The 2025 Virginia Derby, set for Saturday, March 15, will serve as a qualifying race for the 151st Kentucky Derby, offering the winner a spot at Churchill Downs on May 3. The event, a highlight of Colonial Downs’ March meet, will feature at least 10 races, with the Derby itself scheduled for the afternoon.

The Derby is part of a three-day racing stretch beginning Thursday, March 13, continuing through Saturday, March 15, which is expected to attract top-tier competition.

For fans seeking to attend, general admission tickets are available for $5. Additional options include trackside seating, dining packages and exclusive experiences at the Colonial Downs Jockey Club.

“We’re excited to make this Virginia Derby a memorable event for race fans across the region,” said Frank Hopf, senior director of racing operations at Colonial Downs. 

The 2025 race season at Colonial Downs will span a record-breaking 44 days, up from 27 in 2024, with live racing starting in March and continuing through a summer and fall schedule that includes the Festival of Racing on Aug. 9.

Tickets for the Virginia Derby and all other events can be purchased at ColonialDowns.com.