American Idol Star Grayson Torrence to Perform at Colonial Downs Festival of Racing

~ The Top 24 contestant from American Idol’s most recent season will return home for a live concert and special performances this Saturday during the biggest day of racing in Virginia history ~

NEW KENT, Va. (August 6, 2025)—Grayson Torrence, a 21-year-old pop singer/songwriter, New Kent County native, and Top 24 contestant in the most recent season of American Idol, will return home this Saturday, August 9 for a special performance at Colonial Downs Racetrack during the 2025 Festival of Racing.

Because The Race is Just the Start, Grayson will entertain fans throughout the day’s race card and offer a special performance of the National Anthem. Admission for this special homecoming concert is included with every ticket for the 2025 Festival of Racing.

Covered and indoor seats for the 2025 Festival of Racing are close to selling out, but General Admission tickets are still available for just $5 (children five and under free) and limited tables remain for dining-included admission in the Colonial Downs banquet room. All tickets can be purchased at www.ColonialDowns.com for this premium racing day.

About Grayson Torrence
Grayson Torrence is a 21-year-old accomplished vocalist and composer from Richmond, Virginia. Her distinctive voice and artistry have captivated a wide range of audiences, with appearances spanning Top 24 Finalist on American Idol Season 23, major festivals, sporting events, and performances throughout the Nashville music circuit.

Currently, Grayson is in the studio recording a dynamic collection of songs that showcase her versatility across multiple genres. The first single is slated for release in Fall 2025 accompanied by a targeted social media campaign. Fans can also look forward to a special holiday track set to debut ahead of the 2025 holiday season.

Looking ahead to 2026, Grayson’s management team is preparing for an official “Grayson Rollout,” which will include continued touring, new music releases, personal appearances, and expansions into the design and branding sectors—further solidifying Grayson Torrence as a multi-faceted artist on the rise.

About the 2025 Festival of Racing
The 2025 Festival of Racing will be the biggest day of racing in Virginia history with horses, jockeys, and race teams from around the world, including 2024 Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan and the three most recent Kentucky Derby winning jockeys, gathering in New Kent County to compete for more than $2.8 million in prize money over twelve races including the Arlington Million with its $1 million purse, the Beverly D. and Secretariat Stakes with $500,00 purses, and other six figure races.

Because The Race is Just the Start, the 2025 Festival of Racing will also feature:

• special tributes to Virginia’s veteran and military communities; including free general admission to retired and active military (must present ID);
• live music from American Idol contestant and New Kent native Grayson Torrence during the race card;
• a classic race day hat contest where the winner receives a table for four to the 2026 Virginia Derby;
• commemorative tumbler giveaway (while supplies last);
• 15 lucky ticket purchasers will receive a free $100 Win bet (Must purchase tickets by 10:00am on Friday, August 8) to qualify; and family friendly activities including local food trucks, a petting zoo, facepainting, and more!

Entrants for the day’s biggest races include horses with multiple graded stakes victories on their resumes, including 2024 Kentucky Derby champion Mystik Dan who will make his turf debut with jockey Brian Hernandez, Jr. who rode him to victory in that signature race. 2023 Virginia Derby winner Integration will return to Colonial Downs seeking the $1 million Arlington Million purse. Irish import Cairo will make his American debut after strong showings in Europe and Asia, while 2025 Kentucky Derby winning jockey Junior Alvarado will ride in both the Arlington Million and Secretariat Stakes.