Belmont Stakes Horse Racing Every year in June

Held every June, the Belmont Stakes thoroughbred race is the third leg of the illustrious US Triple Crown series, which begins with the Kentucky Derby in April, followed by the Preakness Stakes in May.

In order to win the US Triple Crown, a single horse must win all three races the same year, something only 11 horses have ever achieved since the inaugural race in 1867.

Open to three-year-old colts and geldings, the Belmont Stakes course is 1.5 miles long, with competitors vying for a $1 million prize purse (of which $600,000 goes to the first place finisher).

Taking place at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York, the Belmont Stakes has drawn spectators in excess of 85,000 people in recent years – as well as a TV audience of more than 20 million viewers – ranking it among the top four sporting events in the country based on attendance.

Belmont Stakes general (“grandstand”) admission is $10 and clubhouse admission is $20. VIP viewing booths are also available.

Elegant attire is a tradition at Belmont Park, and while not everyone must don a suit or elegant gown to attend, the Belmont Park dress code does not allow shorts, t-shirts, jeans, or abbreviated (as in “too revealing”) attire.

There are several food stands at Belmont Park, as well as a café and multiple restaurants. If you wish to enjoy a sit-down meal during the Belmont Stakes, however, reservations are recommended.