East Rutherford, NJ — The Meadowlands Racetrack kicks off July with three nights of racing, beginning Thursday (July 2) and Friday (July 3) with a 6:35 p.m. post time. Saturday, (July 4) has a special early post of 6 p.m.
On July 4, Los Mini Enmascarados (Mini Masked Wrestlers) will perform the unique Mexican cultural art of lucha libre in the Backyard ring. The performers display their flying aerials, scissor kicks and wheelbarrow holds, and fight to become champions. Don’t miss this dynamic cultural spectacle performance by certified lucha libre wrestlers. This family-friendly event starts at 7 p.m., and doors open at 5 p.m.. Tickets start at just $25 and can be purchased here.
Saturday’s live racing features a stakes-laden card, including two Graduate Finals, Meadowlands Pace eliminations (if needed), as well as the Perfect Sting, Dave Brower Memorial, Six Pack and JL Cruze.
Following the races, at approximately 10:35 p.m., there will be a free fireworks show to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
The action on and off the track continues the following weekend.
Saturday, July 11, is the Meadowlands’ signature nighttime event: the Meadowlands Pace! On the track, $2.5 million in stakes is up for grabs, including the top 3-year-old pacers competing for the Meadowlands Pace title. The race card also features (estimated purses):
- $300,000 William R. Haughton Open Pace
- $400,000 Hambletonian Maturity
- $300,000 Stanley Dancer
- $300,000 Del Miller Memorial
- $200,000 Jerry Silverman Memorial
- $175,000 Dorothy Haughton Open Mare Pace
While enjoying world-class harness racing, fans can ride the mechanical shark, dance with DJ ALX, and get a commemorative 50th anniversary Meadowlands Pace T-shirt (while supplies last). For more details, click here.
Additionally, over 20 food trucks will be on site, serving up delicious food. Everything from burgers and empanadas to barbecue, lobster rolls, and lemonade will be available.
Those looking for dining have three other options:
- Café Table for 4 – $100 (includes $100 food credit at the Café) and Lounge Bar Seat or Table – (includes food credit)
- $79.95 Pink Buffet (plus tax & gratuity) – call 201.THE.BIGM for reservations