by Emily Gaskin, for Hoosier Park Racing and Casino

Anderson, IN — Hoosier Park Racing & Casino will complement the 2015 harness racing season by hosting the annual Farmtastic event, a farm themed and family friendly day at the races on Saturday, Sept. 5. The event, which has quickly become a fan favorite, is free to the public, and will take place from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Yard, with live racing beginning at its’ regularly scheduled post time of 5:15 p.m.

Sponsored by the White River Heritage Antique Tractor Association, the Farmtastic event will feature an antique tractor exhibit, with more than 25 antique tractors on display. FarmTastic will also include children’s activities, live harness racing, farm food favorites, live entertainment, and a tractor competition.

Back by popular demand, Hoosier Park will also host the second annual “Food Truck Throwdown” in Hoosier Park’s Yard, in conjunction with the Farmtastic activities. Starting at 5 p.m., racing fans will have the opportunity to select from a variety of the best food trucks in the area offering authentic cuisine.

Hoosier Park’s ‘Family Fun’ Saturdays will also continue on Sept. 5 with pedal tractor games, a bounce house, face painting and more. The family friendly atmosphere will feature designated areas and activities to accommodate all guests.

Along with winner’s circle giveaways and entertainment, the Indiana Standardbred Association will have a table located near the winner’s circle to hold drawings for farm and home themed prizes throughout the entire evening.

The 14-race card slated for Saturday will be highlighted by the $21,000 Invitational Pace for older pacing horses and geldings. The Champions for Charity promotion and the $500 Beat The Big Guy handicapping contest drawing will highlight the racing promotions for the evening.

The evening’s festivities will be culminated by a free concert in Hoosier Park’s Terrace Showroom by the Hunter Smith Band. Hunter Smith, who won a Super Bowl ring as the Indianapolis Colts punter in 2007, has retired from football and since launched a music career. The Hunter Smith Band, who plays a variety of genres, will perform at the conclusion of live racing.