Thoroughbred Racing Returns To Suffolk Downs

Thoroughbred horse racing is returning to New England.

Suffolk Downs, the region's last remaining thoroughbred track, announced Monday it will hold three special "festival" race days: Sept. 5, Oct. 3 and Oct. 31.

The races feature the return of steeplechase competitions, which have not been offered at the Boston track since 1997.

Promoters are hoping to attract top-tier talent from across the East Coast with prize money exceeding half a million dollars. The race days will also feature food trucks, craft beer vendors, live music and other activities.

State gambling regulators earlier this month approved the race dates.

Track owners declined to seek a full season license after Mohegan Sun lost its bid to build a resort on the property. It now hopes to redevelop the land for other uses.