Colonial Downs Gears Up for Virginia Derby This Weekend

The annual Kentucky Derby qualifier race will draw over 8,000 fans to the New Kent County racetrack.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Colonial Downs racetrack in New Kent, Virginia is preparing to host the annual Virginia Derby this weekend, a Kentucky Derby qualifier race that is expected to draw over 8,000 fans. The three-day Virginia Derby meet will feature live racing on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, with the Derby itself taking place on Saturday at noon. In addition to the horse racing, the day will include various entertainment and activities.

Why it matters

The Virginia Derby is a significant event for the state, as it is Virginia's only Kentucky Derby qualifier race. Last year, two horses from the Virginia Derby went on to compete in the Kentucky Derby, highlighting the importance of the race in the broader thoroughbred racing landscape.

The details

The Virginia Derby weekend kicks off the summer racing season at Colonial Downs, which will run from June 25 through September 7 for a total of 48 days of live racing. The racetrack has a new logo and branding for this year. General admission tickets are still available, and Thursday and Friday's race days will have free general admission, with reserved and indoor seats available for purchase. Saturday's Derby day will feature a variety of entertainment, including a flyover from the 41st Flying Training Squadron, a performance of the National Anthem by a former American Idol contestant, and other live music and performances.

  • The Virginia Derby will take place on Saturday, March 15, 2026.
  • The summer racing season at Colonial Downs will run from June 25 through September 7, 2026, for a total of 48 days of live racing.

The players

Colonial Downs

A racetrack located in New Kent County, Virginia that hosts the annual Virginia Derby, a Kentucky Derby qualifier race.

Frank Hopf

The senior director of racing at Colonial Downs racetrack.

American Promise

The winner of the 2025 Virginia Derby, who went on to compete in the Kentucky Derby that year.

Render Judgement

The runner-up in the 2025 Virginia Derby, who also went on to compete in the Kentucky Derby that year.

41st Flying Training Squadron

Also known as 'The Flying Buzzsaws,' this is a synchronized air show that will perform a flyover during the 2026 Virginia Derby.

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What they’re saying

“We could not be more excited to welcome fans from near and far for this one-of-a-kind Virginia sporting event.”

— Frank Hopf, Senior Director of Racing, Colonial Downs (Colonial Downs press release)

What’s next

The 152nd Kentucky Derby is scheduled for May 2, 2026 in Louisville, Kentucky, and will feature horses that competed in the 2026 Virginia Derby.

The takeaway

The Virginia Derby is a significant event for thoroughbred racing in Virginia, serving as the state's only Kentucky Derby qualifier race. The event draws thousands of fans to Colonial Downs and helps showcase the state's vibrant racing culture.