Story by John Kelly
As Central Virginia collectively thaws out from the Great Freeze of 2026, it is hard not to notice that spring is just around the corner.
And nothing signals the season’s arrival quite like the green pastures and cherished traditions of the Foxfield Spring Races, which return to Charlottesville on Saturday, April 25.
The event marks the latest chapter in a tradition that began in 1978 and once again brings together world-class steeplechase horses and riders alongside generations of race fans. From spirited tailgating to time-honored customs, Foxfield remains a date long circled on the calendars of horse lovers and social crowds alike.
This year, the experience expands with several new offerings designed to enhance race day. In addition to the steeplechase action at the heart of the event, Foxfield will feature an expanded vendor village with additional food options, upgraded hospitality areas and new experiences aimed at elevating the day for all attendees.
Among the most anticipated additions is the Turf Club, presented by Woodford Reserve and Old Forester bourbons and sponsored by Quattro Tizi. The Turf Club offers a carefree, all-inclusive race-day experience, allowing guests to simply arrive and enjoy.
Turf Club amenities include a catered culinary spread, an exclusive private bar and luxury portable restrooms. The curated tent is located along the homestretch near the finish line and features lodge-style seating and a private television livestream of the races, ensuring guests do not miss any of the action. Race admission and adjacent parking are included. The Turf Club is open to guests 21 and older, with steeplechase attire encouraged—think dresses, blazers, hats and spring colors.
Another new attraction is the Fox Den Wine Tent, offering guests a chance to sample the best of Central Virginia’s wine scene. Participating vineyards include Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards, Pollak Vineyards and Mount Fair Vineyard, with tastings and bottle sales available throughout the day.
Foxfield’s steeplechase course itself is steeped in equestrian history. Formerly an airport and riding school, the track was built in 1977 by Mariann de Tejada. For many years, the races were directed by Benjamin Dick and later by his brother, Thomas Dick. In 2020, Dr. Reynolds Cowles worked alongside Dick to establish Foxfield Racing LLC, a subsidiary of the nonprofit Garth Road Preservation LLC.
Preservation remains central to Foxfield’s mission. In 2019, an easement was placed on the 178-acre property to protect the land and ensure the long-term future of the races and other community events hosted on-site.
The Foxfield Spring and Fall Races also carry a strong philanthropic focus, with longstanding support for Camp Holiday Trails—a year-round camp for children and teens with medical needs and their siblings—and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville.
“We are thrilled to welcome the community back for another unforgettable year,” Marian Fife, executive director of Foxfield Racing LLC, said in a statement. “The Foxfield Spring Races are a cornerstone of Charlottesville’s spring season, and we look forward to celebrating this tradition with returning fans and first-time guests alike.”
Last year’s event drew more than 13,000 attendees and raised more than $50,000 for Camp Holiday Trails.
Tickets for the 2026 Foxfield Spring Races are on sale now. Organizers encourage early purchases to secure premier tailgate parking options. Ticket packages include general admission, Turf Club hospitality access, carpool packages, reserved rail seating, second-row options and infield tailgate parking. Full details are available at foxfieldraces.org.
John Kelly is the managing editor of The Virginia Sportsman. He is a writer and public relations professional based in Charlottesville, Virginia, whose work has appeared in the UVA Arts Magazine, Albemarle Magazine and USA Today, among other publications. John also works regularly throughout Central Virginia as a singer-songwriter and recently released an album of original songs titled “In Between.”
