Manacor Hippodrome will host 21 nights of trotting races from July until September 12, always at 20:30. The events are temporarily moving to Manacor while the Son Pardo Hippodrome is being renovated.
The summer of 2026 brings back a classic event in Mallorca's sports calendar: the night trotting races at Manacor Hippodrome. The Institut de l’Esport Hípic de Mallorca (IEHM), under the Consell de Mallorca, has scheduled a total of 21 racing meetings to be held from early July until September 12, always starting at 20:30.
The shift to night-time is not coincidental. The main aim is to ensure the horses' welfare during the hottest months, avoiding peak sunlight hours and reducing the thermal stress on the animals. This way, both the equines and the professionals can compete under much more favourable conditions.
Temporary Move to Manacor Due to Son Pardo Renovations
During this summer, all races will be held temporarily at the Manacor Hippodrome while the comprehensive renovation of the historic Son Pardo Hippodrome in Palma continues. The reform, deemed strategic for the future of trotting in Mallorca, includes the complete modernisation of the competition track.
According to the Consell de Mallorca, if the planned timelines are met, Son Pardo will resume hosting races from August 28, 2026. Until then, Manacor becomes the epicentre of night trotting on the island, providing an opportunity for fans in the Llevant region to enjoy the spectacle close to home.
More than Races: The Traditional Outdoor Dinner
But the night races are not just about sport. Each event will include the traditional “sopar a la fresca”, a gastronomic proposal that turns the evenings into a complete plan for the whole family. The relaxed atmosphere, dining options, and proximity to the track make these nights an ideal choice for both horse enthusiasts and those seeking different plans in Mallorca.
As a note, and with a bit of tongue-in-cheek, it must be said that few things are more Mallorcan than dining outdoors while watching the trotters pass under the stars. The sopar a la fresca is, in itself, a small summer ritual that withstands modernity.
A Renewed Tradition
Trotting is one of the most deeply rooted sports in Mallorca. Each season brings together owners, breeders, riders, and numerous fans who passionately follow the competitions. The night races at Manacor Hippodrome help keep this tradition alive during the summer months while bringing this sport to new audiences thanks to a more attractive format adapted to high temperatures.
For the residents of Manacor and surrounding areas, this programme offers an extra incentive: the chance to enjoy a top-level sporting event without having to travel to Palma. Additionally, entry is open and the family-friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect plan for summer nights.
In short, the 21 nights of trotting races at Manacor Hippodrome are solidifying as one of the most original proposals to enjoy summer in Mallorca. The combination of sport, tradition, gastronomy, and outdoor leisure promises unforgettable nights. The event starts at 20:30, from July until September 12.
You may also like
