Erin Lanahan This race is for the dogs. The 8th annual running of the Meadowlands Racetrack Wiener Dog Derby returns to New Jersey on Saturday, June 6th. This family-friendly event is free and has plenty of food, drinks, and fun while the dogs race to see who’s the fastest Dachshund. Here’s what we know about the Wiener Dog Derby coming to the Meadowlands in New Jersey.
The Running of the Wiener Dogs
The running of the wiener dogs will commence on June 6th, 2026. This is the 8th annual race at the Meadowlands Racetrack. Families are welcome to buy tickets to watch the cute races in the Backyard.
Ten wiener races are scheduled to begin at 5:45PM and run until 8:45PM. Each race will happen between live harness racing, where the horses race around the track. There is $1,700 in total prize money up for grabs. There will be up to 10 qualifiers, then the top dog in each qualifier will move on to the finals. The full schedule can be found online.
Registration has been maxed out for the hot dog races. Qualifier winners will get a $100 betting voucher and a dog goodie bag. First place in the final race wins a $500 betting voucher and a goodie bag.
The only dogs allowed in the track and in each race are dachshunds. All dogs must be currently licensed and up to date on all shots, including rabies vaccination.
Tickets and parking are free. No other dogs are allowed at this event, only the dogs participating in the races.
There will be plenty of food, fun, laughs, and both horse and dog racing. Last year, the event featured a live DJ, ice cream, cocktails, and food. Guests also had the option of picking up dog treats to bring home for their furry friends or to give to their wiener dogs after the races.
Follow @thenewjerseygirl_ on Instagram for all your New Jersey news and events.
