Strawberry Hills Races 2012
On June 2, 2012, Virginia will celebrate a time-honored equestrian tradition: The 80th running of the Strawberry Hills Races. The event is highly anticipated, even in the year when the formerly associated State Fair of Virginia closed its door in March. Colonial Downs has adopted the race as its own, ensuring the continuation of the beloved steeplechase races. Strawberry Hills also marks the beginning of Colonial Downs’ thoroughbred racing season.
Spectators at the Strawberry Hills Races traditionally enjoy a day of festive revelry in the form of a railside tailgating party. Visitors should reserve space in advance to enjoy early admission at 10:00 AM – plenty of time to secure your spot with friends, and start preparations for the party of the year. General admission begins at 11, and the first steeplechase race begins at 12:55 PM.
This year’s theme is “Celebrate the 80th Running with the 80’s”. Valley girls, MC Hammer Pants, leg warmers and shoulder pads are, like, totally welcome. Guests are encouraged to deck their tailgates out with strobe lights and blast 80’s music. Channel one of our favorite decades of excess and turn out in your very best punk gear, and party like it is 1980 – single sequined white glove and rubber red jacket optional.
Tickets for this year’s race can be purchased directly from Colonial Downs. Reservations at the Historic Richmond Inns go quickly on major event weekends, so always secure yours as far in advance as possible. Enjoy premium accommodations, luxury properties and gourmet breakfasts daily during your visit. Don’t forget to ask your innkeeper for his or her best pre- and post-race entertainment recommendations as well. Don’t wait – plan a day at the races today!