SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (NEWS10) -Next year: same time, same place. The Belmont Stakes will be back in the Spa City for its third and final year. Local businesses owners and managers told NEWS10’s Anthony Krolikowski and intern Noah Keim that they are excited for another chance at extra income and exposure.
Last Saturday, around 46,000 people came to Saratoga Race Course to place bets, totaling a little more than $100 million. Those same horse racing fans came to shop and eat on Broadway at places like Gilded.
“Compared to last year, we did have a lot more business. Yes it was raining the whole entire time basically but once again, that gave people an excuse. Instead of going to the races, a lot of people went later in the day and spent,” recalled Stephanie Ginter.
Not every business made more than a typical weekend in June. Stores like G. Willikers said big events like Belmont help bring them recognition. “It’s not really about more business. It’s just about more traffic and more awareness of our city and I think it’s puts us on a little more of a national stage,” explained Caty Hogan.
Selling original oil paintings on Broadway is Dave Papa, who considers his line of work a hobby. While his subjects are mainly animals, much of his pieces feature horse racing and Belmont adds to his inspiration and wallet. “Last year was great during Belmont, this year was fantastic so I am looking forward to next year.”
June 2026 is when the Belmont Stakes will return to Saratoga Springs. Belmont Park in Long Island is set to reopen the following September.
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