Big Fresno Fair photo

The Big Fresno Fair is set to feature a record 14 days of live horse racing this year, doubling the number of race dates from 2023.

The expanded race schedule, slated to commence in September prior to the annual fair, follows approval by the California Horse Racing Board of plans from the California Authority of Racing Fairs to establish year-round racing in Northern California under the Golden State Racing banner.

The initiative aims to sustain the sport in Northern California following the closure of Golden Gate Fields near Berkeley on June 9.

“This is a new era of horse racing in Northern California and we know this expanded race meet in Fresno will draw big crowds,” said Larry Swartzlander, general manager of the newly formed Golden State Racing. “Fresno has a reputation for its safe track and the incredible energy the crowds bring. The horse owners, trainers and jockeys are excited to have these additional race dates in Fresno and we can expect strong horse numbers and some incredible races.”

The 2024 Big Fresno Fair race schedule includes:

• September Race Dates (pre-Fair):

  • Friday, Sept. 13 – Sunday, Sept. 15
  • Saturday, Sept. 21 & Sunday, Sept. 22
  • Saturday, Sept. 28 & Sunday, Sept. 29
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• October Race Dates (during the Fair):

  • Friday, Oct. 4 – Sunday, Oct. 6
  • Friday, Oct. 11 – Monday, Oct. 14
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“We are thrilled to host 14 days of live horse racing in Fresno this year,” said Christina Estrada, interim CEO of The Big Fresno Fair. “Horse racing has an over 100-year history at our Fair and our community always shows up to support this longstanding tradition. As the only fair between Los Angeles and Sacramento with live horse racing, we bring something unique for our community to do! We have some fun-themed days at the races planned — so whether you’re a longtime horse racing fan or just curious
about what it’s all about  — mark your calendars and come support this expanded race meet. Let’s show the state how strong racing in Fresno is!”

Horse racing tickets will be available first to Big Fair Fan (BFF) Club members during an exclusive online pre-sale from Monday, July 15 at 10 a.m. through Sunday, July 21 at 11:59 p.m. General public ticket sales (online only) will commence on Monday, July 22 at 10 a.m. BFF Club Members will receive their pre-sale password via email on July 11. New members will receive the password upon email sign-up confirmation. For those interested in early access to live horse racing tickets, sign up for free at the BFF Club website.

For more information on the expanded race meet and ticket details, visit fresnofair.com.