Virginia City’s most rip-roaring tradition, the 66th Annual International Camel and Ostrich Races at the Virginia City Fairgrounds began Friday and continues Saturday through Sunday, Sept. 6-7.
Over the course of three days and four shows, professional and amateur jockeys will saddle up and race camels, ostriches, zebras and emus. In between races, visitors can enjoy carnival-style bites from local food trucks, browse artists and craft vendors and cool off with a variety of beverages at event bars. Tickets for the event are available online here.
“This event has taken on a life of its own over the past 66 years from its beginnings as a prank between Virginia City’s Territorial Enterprise and the San Francisco Chronicle,” said Todd Tuttle, tourism director in Virginia City. “This event now draws people from all over to see camels, ostriches and zebras race in the middle of our historic town. We invite everyone to come experience the races for themselves and make a weekend of it in Virginia City.”
The weekend features four race shows, each with its own mix of humor and unpredictability as riders attempt to steer their animals across the finish line. The schedule of events include:
● Saturday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. – 2 shows
● Saturday, Sept. 6 at 12:30 p.m. – Camel Hump on C Street
● Sunday, Sept. 7 at 12 p.m. – Family Day with free camel rides for first 100 kids
Multiple seating options are available, including open-air bleachers, shaded premium seating and an enclosed VIP Tent with tables and a private bar. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance as this event typically sells out. Children age 2 and under are free when seated on an adult’s lap.
Parking will be available at the Virginia City Fairgrounds and Arena and in town, with a complimentary golf cart service for the elderly, disabled and those with limited mobility. For overflow traffic, free shuttles will be running on Saturday, Sept. 6 and Sunday, Sept. 7 transporting guests to and from C Street and the fairgrounds. Visitors are encouraged to explore Virginia City before and after the races, enjoying local restaurants, unique shops, historic saloons, mine tours, ghost tours and museums. For more information on the 66th International Camel & Ostrich Races, visit their website at visitvirginiacitynv.com, call Virginia City Tourism Commission at 775-847-7500 or follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
