Big ‘Cap Day is the premier racing event at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California, centered around the historic Santa Anita Handicap (the “Big ‘Cap”). Established in 1935, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious Grade I dirt races for older horses in the United States. 

America’s Best Racing +4

Event Logistics (2026)

1. Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026.
2. Location: Santa Anita Park, Arcadia, CA.
3. Timing:
4. Gates Open: 10:00 AM.
5. First Post (Race 1): 12:00 PM.
6. Admission:
7. General: $10 (Walk-up or Online).
8. 1/ST REWARDS Members: $5.
9. Parking: Free General Parking. 

Santa Anita Park +2

Featured Stakes Races

The day features a high-stakes card with several graded events: 

1. Santa Anita Handicap (GI): 1 1/4 miles on dirt; $300,000 purse.
2. Frank E. Kilroe Mile (GI): 1 mile on turf; $300,000 purse.
3. Beholder Mile (GI): 1 mile on dirt for fillies and mares; $300,000 purse.
4. San Felipe Stakes (GII): 1 1/16 miles on dirt; a key Kentucky Derbyprep race. 

Santa Anita Park +4

Fan Activities & Traditions

1. Hat Giveaway: 1/ST REWARDS members typically receive a free commemorative Santa Anita hat.
2. Festivals:
3. Fiesta de Santa Anita: Infield celebration with music and food.
4. Big ‘Cap Beer Festival: Craft beer and cider tastings in the trackside apron.
5. Californian Motorcycle Show: A “double dose of horsepower” featuring vintage and custom bikes.
6. Family Fun Zone: Infield area with pony rides, face painting, and inflatable jumpers.
7. Betting Tournaments: The Ultimate Betting Challenge, a live-money handicapping tournament with seats to the National Handicapping Championship. 

Santa Anita Park +3

Historic Significance

The race is famous for its “ghosts”—legendary champions who have won the event, including: 

1. Seabiscuit(1940).
2. Affirmed(1979) and Spectacular Bid (1980).
3. John Henry(1981, 1982).
4. Game On Dude, the only three-time winner (2011, 2013, 2014).