Emerald Downs in Auburn, Washington, has become known for its unique and entertaining races that go beyond traditional horse racing, aiming to amuse families during the half-hour breaks between races. Starting with wiener dog races in 1999, the track now hosts a variety of fun events including corgi and bulldog races, diaper derbies for babies, kids’ races, grandparents’ races, and even T-Rex costume races, which have gained viral popularity and attract participants from across the globe. These events are designed to create a lively, family-friendly atmosphere that encourages fans to enjoy the sport and return regularly.

In addition to these quirky races, Emerald Downs recently drew a crowd of 10,000 spectators for the Indian Relay races, a thrilling bareback horse contest. Track director Phil Ziegler emphasizes that the goal is to build a fan base for horse racing by providing a full day of excitement and smiles for attendees. Upcoming events include the Family Fun Weekend with diaper and kids’ races, the T-Rex World Championships, and the Corgi World Championships, all contributing to the track’s reputation as a place for diverse and engaging entertainment.