Events & Things to do in Idaho Falls
Horse Racing at Sandy Downs
Sandy Downs is a large multi-purpose event venue in Idaho Falls. Found at the cross streets of Woodruff (15th) and 65th Ave, Sandy Downs is both centrally located and easy to find. Events in Idaho Falls of all kinds take place at Sandy Downs throughout the year. The circus, rodeo, car shows and today’s topic; horse racing, all take place at Sandy Downs. Let us give you the rundown of what’s happening out at our beloved race track during the horse race season.
Short, But Oh So Sweet!
Due to recent legislative changes, the Horse Racing season in Idaho does not last as long as it used to. The race season in Idaho Falls has been under 10 race days the past 2 years and we expect that again for 2017. However, this does not make the individual race nights any less amazing! Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse and even Indian Relay Races can be found here during the race season. The official website for Horse Racing at Sandy Downs can be found here, and this site should have the most up to date race information. Look on the calendar for an Indian Relay Race, they must not be missed!
The horse races are usually on a Saturday or Sunday in the afternoon. Occasionally, a night race is on the schedule and those are particularly special. The race season occurs in the late summer and Idaho weather is as close to perfect as you can get. The big lights at the arena make for quite a show towards the end of the night.
Gambling & Wagering in Idaho Falls
The best part about horse racing must be the chance for everyone (in the audience that is) to be a winner. While at the track you will see many of the seasoned veterans next to the wagering window, but don’t be discouraged if you are a first timer. The team who operates Sandy Downs is very good at helping those with a lack of horse wagering knowledge. If you are unfamiliar – You can wager on multiple bets on every single horse race. Once you understand how the game works, it’s not hard to hit a few winning bets before the night is over! Don’t be scared to try your luck, sometimes the payouts can be in the thousands!
The wagering that happens during the horse races are what really keeps this sport alive. The money helps pay jockeys, trainers and owners. It also helps keep the track and stable conditions in safe shape for all the 4 legged athletes! For more information on horse wagering and the ability to wager on horse races across the world check out this Idaho owned wagering company that helps keep Sandy Downs alive.
Other Events at Sandy Downs in Idaho Falls
- The War Bonnet Roundup is an annual rodeo event hosted at Sandy Downs that brings one of the largest rodeo crowds in Idaho. More information on 2017 rodeo dates can be found here – http://www.warbonnetroundup.org/
- The North American Brewers Brewfest is another HUGE annual event you should participate in at least once. Live music, local food, and hundreds of brewers serve up the very best craft beer money can buy. 2017’s beer fest is on the calendar for June 3rd. Find out more info on their website.
- It has not been confirmed, but rumor has it this years 4th of July celebration in Idaho Falls may take place in the area around Sandy Downs. The Melaleuca Freedom Celebration is the largest fireworks show west of the Mississippi, and is always an event in Idaho Falls the whole family can enjoy. The website has not been updated as of the date of this post, but watch it for an update.
Have you been to Sandy Downs? Do you have any questions? Want to chat with someone? Then leave us a comment below! We love to hear from our readers.