DEL MAR — As the 2014 season of thoroughbred racing at Del Mar winds down, officials are gearing up for the inaugural Bing Crosby fall meet, which will feature a Gatsby-style opening-day party with all the glitz, glamour and headwear that implies.
Described as “old Hollywood meets classic Southern California cool,” the added season will pay tribute to the 1930s, when Bing Crosby and some of his celebrity friends founded the seaside track.
There will be 15 racing days Thursdays through Sundays, with an earlier daily post time of noon on weekends and 12:30 p.m. on weekdays. Post time will be at 11 a.m., however, Nov. 27, which is Thanksgiving Day.
The Nov. 7 opening-day event will include an old-Hollywood fashion contest, with awards for best-dressed couple, best old-Hollywood and best celebrity lookalike.
Saturday concerts include a reggae festival featuring Iration on Nov. 15 and the alternative rock band Cake on Nov. 29.
Football fans can take in a day of racing and NFL action in the Cabana Football Lounge, with multiple TV screens, bars and food options.
The Hollywood Derby, the biggest race of the new meet, and a craft beer festival are scheduled for Nov. 29. Admission is free on closing day Nov. 30.
Admission is $6 for the general public and $3 for Diamond Club members, who get in free every Friday except for opening day.
At the end of the meet work will begin to replace the synthetic turf course.
Call (858) 755-1141 or visit delmarscene.com for more information.
