Beyond the live thoroughbred racing and state-of-the art betting parlor, Colonial Downs Racetrack provides an exciting range of exclusive amenities designed for both social gatherings and professional meetings. Whether for a small group or large-scale event, the track, located off Interstate 64 between Richmond and Williamsburg, offers a new level of fun with tailored amenities for groups looking for more than just a typical ballroom or private suite.
“It’s definitely a unique site to host anything and everything, whether during or outside of the racing season,” said event coordinator Sheila Sullivan. “From employee appreciation days, car shows and birthdays to large-scale outdoor barbecues, business meetings and weddings, we have the ability to turn an event into a spectacular one-of-a-kind celebration.”
Indoor and outdoor venue options range from intimate luxury suites to a 300-capacity ballroom and a specialized entertainment venue, with most providing an elevated, sweeping view of the entire track. In fact, Colonial Downs’ two state-of-the-art racing surfaces are second to none.
The Secretariat Turf Course is the widest grass racing surface in North America and has played host to champion horses over the last two decades in prestigious races like the New Kent County Virginia Derby. The dirt track is the country’s second largest and offers equine athletes a safe and sprawling oval to compete on.
In addition to the world-class thoroughbred racing, Colonial Downs features simulcast wagering and a variety of food and bar options to entertain guests. Rental options include the 4th floor Suites, which hold up to 30 guests; the Jockey Club Social, a semi-private space with a mix of lounge seating, cocktail tables and dining tables; the flexible 3,591-square-foot 1609 Ballroom; and outdoor spaces that can host tented cocktail receptions and festivals with limitless guest count.
Sullivan said groups can make their events even more personal by displaying their logos, photos or celebratory messages on the tote board, watch a race and take photos from the winner’s circle, have a race named after them and even hear their names being announced from the broadcast booth.
Sullivan said new for this year is racing on Sundays, which will be designated as Family Days. Cost for group rentals and amenities will be significantly less on Sundays, making it more economical for renting space. All rental spaces will offer a brunch menu on Sundays as well. Other activities will include a petting zoo and the “Junior Jockey Club” where kids can design their own silks.
“It’s just across-the-board fun to host an event here, no matter the size or occasion,” Sullivan said. “So if you’re looking to reimagine your experience, we’re here to help make that happen.”
A 45-day summer meet session will feature racing every Thursday through Sunday, June 25 through Sept. 7, concluding with a special Labor Day finale. Live racing beings at 12:30 p.m. each race day.
Visit rosiesgaming.com or contact Sheila Sullivan at 804.557.5684 for more information on Colonial Downs Racetrack, or to learn more about hosting an event.
