Fair Hill in Cecil County, Maryland, is set to resume live horse racing for the first time since 2019, with a soft reopening scheduled for August 30, Labor Day weekend. The historic turf course, known as “America’s Aintree,” has undergone significant renovations including a new turf track with a modern sand base, Kentucky bluegrass, and advanced irrigation, receiving highly positive feedback from trainers. The event will feature six flat turf races, parimutuel wagering, and a family-friendly festival atmosphere with free admission and local vendors.

Looking ahead, organizers plan a larger Memorial Day 2026 event with steeplechase races and possibly two days of racing, aiming to revive Fair Hill’s legacy as a key Maryland racing venue and community hub. The races support local 4-H youth programs and celebrate the area’s equestrian heritage. With up to eight race days authorized by law, Fair Hill could also help alleviate turf scheduling pressures in Maryland’s racing circuit and potentially host future East Coast turf or jump racing series.