The Fair Grounds Race Course is an institution in New Orleans. This historic track has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the roar of crowds, and the thunder of hooves. Right here, in the shadow of the grandstand, you can almost hear whispers of past triumphs and tragedies echoing through the centuries.
Founded in 1872, the Fair Grounds is the third oldest racetrack in the United States. It’s older than the Eiffel Tower, older than the Statue of Liberty, and older than the invention of the telephone! For well over a century, it has welcomed horse racing enthusiasts, from casual spectators to hard-core bettors, to witness the spectacle that is horse racing. But the history of this track goes back even further, to 1837, when it was called the Carrollton Race Course.
The Fair Grounds is a place where legends are made. Pan Zareta, a mare known for her incredible speed and tenacity, was buried on the track’s infield after dying in 1917. Black Gold, the winner of the 1924 Kentucky Derby, also met his final resting place on the track. The Fair Grounds is a living museum, a place where the legacy of these great horses is celebrated and remembered.
Beyond just a racetrack, the Fair Grounds has hosted other events, such as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. This sprawling event has taken place here since 1970 and draws hundreds of thousands of music lovers every year. It’s a place where the vibrant soul of New Orleans comes alive. So, as you stand before this iconic landmark, remember the generations of people who have walked these grounds before, and the stories they carry. The legacy of the Fair Grounds Race Course is one that will continue to be written for generations to come.