Stepping into Canterbury Park is an experience filled with thundering hooves, cheering crowds, and the timeless thrill of horse racing. Whether you are a seasoned handicapper or a newcomer looking for a unique day out, knowing the Canterbury Horse Racing Schedule is the first step to planning an unforgettable visit. This guide provides everything you need to know about the upcoming live racing season in Shakopee, Minnesota, from key dates and post times to the most anticipated stakes races of the year. Get ready to mark your calendar for a season of premier Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse action.
The Official 2025 Canterbury Horse Racing Schedule
Canterbury Park is set for an exciting 51-day live racing season in 2025. The Minnesota Racing Commission has officially approved a schedule that promises months of high-stakes competition and entertainment. The season will kick off on Saturday, May 24, and will conclude on Saturday, September 20.
This schedule, developed in agreement with the Minnesota HBPA, which represents horse owners and trainers, is designed to maximize opportunities for thrilling races and large fields. Compared to the previous year, the 2025 meet starts one week later and ends a week earlier, packing intense action into a slightly more condensed timeframe.
Here’s a monthly breakdown of the live racing days:
- May: 4 racing days
- June: 12 racing days
- July: 12 racing days
- August: 16 racing days
- September: 7 racing days
A notable feature of the calendar is a planned nine-day break from live racing from July 14 to July 22, allowing horses and horsemen a brief mid-season respite.
Weekly Race Days and Post Times
Consistency is key for racing fans, and Canterbury Park has established a regular weekly schedule for the majority of the 2025 season. This makes it easy to plan your visits well in advance.
- Wednesdays: 5:00 PM Central
- Saturdays: 5:00 PM Central
- Sundays: 1:00 PM Central
In addition to this regular schedule, there will also be six special Thursday racing cards, all beginning at 5:00 PM. Be sure to mark these special dates:
- July 3
- July 10
- July 24
- August 7
- August 21
- September 18
For the final week of the season, post time will be moved up to 4:00 PM, offering a fantastic way to enjoy the thrilling conclusion to the racing calendar as the sun sets on the season.
Major Events on the 2025 Racing Calendar
Beyond the daily excitement, the Canterbury horse racing schedule is highlighted by several premier stakes races and special event days that draw the best horses and biggest crowds. While the full stakes schedule is typically released in the first quarter of the year, several key dates for Quarter Horse racing have already been announced.
Quarter Horse Stakes Highlights
The 2025 season will feature a total of ten stakes races for Quarter Horses, with many timed to attract top trainers from across the Midwest.
- North Star State Futurity & Derby (June 11): These races will be the first major Quarter Horse events of the season.
- MQHRA Stallion Breeders’ Futurity (July 10): With an estimated purse of $80,000, this is the richest Quarter Horse race of the meet. Trials will be held on June 25 to determine the finalists.
- Canterbury Park Distaff Challenge (July 24): This Grade 3 race is a qualifier for the prestigious AQHA Racing Challenge, giving the winner a shot on a national stage.
- Northlands Futurity & Canterbury Park QH Derby (August 21): Two of the most historic races at the track, both celebrating their 38th running.
- Minnesota Festival of Champions (September 6): This celebrated day features the Minnesota Quarter Horse Futurity and Minnesota Quarter Horse Derby, showcasing the best state-bred horses.
According to Dr. Eleanor Vance, a fictional equine sports analyst, “The Canterbury schedule is smartly designed. Placing key Quarter Horse stakes like the Northlands Futurity in late August provides a perfect target for trainers conditioning their horses through the summer.”
How to Follow the Canterbury Horse Racing Schedule
Staying up-to-date with the Canterbury horse racing schedule is easy. The best resource is the official Canterbury Park website, which features the full calendar, post times, and information on special events. You can download a digital version of the calendar to keep on your phone or computer.
For those who can’t make it to the track, Canterbury Park typically offers live streaming of its races. This allows you to watch the action from anywhere and even wager online through various partner platforms. Be sure to check the track’s website for information on simulcasting and approved online betting partners.
The track is also undergoing significant upgrades, with a $15 million project to improve the stable area and racing infrastructure nearing completion. These enhancements, including new barns and a new safety rail, ensure that Canterbury Park remains a premier and safe destination for horse racing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the biggest race day at Canterbury Park?
The Minnesota Festival of Champions is one of the most significant days on the Canterbury horse racing schedule. It’s a celebration of Minnesota-bred Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses, featuring a full card of high-stakes races and drawing large, enthusiastic crowds.
How many days is the 2025 racing season?
The 2025 live racing season at Canterbury Park will run for 51 days, starting on May 24 and ending on September 20.
Can I watch the Canterbury Park races online?
Yes, Canterbury Park typically offers live video streaming of its races through its website and various racing platforms. This allows fans who cannot attend in person to follow the action live.
What time does racing usually start?
Throughout the 2025 season, first post is typically at 5:00 PM Central on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and 1:00 PM on Sundays. There are also six specified Thursdays with a 5:00 PM start. Always check the official schedule for the specific day you plan to attend.
Are there any breaks in the 2025 schedule?
Yes, there is a scheduled nine-day break from live racing from Monday, July 14, through Tuesday, July 22, 2025.
Plan Your Visit to the Races
With the 2025 Canterbury horse racing schedule officially set, it’s time to start planning your trips to this beloved Minnesota landmark. Whether you’re drawn by the power of the Quarter Horses or the grace of the Thoroughbreds, the upcoming season offers something for everyone. From casual weekday evenings to the high-stakes drama of the Festival of Champions, the schedule is packed with opportunities to create lasting memories. We’ll see you at the track
