I have been here many times and I was really looking forward to going back this year but was disappointed to find out that it was canceled due to COVID-19 concerns but I totally understand and respect their decision. This race has embedded many great memories in my mind and heart and is so much fun in all regards. You don't need to dress up but it is fun to get a little snazzy and mingle with some of the elites from NoVa, Potomac, Bethesda and Poolesville. I can't say enough about this event or the people you encounter during this race. It's in a class all of its own. It's fun and exciting. I highly recommend you go to it next year if you have never been. *Btw - Take a blanket, some snacks and some wine to maximize your experience. Maybe I'll see you there :D read more

My boyfriend won tickets to the Potomac Hunt Races at a silent auction a few months back so we got dolled up and headed over to Poolesville. The race itself is at a beautiful open field. I loved the scenic drive in (if you're coming from DC, it's via the George Washington Memorial Parkway). I was concerned that it might be a little muddy with the incessant rain over the past week, but the plush grass absorbed most of it by the time we got there. The program said that the races start at 12 pm, but the races actually started at 1 pm. In addition to the outer course where the race actually occurs, there is a small inner course where you can admire the horses shortly before they race. Finally, don't miss the miniature horses at the end (Hello, Lil' Sebastian)! Few (mandatory) tips: - Bring a picnic basket and drinks! The only food vendors at the races were BBQ, Ben & Jerry's, and a lemonade stand. - Bring lawn chairs to lounge around in. - Bring a jacket (or a tent)! The open field means that nothing will block the wind if it's a windy day, and there aren't any covered areas nearby. We showed up with none of these things because the website seemed to only "recommend" tailgating, and we assumed that we could purchase from a variety of food and drinks vendors. But this five-star review is dedicated to David, who was the owner of the first tent we approached (confusedly thinking that he was selling drinks). David graciously welcomed us to join his party and treated us like old friends. We spent a fantastic afternoon there, watching the races, mingling with wonderful company, and partaking in their great food and drinks! read more

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This once a year event is a can't-miss party for my family. It's situated on a beautiful piece of property near Poolesville. I believe they were celebrating their 62nd running this year but their history dates back even further. Admission is $30 per car load. For the most fun, get invited to one of the many tailgates along the rail. Even if you don't, there's fun for the whole family. My oldest loves the beautiful horses, my wife loves watching the races and relaxing under a tent with a beverage, and the little ones like the pony rides and kid's area. Great place to watch people. You'll see folks dressed like they're at Churchill Downs and folks in shorts and flip flops. This is a really fun day and you can support a good cause, too. This year's event supported T.A.P.S. Put it on your calendar for next year, it's a great time. read more

Potomac Hunt Races - Pony Ride's in the kids area. - Horse Racing Near Me - Poolesville, Maryland

This is my favorite event of the year. Live horse racing, tailgating, shopping, eating - what more could you want?! It's a very friendly event and more laid back than Gold Cup. And for $40 per carload, it's tough to find a better deal for your money. You can also get a rail side space for $250, but that has to be ordered in advance. We load up as many people as we can in the car, and pack a tailgate. And viola! It's a mobile party. The Kid Zone is an added bonus for families. They've had moon bounces, pony rides, petting zoos, climbing walls. It varies each year. I do suggest you dress appropriately for being in a field all day - think flats or rubber boots. Additionally, unless you're attending a tailgate, it's a good idea to pack food and beverage and maybe folding chairs and blankets to sit on. read more

I have had the great joy of attending the Potomac Hunt Races for the last few years, and I must say, it is one event that I look forward to more and more each year! There are 5 or 6 separate horse races, spread over the course of the afternoon, and equine demonstrations and activites in between the races. Mounted police horses, horse soccer, a military caisson horse, a kid zone with a bounce house and pony rides... in addition to many great food and clothing vendors. It makes for a very full day, and it's impossible for you or the kiddos to be bored. The best part, though, is the tailgate experience: do yourself a favor and purchase a tailgate spot. Invite your friends to come along (they can buy a cheap general admission ticket and just walk over to your tailgate), pack up the coolers and picnic baskets, and kick back and enjoy a beautiful day of horses and friends! It all takes place on the grounds of a beautiful historic estate off of Old River Road. It's a great way to spend time with family, friends, or clients. Get out your bowties and big fancy hats, fill up your coolers, and get yourself to the Potomac Hunt Races! You are guaranteed to have a great time! www.potomachuntraces.com read more

Fun to watch the horses, small-but-good vendor area. Food for sale is limited (that's why only 4 stars), because most folks cater extravagantly or tailgate. However, excellent people-watching and a good time. Just bring your own food & beverages. Adult beverages welcome. read more

This is an annual event that draws families, couples, groups of friends of all ages in a park like setting with flat and jumping races. The atmosphere is super friendly but not rowdy so children and babies are as welcome as adults. There is. Kids Zone for them and to be entertained. Parking is ample and well-organized. So fill your vehicle, pack a picnic basket and a cooler if you're a first timer, but be sure to make friends with the tailgaters so maybe next year you will get an invite. read more

Our family, which includes little ones, have been to the Potomac Hunt Races for several years and have always had a fantastic time. There's so much going on between the races, KidZone (face painting, moon bounce, etc.), tractor ride, booths, and demonstrations to keep the whole family entertained for hours. read more

We've been going to the Potomac Hunt Races for years! Our kids now bring their kids. A wonderful day out for young and old. Horses, racing, picnics, tailgates, food vendor, moon bounce, and more. read more

A guaranteed good outdoor time. It has everything: outdoors, fresh air, atmosphere, ambiance, equine therapy at speed, and all for a philanthropic cause! Come see what real horse racing is about, up close and personal:) read more

Best day outing imaginable. A DC metro area family tradition for generations. There is simply no better way to spend a springtime Sunday afternoon read more

We've gotten together a big group for a rail-side tailgate for the last 5 years and have thoroughly enjoyed ourselves each time. I'd be there this year but am now living in London and will have to content myself with Ascot. A poor comparison I'm sure! Our friends and family will still be in Poolesville carrying on the tradition and simply carrying-on! read more