Free Admission to Oaklawn Horse Races in Hot Springs Until Season Finale

Arkansas racetrack offers complimentary gate entry through May 2nd conclusion of 2025-2026 live racing calendar.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:08am

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring vibrant brushstrokes of neon colors capturing the dynamic motion and energy of a horse race at Oaklawn racetrack, with the horses and jockeys blurred into a colorful, gestural composition.Oaklawn's free admission offer during the final weeks of its racing season invites the public to experience the thrilling energy of live Thoroughbred racing in Hot Springs.Hot Springs Today

The 2025-2026 live racing season at Oaklawn Hot Springs in Arkansas is entering its final stages, offering fans free gate entry through the conclusion of the season on May 2, 2026. Located within Hot Springs National Park, Oaklawn has operated as a premier Thoroughbred racetrack since 1904 and features 62 stakes races with over $18 million in total purses this season.

Why it matters

Oaklawn serves as a major tourist draw for Hot Springs, Arkansas, providing a popular sporting event alongside the region's thermal waters and outdoor activities in the Ouachita Mountains. The free admission promotion aims to boost attendance and interest during the final weeks of the racing calendar.

The details

General admission to Oaklawn is free every race day, with gates typically opening to the public at 11:00 am. The daily schedule begins with the Oaklawn Today pre-race analysis show at 11:10 am, followed by the first post time at 12:45 pm. Spectators also have the option to reserve individual grandstand seats online, and the track offers Discount Thursdays for fans aged 18 and older.

  • The 2025-2026 live racing season at Oaklawn Hot Springs began in December 2025.
  • The season will conclude on May 2, 2026.

The players

Oaklawn Hot Springs

A premier Thoroughbred racetrack that has operated in Hot Springs, Arkansas since 1904, featuring 62 stakes races and over $18 million in total purses during the 2025-2026 season.

McPeek

A prominent horse trainer who may enter Blackout Time and Taken by the Wind in turf stakes races at Oaklawn during the 2025-2026 season.

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What’s next

The 2026 Arkansas BAGGO State Championship Tournament, which requires a $50 entry fee, will take place at Oaklawn on May 2, 2026 as part of the track's closing activities for the racing season.

The takeaway

Oaklawn's free admission offer during the final stretch of its 2025-2026 live racing season provides an opportunity for both local residents and tourists to experience the excitement of Thoroughbred racing at one of Arkansas' premier sporting venues.