shows each year at venues across the state. These shows range from local schooling shows to rated competitions in hunter, jumper, equitation, and dressage. Many are free or low-cost for spectators.
Deep Run Horse Show
Summer 2026A long-running tradition in the Richmond equestrian community, the Deep Run Horse Show hosts hunter and equitation classes at the Deep Run Hunt Club grounds. It's a more intimate, community-oriented show experience — perfect for families who want to watch equestrian competition up close.
How Can Kids Get Involved in Equestrian Activities?
One of the best things about New Kent's equestrian community is how welcoming it is to young riders. From 4-H horse programs to summer camps at local farms, there are plenty of ways for kids — even those with zero horse experience — to get started. For military families new to the area, these programs are an excellent way to help kids build friendships and feel connected to the community right away.
4-H District Qualifying Shows
Spring – Summer 2026Virginia's 4-H Horse Council organizes district qualifying shows across the state where young riders compete in horsemanship, showmanship, and performance classes. Top qualifiers advance to the Virginia State 4-H Championship Horse Show. These events are open to spectators and are a wonderful way to see the next generation of Virginia horsemen and horsewomen.
Summer Equestrian Camps
Summer 2026Several New Kent-area farms — including Fox Pointe Farm and Pine Crest Farm — offer week-long summer camps where kids learn horsemanship, grooming, tacking, and riding in a structured, safe environment. It's one of the best ways for military families new to the area to help their kids connect with the local equestrian community.
What Should First-Time Spectators Know?
If you've never attended a horse race or a horse show, New Kent is the perfect place to start. Colonial Downs is casual, welcoming, and free on most race days — no need to dress up or know the sport. Local horse shows are similarly approachable. Here are a few tips to make your first outing easy and enjoyable.
Arrive early for good seats
At Colonial Downs, the turf course views are best from the grandstand. Arriving 20–30 minutes before the first race gives you time to settle in, grab food, and study the program.
Dress comfortably
Summer in Virginia is warm and sunny. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes. For horse shows, closed-toe shoes are recommended if you want to walk near the warm-up rings or barn areas.
Bring the kids
Colonial Downs is family-friendly, and the Wiener Dog Races in August are a guaranteed hit with children. Local horse shows are also great for kids — watching horses up close often sparks a lifelong interest.
Don't be intimidated
Equestrian culture can seem exclusive from the outside, but Virginia's horse community — and New Kent's especially — is genuinely welcoming. People love sharing their passion. Ask questions and enjoy it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know anything about horses to enjoy a day at Colonial Downs?
Not a thing. Colonial Downs is designed for everyone — casual visitors and lifelong racing fans alike. General admission is free on most race days, there are food and beverage options on-site, and the atmosphere is festive and welcoming. Just show up, grab a seat, and enjoy the show.
How much does it cost to attend a local horse show as a spectator?
Most VHSA associate horse shows and local schooling shows are free to attend as a spectator, or charge a nominal parking fee. Larger rated shows like the HITS Culpeper series may charge a small admission fee. It's always worth checking the show's website or calling ahead for details.
Can kids get involved in equestrian activities even if we don't own a horse?
Absolutely. Local farms like Fox Pointe and Pine Crest offer riding lessons, horse leasing programs, and summer camps specifically designed for kids and beginners. 4-H also offers horse programs for youth riders. You don't need to own a horse to get started.
What should I wear to a horse show or racing event?
For Colonial Downs, casual attire is fine — think summer casual with comfortable shoes. For horse shows, spectators generally wear neat casual clothing. If you plan to walk near the warm-up rings or barn areas, closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Ready to Explore New Kent's Horse Country?
Whether you're thinking about moving to New Kent County or you're already here and want to dive deeper into the equestrian community, Shannon Russell can help. She knows the local farms, the events, and the people who make this area special.
Call Shannon Russell at 804-803-1080 for more information or local guidance.
