Shenandoah Downs Celebrates Milestone with Opening of New $2 Million Multi-Use Barn
The Virginia Equine Alliance (VEA) celebrated the opening of a new $2 million multi-use barn at Shenandoah Downs, a decade after introducing pari-mutuel harness racing to Shenandoah County. The 165-stall facility, located at the Shenandoah County Fairgrounds, will cater to the racing community and host agricultural events throughout the year. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matt Lohr and VEA Executive Director Jeb Hannum.
The new barn, which will accommodate racehorses during the spring and fall meets and livestock during the county fair and other community events, symbolizes the region's blend of tradition and progress. Harness racing has been a longstanding tradition in Shenandoah County, with events held annually during the county fair for over a century. The VEA's partnership with the Shenandoah County Fair Association in 2016 paved the way for the establishment of Shenandoah Downs, ushering in a new era for Virginia racing.
Shenandoah Downs has seen steady growth since its inception, expanding from a five-week fall schedule to a 14-week racing season each year. The 2025 season marks the tenth anniversary of the first pari-mutuel race meet, continuing a legacy that spans generations. The new barn, funded entirely by the VEA, enhances safety, capacity, and amenities for horsemen and their animals, reflecting the organization's commitment to reinvesting in Virginia's equine infrastructure.
Construction of the new facility began in 2024 and was completed in time for the fall meet at Shenandoah Downs. The barn's versatility allows it to serve as a stabling facility for racing horses and livestock during the county fair, contributing to the community year-round. As Shenandoah Downs solidifies its reputation as a regional harness racing destination, the addition of the multi-use barn underscores its dedication to preserving rural traditions in Virginia's horse country.
The fall meet at Shenandoah Downs commences on Saturday, Sept. 13, and runs through Sunday, Oct. 26, with races scheduled every Saturday and Sunday at 1:05 p.m. For more information about the meet, visit shenandoahdowns.com. The new barn at Shenandoah Downs represents a significant milestone in the region's racing history, embodying a commitment to both the sport and the agricultural heritage that define Virginia's equine community.