The Columbusite's 2026 Race Day Guide to Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens
Heading to Steeplechase on Saturday, November 7? Here's everything you need to know before you go, including the Race Day schedule, tickets, parking, family activities, contests, and more.
Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens returns Saturday, November 7, 2026, bringing one of the Chattahoochee Valley's most beloved fall traditions back to the track for another year of racing, community, and giving back.
For more than four decades, Steeplechase has brought generations of families and friends together to celebrate a tradition that directly supports the arts in our region.
We're grateful for the incredible impact Steeplechase continues to make in Columbus, Georgia, and we're looking forward to another wonderful Race Day!
Here's your guide to making the most of it.
STILL NEED TICKETS?
There are several ways to experience Steeplechase, including Terrace Boxes, Reserved Rail spaces, the Stretch Patio, and family-friendly Infield packages.
Kids under 12 receive free admission, however for $10 each they can access the Columbus Clingstones Kids Corral. This fun area includes inflatables, face painting, cotton candy, popcorn, and more! Wristbands are available online now, and will be for sale on site at Race Day.
THE 2026 RACE DAY SCHEDULE
The front gates open at 9 AM, with a full day of racing, entertainment, and activities planned throughout the grounds. Here are a few highlights you won't want to miss!
Time | Event |
9:00 AM | Front Gates Open |
10:00 AM | Blade and Bow Terrace Opens; Columbus Clingstones Kids Corral Opens |
11:00 AM | Atholl Highlanders Bagpipes and Drums; Midland Foxhounds Parade |
11:30 AM | Race Director's Welcome and Special Presentations |
11:45 AM | National Anthem, Presentation of Colors, and Invocation |
12:00 PM | Fun Size Stakes |
12:10 PM | Maxine Strupe Perpetual Pony Race |
12:30 PM | Callaway Blue Tailgate & Tablescape Contest Judging Begins |
12:35 PM | Stick Pony Races |
1:00 PM | Race 1: W.C. Bradley Steeplethon |
1:15 PM | Steeplechase Hat Contest |
1:50 PM | Race 2: Blade and Bow Maiden Hurdle |
2:05 PM | Corgi Races |
2:40 PM | Race 3: Aflac Supreme Hurdle |
2:55 PM | Tailgate & Tablescape Contest Awards |
3:00 PM | Silent Auction Closes |
3:15 PM | Raffle Drawing |
3:30 PM | Race 4: Standard Concrete Maiden Claiming Hurdle |
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Steeplechase is a wonderful opportunity to introduce younger generations to one of our region's favorite traditions.
This year's Columbus Clingstones Kids Corral opens at 10 AM in the Infield, offering a dedicated space for family fun. Remember, Kids Corral wristbands are available through Steeplechase's ticketing website, and will also be sold on Race Day in person.
Be sure to catch the Stick Pony Races at 12:35 PM in front of Terrace Box, Section A, located right across from the Hughston Race Officials Tower. They will be followed by the Corgi Races at 2:05 PM which will happen near the finish line. This year is the first time Corgi Races have ever been at Steeplechase at Callaway, so don't miss them!
DON'T MISS THE RACE DAY CONTESTS!
The excitement isn't limited to the horses!
The Steeplechase Hat Contest, presented by Pursona and Magnolia Hill, begins at 1:15 PM. It's one of our favorite Race Day traditions and a wonderful excuse to show off your best Race Day style.
The Callaway Blue Tailgate & Tablescape Contest celebrates the creativity and hospitality that make Steeplechase such a memorable experience. Judging begins at 12:30 PM, with winners announced at 2:55 PM.
THIS YEAR'S RACE DAY ARTIST + ARTWORK
One of our favorite Steeplechase traditions is the annual commissioning of a work of art to commemorate Race Day.
This year's featured artist is Austin Williams, whose painting Neck and Neck captures the excitement of two racehorses running shoulder to shoulder.
A Georgia native now based in Thomasville, Williams draws inspiration from the landscapes, wildlife, and sporting traditions of the rural South.
We recently had the opportunity to speak with Williams about his creative journey and the inspiration behind this year's artwork.
THE SILENT AUCTION + RAFFLE
Here's another way to support the arts on Race Day!
Steeplechase's annual Silent Auction and Raffle provide additional opportunities to contribute to the event's charitable mission.
Guests can participate through the Handbid app, and the Silent Auction is scheduled to close at 3 PM on Race Day.
This year's raffle includes three prizes: a $5,000 cash prize, a collection of gifts from Steeplechase's six beneficiaries, and a custom scarf and framed print featuring artwork by Austin Williams.
The raffle drawing takes place at 3:15 PM.
THE BENEFICIARIES: RACING FOR THE ARTS
Did you know Steeplechase is about so much more than horse racing?
Since its founding in 1984, Steeplechase has raised more than $4.4 million dollars to support arts, culture, and historic preservation organizations serving the Chattahoochee Valley.
This year's six beneficiaries are:
The Columbus Museum
RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
Springer Opera House
Columbus Symphony Orchestra
Historic Columbus
The Ida and Cason Callaway Foundation
These organizations contribute to the cultural life of our community through exhibitions, performances, education, preservation, and public programming. When you attend Steeplechase, you're helping make their work possible.
PARKING + THE RACE DAY MAP
Steeplechase takes place at 2458 Nelson Road, Pine Mountain, Georgia 31822.
Parking arrangements vary depending on your ticket or hospitality package, and additional parking passes may be purchased through the official website. We recommend checking your tickets to verify the location of where you are parking and then follow the signs on Race Day to that area.
WHAT TO BRING + KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
A little planning goes a long way toward a great day at the track!
Guests are permitted to bring coolers, outside food and beverages, and grills. Alcohol may also be brought into the event or purchased on-site.
For reserved rail guests, one 10-by-10-foot tent, along with tables and chairs, is permitted per space.
A few important reminders:
Children ages 12 and under are admitted free.
Minors must be supervised, and children under 12 must have an adult when crossing the track.
Pets are not permitted, with the exception of service animals.
Fireworks, firearms, drones, inflatable structures, and illegal substances are prohibited.
If you're enjoying alcoholic beverages, please plan for a designated driver.
Guests planning to order food for their parties can also explore Steeplechase's preferred caterers and Race Day menus on the official website.
QUESTIONS?
For the latest Race Day updates, ticket information, parking details, and event announcements, visit steeplechaseatcallaway.com or follow @steeplechasin on Instagram and Facebook.
We can't wait to see everyone at the track!
Thank you for continuing to support Steeplechase and the arts organizations that make our community such a special place to call home. We'll see you on Race Day! ◾️
