It’s the 66th International Camel & Ostrich Races and its guaranteed to be as hilariously crazy as it sounds! Watch as camels, ostriches and even zebras gather in Virginia City to carry daring riders across the finish line in this family-friendly, must-see event.

Unfamiliar with this popular Northern Nevada event? Check it out in the video below!

THE SHOW

With four shows across three days, this is fantastic fun you won’t want to miss. You may even get your chance to ride on a camel!

  • Hot Camel Nights – a special Friday evening performance at 5 p.m.
  • Saturday 2-shows – 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
  • Saturday’s Camel Hump to C Street – 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
  • Sunday Family Day – 12 p.m. show, first 100 kids ride a camel for free

SEATS & SHUTTLES

Seats for this event range from grandstands to VIP – something for everyone. Choose between the grandstands which offer a chance to feel the action with the crowds or shaded options in premium seating.

For the ultimate experience, select VIP which is air conditioned with tables and a fully stocked bar.

Need to get around? Hop on one of the free shuttles to explore all things Virginia City!

On Saturday and Sunday, the shuttles run to and from C Street and the Fairgrounds and Arena.

Before or after the show, grab a bite at one of our restaurants, peruse the one-of-a-kind shops for unique gifts, grab a drink at one of the famous saloons, go on a mine or ghost tour, discover history in one of the town’s many museums, and get an old-time photo to commemorate the day.

Make a weekend of it and View Virginia City’s lodging options here.

THE LEGEND

One of Nevada’s most iconic events started because of a prank war between Virginia City’s Territorial Enterprise and the San Francisco Chronicle.

In 1959, the editor of the Enterprise wrote a fake story about camels racing in Virginia City. The Chronicle didn’t realize it was a hoax and printed it.

The following year, they borrowed camels from the San Francisco Zoo and took them to Virginia City to race them.

And that’s how a tradition was born.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

1) Kids 2 and under are FREE! They must sit on a lap.

2) Parking is available at the Virginia City Fairgrounds & Arena and in town. A complimentary golf cart runs from the Fairgrounds parking lot to the arena to assist the elderly, disabled and those with limited mobility.

3) No pets are allowed inside the venue because they spook the animals. The event complies with all state and federal laws regarding service animals. If you require a service animal, the animal must stay away from the arena fence.

4) No umbrellas are allowed inside the venue because they block the view for other race fans.

5) No outside food or drink is allowed inside venue.

6) No weapons of any kind are allowed inside the venue.

7) ALL VCTC EVENTS ARE RAIN OR SHINE AND NON-REFUNDABLE

Photo and/or video may be produced from this event, and by purchasing this ticket you are consenting to allow your likeness to be used in future Virginia City marketing materials.