The 2026 Las Cienegas Stakes is scheduled for Sunday, January 11, 2026, and will be held at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California. Run annually since 1974, this Grade III turf sprint is contested by fillies and mares ages four and up, making it one of the winter meet’s highlights for older female sprinters. The event reflects Santa Anita’s rich tradition of showcasing top-class turf racing over a picturesque course at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains.
This year’s edition will be run at a distance of 6.5 furlongs on turf, consistent with its recent format. With a purse of $100,000, the Las Cienegas continues to attract deep, competitive fields of talented mares, known for thrilling finishes and tactical riding. The race is popular among prominent trainers and owners aiming to claim graded stakes honors and a significant share of the winter purse money.
Santa Anita Park provides a celebrated backdrop for the Las Cienegas Stakes, offering fans classic art deco architecture and world-class hospitality. Crowds gather to witness turf specialists display their speed and agility on the downhill course, which is unique to Santa Anita and marks the event as a distinctive feature in the stakes schedule. The festive meet atmosphere heightens the stakes for connections and fans alike as the new year’s racing calendar unfolds.
The Las Cienegas Stakes continues its legacy of identifying elite turf sprinters who often go on to compete in major races throughout the season. Past editions are remembered for memorable stretch duels and the emergence of standout mares, adding to its reputation as a must-watch event for turf racing enthusiasts. Owners, trainers, and spectators eagerly anticipate the annual renewal, which reliably produces exciting moments and sets the tone for the remainder of the Santa Anita winter meet.
2026 Las Cienegas Stakes at the Santa Anita Park – Saturday, January 11th, 2026. Race and time to be determined as it gets closer to raceday!
