Hastings Racecourse Promotions & Events
Racecourse & Casino in Vancouver, BC, offers lucrative promotions and events to improve the experience of casino players. Some of these are:
- Lunar New Cash Draws: Hastings Racecourse and Casino is celebrating Lunar New Year from January 1 to February 10, 2024. The highlight is the cash draw event on February 10, with over $5,800 in guaranteed prizes. Draws are scheduled at 4 PM PT ($188), 6 PM PT ($888), 8 PM PT ($1,888), and the final draw at 10 PM PT ($2,888). This celebration offers a festive experience in line with Lunar New Year traditions.
- Diamond Touch Auto Detailing: During a visit to Hastings Racecourse & Casino, visitors can access car detailing services from Diamond Touch Auto. Encore Rewards members are offered a special rate for a Ceramic Coat and Full Car Detailing Package, priced at $525. This service provides a convenient option for guests to have their car detailed while enjoying their time at the racecourse and casino.
- Live Thoroughbred Racing: Events for racing fans such as the BC Derby, BC Oaks, and BC Cup.
- Season-Opening Parties: Marking the commencement of the racing season with special celebrations that attract crowds.
- Wiener Dog Races: A unique and entertaining event for racing fans.
Hastings Horse Racing & Gaming Attractions
Hastings Racecourse & Casino offers a collection of unique experiences by combining traditional and modern forms of entertainment.
Horse Racing at Hastings Racecourse
Hastings Racecourse, since its inception in 1889, has been a popular destination for live thoroughbred racing in Vancouver, BC.
- Racing Features: The racecourse, with its 5-furlong dirt track, hosts stakes like the British Columbia Derby, Lieutenant Governor's Handicap, and British Columbia Oaks.
- Live Racing: Bettors can either witness the live racing events or follow them through the live feed.
- Simulcast Racing: This feature allows followers to tune into races from other locations, enhancing the racing experience throughout the year.
- Wagering: Resources for placing bets, checking schedules, and viewing current prize pools are readily available, with a "Wagering 101" section on the website for newcomers.
- Live Streaming: Live streaming on YouTube engages race specialists, bridging the gap between the racecourse and global fans.
- Engagement for Horsemen: A dedicated online section caters to horsemen, providing resources and information.
Slot Machine Offerings
Hastings Racecourse & Casino offers a unique slots experience for players.
- Robust Collection: Over 500 slot machines are available at Hastings Racecourse & Casino, giving fans a great experience.
- Race to Win Progressive Jackpot: A great progressive jackpot where players can win up to $10,000.
- Encore Rewards Card: Points are won on every spin and ca be redeemed for bonus play.
Dining and Entertainment at Hastings Racecourse
Hastings Racecourse & Casino caters to a wide range of players using a wide variety of culinary options.
Dining Options
Two exclusive dining options can be found at Hastings Racecourse & Casino, which are:
- Jerome's Restaurant: Located off the Racebook, this eatery provides a wide range of meals and great horse racing views.
- Silks Buffet: Silks offers a buffet spectacle on race days, combining great meals with the excitement of horse racing.
Live Shows & Performances
Some popular events at Hastings Racecourse & Casino are:
- Yuk Yuk's Comedy Nights: A recurring event hosting comedians like Jon Gagnon, Robert Peng, and Sunee Dhaliwal.
- Eclipse Lounge Performances: Located adjacent to the gaming floor, this lounge is used as a stage for live music and other performances.
Local Art Exhibits & Displays
This casino offers art and culture through special events such as the Cup Event. This is an annual event featuring art exhibitions hosted in summer.
Hastings Racecourse Loyalty Programs
Membership at Hastings Racecourse & Casino offers players an exclusive experience.
Earn Points
Some easy ways to earn points are:
- Rock Star Program: A four-tier program where players earn loyalty points by playing casino games
- Dining Points: Players also earn points by making purchases at dining spots
Exclusive Member Events and Offers
Some exclusive member offers are:
- Exclusive Offers and VIP Contests: Birthday celebrations, and VIP contests help to improve the experience of members
- Special Receptions: Exclusive receptions are hosted among members
- Special Tournaments and Parties: Member-exclusive tournaments, parties, and rewards are also offered by the casino
- Iconic Racing Events: The BC Derby, BC Oaks, BC Cup, and Deighton Cup are some of the racing events hosted by the casino
History of Hastings Racecourse
Hastings Racecourse & Casino has a rich history in Vancouver’s gaming and racing industry.
The Origin of Hastings Racecourse & Casino
Some highlights about the early days of Hastings Racecourse & Casino are:
- Inception as East Park: Opened in 1889, originally known as East Park, marking a historic moment in Vancouver’s professional sports facilities landscape.
- Transition to Hastings Racecourse: Despite its official name change, the venue was known as Exhibition Park Race Track before adopting the Hastings Racecourse identity.
- Holistic Entertainment Venue: Beyond racing, it has a casino with around 500 slot machines and dining options.
Pioneers of Hastings Racecourse & Casino
The success of Hastings Racecourse & Casino is credited to:
- Electric Starting Gate Introduction: The innovation by Texan Clay Puett on July 1, 1939, marked a significant milestone in thoroughbred racing at the venue.
- Mario Gutierrez's Global Recognition: The Mexican-born jockey, who started his career at Hastings and claimed some international win in 2012.
Evolution Over the Years
Some major changes at Hastings Racecourse & Casino are:
- Early Relocation and Establishment: Set on a 15-acre plot, the racecourse transitioned to a central location near downtown Granville Townsite.
- Mid-Century Renovations: Some modern renovations, including track length extension and grandstand construction before the 1965 season.
- Continual Legacy: Despite financial hurdles and ownership transitions, the racecourse, now sprawling over 45 acres, offers horse racing, gambling, and other forms of entertainment in Vancouver.
Visiting Vancouver
The attraction of Vancouver extends beyond Hastings Racecourse & Casino. It’s a city where nature intertwines with culture, offering many experiences beyond gaming, promising an adventure that suits every preference.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Some attractions close to Hastings Racecourse & Casino are:
- Stanley Park: This attraction offers seawall walks, iconic totem poles, beaches, and lush gardens
- Picturesque Surroundings: The casino presents a view of the North Shore mountains and Burrard Inlet
- Iconic Landmarks: There are many popular landmarks such as the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Capilano Suspension Bridge
Accommodation Options
Hastings Racecourse & Casino provides a wide variety of accommodation options.
- Seaside Hotel: A luxury hotel at 130-125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, roughly 3.9 km from the racecourse
- Budget-Friendly Stay: At 4331 Dominion St, Burnaby, a modest yet comfortable lodging option located about 2.5 miles from the racecourse
- Downtown Property: Located at 711 West Broadway, Vancouver, this property is just 0.32 miles west of the racecourse, featuring meeting rooms for business events
- Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown: Approximately 5.19 km from the racecourse, offering cheap comfort
Local Festivals & Seasonal Events
Vancouver hosts many cultural events, such as:
- Music Festivities: A year-round celebration with various music festivals and free outdoor concerts
- Celebration of Light: A summer fireworks spectacle synchronized with music illuminating Vancouver’s skies
- Autumn Celebrations: Harvest Days at VanDusen Garden, Latin American Heritage Month events, and the DTES Heart of the City Festival mark the fall season
- Richmond Night Market: From May to October, this event offers different cuisines, games, and entertainment
Conclusion
Hastings Racecourse & Casino in Vancouver, BC, offers a combination of both traditional and modern entertainment. It provides great entertainment such as horse racing, engaging casino games, and great attractions. This establishment offers not just a platform for gaming fans, but also for visitors who come for the cultural experience.
FAQs
- What are the notable racing events held at this casino? Prestigious events include the British Columbia Derby, the Lieutenant Governor's Handicap, and the British Columbia Oaks. These races attract horse racing enthusiasts and offer a vibrant racing atmosphere.
- What gaming attractions are available at Hastings Racecourse? The casino offers over 500 slot machines and live and simulcast horse racing. The exclusive Race to Win Progressive Jackpot provides an additional gaming thrill.
- Are there any membership perks at this casino? Yes, the Rock Star Program allows patrons to accrue loyalty points for gameplay and dining. Membership grants access to exclusive events and offers.
- What nearby attractions can visitors explore around Hastings Racecourse & Casino? Visitors can explore Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the Vancouver Art Gallery. These attractions offer a mix of nature and culture near the casino.
- What accommodation options are available near Hastings Racecourse & Casino? Options range from luxury stays like Seaside Hotel to budget lodgings at 4331 Dominion St, Burnaby. Various establishments cater to different budget preferences.
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Meri Zimic - Author & Contributor Meri Zimic is our Head Content Publisher on BCGambling.ca, with more than five years of expertise she is well versed in the online gambling space. Not a native of BC, but following the British Columbian market since the release of the first BCLC website.
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