The annual Camel and Ostrich Races in Virginia City might be some of the most unique things you’ve ever watched. There’s no denying Virginia City’s uniqueness here in the Silver State. The town is a strange blend of history, hauntings, and vibrancy. Visiting this one-of-a-kind community should be a bucket list item for every Nevadan. If you have yet to visit, you’ll want to start planning a trip ASAP. Lucky for us, one of Virginia City’s most bizarre events is coming up and there’s no better time. The annual Camel Races are a time-honored tradition that will (hopefully) never die and it’s an extraordinary sight that you’ll have to see with your own eyes on Sept. 6-8, 2024. Let’s check out some camel racing in Nevada.

The 65th Annual Camel and Ostrich Races in Virginia City are coming up soon and it's a bizarre event that must be seen to be believed.
Annual Camel and Ostrich Races in Virginia City
Serolynne/Flickr
You definitely don't want to miss out on the races this year.
Camel racing in Nevada is definitely a sight that you won't see anywhere else.
Annual Camel and Ostrich Races in Virginia City
sandwich/Flickr
Only in Virginia City will you witness people actually riding on the backs of camels and ostriches in an intense race to the finish line. Yes, it sounds utterly bizarre; but it's also oh-so-entertaining.
This hilarious affair dates back to the late 1950s. It all started when Virginia City's newspaper published a false news story about racing camels.
Annual Camel and Ostrich Races in Virginia City
sandwich/Flickr
It was all out of good fun but the editor of the San Francisco Chronicle thought it was real and published a story about it.
The editor was less than pleased when he found it was a joke, so the next year the San Francisco Chronicle actually showed up with camels to race!
sandwich/Flickr
It was at this moment that camel racing in Virginia City was born, and it's been considered a quirky but beloved tradition ever since.

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Every year, jockeys climb up onto camels, ostriches, and even zebras and race them around the track in historic Virginia City.
Annual Camel and Ostrich Races in Virginia City
Gerry/Flickr
Thousands of spectators turn out to get a glimpse of one of Nevada's strangest events - all the while the sound of banjos, harmonicas, and raucous laughter cheer the participants on!
sandwich/Flickr
Tickets can be purchased for individual races that take place over the weekend. Seats for this event range from grandstands to VIPs - we like the variety of options available.
Don't miss out on this zany event! No matter your age or where you're from, this is a special experience that will have you hooting and hollering until your voice gives out.
Annual Camel and Ostrich Races in Virginia City
sandwich/Flickr
Parking is available in town and at the Virginia City Fairgrounds & Arena where a complimentary golf cart awaits to assist the elderly, disabled, and those with limited mobility.
sandwich/Flicker
You can also hop on one of the free shuttles to explore the wonders of Virginia City! Shuttles operate on Saturday and Sunday, to and from C Street and the Fairgrounds and Arena.

Annual Camel and Ostrich Races in Virginia City offers more information on its web page. This looks beyond bizarre, but also strangely entertaining. Have you ever attended this exciting event? Please let us know in the comments below.

While you’re there, discover more unique reasons to visit the historic Virginia City! Make it a long weekend by reserving a sweet Vrbo.

This Is The Most Historic Small Town In Nevada And You Need To Visit

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More to Explore

Camels In Nevada

Carolyn Harmon | May 31, 2024

Where else can I see camels in Nevada?

  • Camel Safari (Bunkerville):  A 176-acre lovely zoo allows close encounters of the furry and exotic kind. The guided safari tours are by reservation only and include a ride in a luxury UTV, on the Safari Tram, or the back of a camel (our choice).

Where else can I experience racing in Nevada?

  • Vegas Superkarts (Las Vegas): If you want to have your mind blown, try out this experience at SPEEDVEGAS Driving Center, the world’s largest motorsports park! You can race go-karts on an outdoor, 1,600-foot-long racetrack that includes 10 turns. Race where the pros race and bring your friends along for a group event.
  • STIHL National Championship Air Races (Reno): Not only is this a great race to watch with pilots coming in from all over the world to compete, but you get to see the amazing aircraft up close! For more than 50 years, spectators have shown up to watch airplanes race at speeds exceeding 500 miles per hour.
  • Dragon Boat Festival (Sparks): Located at the Sparks Marina, Chinese dragon boat racing is one summer event you don't want to miss. In addition, enjoy the vendors and exhibitors in the Health and Wellness Village, and indulge in the delicious eats at the Food Truck Bazaar.

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Featured Addresses
Virginia City Fairgrounds, 435 L St, Virginia City, NV 89440, USA