HOT SPRINGS, Ark. - Oaklawn kicks off its live racing season on Friday with a special 12:30 p.m. first post.
Opening Day features the $150,000 Smarty Jones Stakes.
The 57-day season is highlighted by a record $35 million in total purses, 33 stakes races, including four $1 million stakes, new promotions, and more infield days.
The running of the $100,000 Fifth Season Stakes is on Saturday, which has been split into two $100,000 races based on demand along with the running of the $100,000 Pippin Stakes.
Presidents' Day weekend will include the start of the Dawn at Oaklawn program hosted by racing analyst Nancy Holthus on Feb. 15.
The annual Oaklawn free cap giveaway is on Feb. 16. The $750,000 Southwest Stakes, the $500,000 Razorback Handicap and the $200,000 Bayakoa Stakes is on Feb. 17.
The infield will open on March 7, weather permitting, and will continue every Saturday through May 2 with special themes and events each week. The infield will also be open on Fridays April 10-May 1, as well as April 5.
Rebel Stakes Day is March 14 and the day's card will include the $1 million Rebel Stakes, $350,000 Azeri Stakes and $350,000 Essex Handicap.
The Racing Festival of the South will be on April 10 with the $600,000 Fantasy Stakes for 3-year-old fillies with Kentucky Oaks aspirations. The festival will continue past the April 11 $1 million Arkansas Derby and end on April 18 with the $1 million Oaklawn Handicap and $1 million Apple Blossom Handicap.
New promotions this year include the $54,000 frenzy on March 29. Oaklawn's first Easter egg hunt for children on April 5.
The Great Outdoors Giveaway is April 25 where over $50,000 in outdoor equipment and vehicles will be given away to one lucky person. Oaklawn's first Pink Out Day is May 1 to honor breast cancer survivors and increase awareness.
Oaklawn's 2020 live meet runs Jan. 24May 2. There is also racing on Presidents' Day on Feb. 17. Gates open every race day at 11 a.m., except Arkansas Derby Day when they open at 10:30 a.m. and closing day when they open at 9 a.m.
For more information, visit www.oaklawn.com or call 501-623-4411.