GET READY TO ROCK AT THE RACES WITH COLONIAL DOWNS BATTLE OF THE BANDS COMPETITION
Posted on June 1st, 2026
~ Bands and musical artists from around the region will compete for cash and the opportunity to perform live at Colonial Downs during Labor Day weekend ~
NEW KENT, Va. (June 1, 2026)—Colonial Downs is turning up the volume with a Battle of the Bands to celebrate our region’s incredible talent during live racing throughout Labor Day weekend. Bands and musical artists can enter now by submitting a performance video at www.ColonialDowns.com. Selected finalists will compete in a fan-voted social media contest, with the top three bands earning cash prizes and live performance opportunities at Colonial Downs.
“There is unbelievable talent in our region just waiting for a chance to shine,” said Bella Hodge, Racing Marketing Manager at Colonial Downs. “Whether your band plays country, rock, R&B, or anything in between, we want to give you the chance to take the stage in front of thousands of Virginia race fans. Entries are open now and fan voting will determine the winners, so get your fans ready to rock with you!”
Performance videos can be submitted until midnight on June 26 at www.ColonialDowns.com. Fan voting will be held from July 1 to July 20 with winners announced on July 30.
The winning band will win a $2,500 cash prize and a chance to perform at the Old Dominion Derby on Monday, September 7. Second place will earn a $1,000 cash prize and performance opportunity on Sunday, September 6, while third place will claim a $500 cash prize and a performance slot on Saturday, September 5.
For full rules and details, visit www.ColonialDowns.com.
Live racing will return to Colonial Downs on Thursday, June 25 with a record setting schedule, new affordable ticket options, a new day of weekend racing each week, unique entertainment and promotions, and high-stakes thoroughbred racing.
Colonial Downs will host 45 days of live racing each Thursday through Sunday from June 25 through a special day of racing on Labor Day, Monday, September 7. This will be the most days of live racing in the nearly thirty-year history of Colonial Downs Racetrack.
Admission is free nearly every day with general admission tickets for three Premium Racing Events available at the fan-friendly price of just $5. Reserved and covered seating, as well as seats in Colonial Downs’ premium areas like 1609 and the Jockeys Club, can be purchased at www.ColonialDowns.com.
