There’s no denying Virginia City’s uniqueness here in Nevada. The town itself 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, then you’ll want to start planning a trip ASAP. Lucky for you, one of Virginia City’s most bizarre events is coming up and there’s no better time to visit! 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.
The 56th 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. The races will take place on September 7 through September 9 this year and you definitely don't want to miss out!
This is definitely a sight that you won't see anywhere else. 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 way, way back to the late 1950s. It all started when Virginia City's newspaper published a false news story about racing camels. 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! It was at this moment that the camel races were born and it's been considered a quirky but beloved tradition ever since.
Every year, jockeys climb up onto camels, ostriches, and even zebras and race them around the track in historic Virginia City. All the while, the sound of banjos, harmonicas, and raucous laughter are cheering them on.
Thousands of spectators turn out to get a glimpse of one of Nevada's strangest events. Admission to the races can be purchased online here. Tickets are purchased for individual races that take place over the weekend. Prices can vary depending on which day you are planning to attend.
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.
