Belmont Stakes Traditions and Key Events to Watch at Saratoga Racetrack

On a warm afternoon, the sun shines brightly over Saratoga Race Course, where onlookers buzz with excitement as horses emerge onto the dirt track for the 157th running of the Belmont Stakes on June 7, 2025. This prestigious event, affectionately known as the “Test of the Champion,” is the crowning jewel in the Triple Crown series, featuring a grueling 1 1/2-mile contest that has become synonymous with American horse racing since its inception in 1867. Older than both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, the Belmont Stakes is steeped in a rich heritage filled with tradition, from its iconic trophy to its floral blanket, all intricately woven into the fabric of its illustrious history. But what makes it so unique?

The Belmont Stakes originated at Jerome Park Racetrack in The Bronx, New York, in tribute to Leonard Jerome, a stock speculator and grandfather of Winston Churchill, as well as a founder of The Jockey Club. Named after August Belmont, a German immigrant and former Jockey Club president, the race has moved throughout the years—most notably relocating to Belmont Park, its famed home. In 2025, however, it takes a temporary residence at Saratoga Race Course, marking a significant moment in its ongoing legacy. But amidst all these changes, the traditions remain steadfast, connecting each Belmont Stakes to its predecessors.

Belmont Stakes Traditions

One of the most cherished traditions at the Belmont Stakes is the post-parade song. From 1960 until 1996, it was “Sidewalks of New York,” setting a nostalgic tone for the event. Fans then transitioned to Frank Sinatra’s “Theme from New York, New York” from 1997 to 2009, before briefly embracing Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind” in 2010. However, since 2011, the classic Sinatra tune has returned to dominate, mirroring the state songs played during the other Triple Crown events—“My Old Kentucky Home” at the Kentucky Derby and “Maryland, My Maryland” at the Preakness Stakes. This musical lineage evokes a sense of shared pride and community among attendees.

Another highlight is the August Belmont Memorial Cup, a stunning trophy designed by Tiffany & Co. Crafted from 350 ounces of sterling silver in 1926, it showcases a representation of Fenian, the 1869 winner, atop pedestals adorned with statues of Herod, Eclipse, and Matchem—symbolizing the foundation sires of thoroughbreds. This trophy, a masterpiece of craftsmanship, serves as a perpetual reminder of the race’s historic significance. The winning owner retains it for one year, while the owner, trainer, and jockey each receive a silver replica as a lasting memento of their triumph.

Credits: Instagram/Belmont Stakes

No Belmont Stakes would be complete without its signature white carnations—a symbol of love and good fortune for the winning horse. It takes approximately 700 blooms to craft the 40-pound blanket draped over the victorious horse. NYRA florist Tony Green dedicates five hours on race day to affix each carnation to seven yards of lush green velvet, ensuring meticulous folding and sewing for optimal support. He also creates a complementary blanket for the Secretariat statue at Belmont Park, paying homage to one of racing’s most legendary figures. These vibrant traditions amplify the spectacle surrounding the Belmont Stakes.

The ‘Test of the Champion’ and Events at Saratoga Race Course

Get ready for an electrifying week at Saratoga Race Course, as the 157th Belmont Stakes headlines the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival from June 4 to June 8, 2025. This iconic race, scheduled for Saturday, June 7, is not only a showcase of talent, stamina, and heart but also a critical fixture in the landscape of thoroughbred racing. Interestingly, the Belmont Stakes has had its share of quirky moments, including once being held in November and sharing the same date and track with the Preakness Stakes. Such historical twists add layers to the lore surrounding this revered event!

The five-day festival, overseen by the New York Racing Association, promises a dazzling array of over 25 stakes races featuring some of the richest purses since the festival’s inception in 2014. But the excitement extends beyond the races themselves. On Thursday, June 5, attendees can look forward to the inaugural Sports Illustrated Revel at the Races, a star-studded celebration featuring musical performance by G-Eazy. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with tickets starting at $100 and VIP tables available for those seeking a dash of extravagance. This pre-party sets the stage for an unforgettable week filled with music, joy, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Saratoga Race Course, known as America’s oldest racetrack, has been a thrilling summer destination since mid-July to Labor Day. Recognized by Sports Illustrated as one of the Top 10 sporting venues in the U.S., its charm is undeniable. Imagine sitting in the vintage grandstands, the crowd roaring as sleek thoroughbreds thunder down the stretch. The expansive grounds are steeped in history, providing not just a view of the races but also a connection to the sport’s past, filled with electrifying moments that echo through time. Whether you are a racing aficionado or simply seeking exhilarating experiences, the magic of Saratoga beckons. Do not miss this opportunity to witness a sporting tradition that remains as timeless as it is thrilling!