Prairie Meadows 2026 Live Horse Racing Season Kicks-Off Derby Weekend

New Features make the Racetrack a Destination in Des Moines

ALTOONA - The 2026 live horse racing season at Prairie Meadows begins this Saturday, May 2nd, aligning with the famed Kentucky Derby Day. With a total of 76 racing days, the season runs through Saturday, September 26th.

New this year, signature drinks and patio amenities will help entertain visitors on race day. This weekend in honor of the derby, highlights include the new signature drink called the “Mile Marker Mule” with Woodford, lime juice and ginger beer. Attendees can also watch the Kentucky Derby live from TVs throughout the track. The full Derby day schedule of events for May 2nd includes:

●     Kentucky Derby Swipe & Win, Noon - 8 p.m.

●     Hat & Bow Tie Contests, 4 - 5:45 p.m., winners announced at 6:30 p.m.

●     Prairie Meadows Live Racing, Post Time 5 p.m.

●     Watch & Wager On The Kentucky Derby, Post Time 5:57 p.m.

●     Free Live Entertainment, 9 p.m. Finish Line Show Lounge, Keith Wells & the Tonky Stompers (Country)

●     Neon Nights Swipe & Win, 9 p.m. – 2 a.m.

Throughout the season, emphasis will be placed on making each weekend racing experience unique with updated food and beverage options, photo opportunities and additional entertainment.

“We are excited to bring live horse racing back to Central Iowa for the 2026 season,” said Brian Ohorilko, Prairie Meadows Chief Executive Officer. “It is an honor for me to step into this new role as CEO and help carry on this important tradition in our community that was started by visionary leaders so long ago. As we have worked to make the racetrack a destination for the horse racing industry, we’re equally excited to bring new updates that make it a destination for the community to not only watch live racing, but enjoy an overall experience that makes them want to keep coming back.”  

Started by local business and community leaders In the early 1980s to help Iowa’s agricultural community and spur economic development, the racetrack has grown into an economic contributor to Central Iowa. Today, it’s estimated the racetrack provides an estimated $200 million annually to the local economy.

For full details about the 2026 live racing season, visit www.prairiemeadows.com/racing.

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