Harness racing will return to Fresno after a century-long absence under a new agreement between The Big Fresno Fair and Watch and Wager, LLC, making the city California’s only approved harness racing venue, fair officials announced.

The California Horse Racing Board unanimously approved 38 harness race dates for Fresno on Nov. 19, 2025, with races scheduled from December 2026 through May 2027, primarily on weekends. Final race license approval for Watch and Wager, a CHRB-approved racing operator, is expected at the board’s September 2026 meeting.

The Big Fresno Fair Board approved a two-year lease with Watch and Wager at its November 2025 meeting, designating the Fresno Fairgrounds as the state’s official home of live harness racing. The agreement expands year-round use of the Brian I. Tatarian Grandstand and includes in-person racing and wagering. Races will also be broadcast worldwide via satellite.

Step Forward for Horse Racing in Fresno

“This represents a significant step forward for horse racing in Fresno,” said Christina Estrada, CEO of The Big Fresno Fair. “The return of harness racing continues our longstanding tradition of live horse racing that dates back to 1884, while also driving positive economic impact and community engagement.”

Harness racing features Standardbred horses pulling two-wheeled carts called sulkies, guided by drivers rather than mounted jockeys. Horses compete at trotting or pacing gaits over a one-mile distance, beginning behind a mobile starting gate.

“We are incredibly excited to continue the legacy of California harness racing at the Fresno Fairgrounds,” said Ben Kenney, CFO, and Chris Schick, general manager of Watch and Wager LLC. They said the facility and the Fair’s vision drew interest from horsemen across the United States and western Canada.

Fair officials said a comprehensive plan and timeline for track preparation and facility improvements are underway. Harness racing will complement existing events and support continued improvement of the Grandstand and racing infrastructure.

“I want to thank Watch and Wager, our Fair Board, CDFA, CHRB and the Valley’s elected officials for their collaboration and support in making this milestone possible,” said Gary Chahil, president of the Big Fresno Fair Board of Directors.

Watch and Wager previously operated California’s only harness racing meet at Sacramento’s Cal Expo for 13 years. Cal Expo announced in April 2025 it would not renew the contract, ending harness racing there in May 2025.

More details about the Fresno meet will be available on the Fair’s website in July 2026.

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