An after-Christmas package: Santa Anita racetrack is opening its winter season in style

For more than eight decades, the racetrack at Santa Anita Park in Southern California has opened its winter season the day after Christmas -- and this year is no exception.

The Winter Meet, as it’s called, is set to kick off with live music, a Guest Chef series and, of course, thoroughbred racing.

The season at the track in Arcadia runs through April 10 and includes two $1-million races: the Santa Anita Handicap on March 12 and the Santa Anita Derby on April 9.

You can get into the park for as little as $5. There’s a Family Fun Zone with carnival games, pony rides and jumpers set up in the infield of the track on selected days. Admission to the Fun Zone is free with admission.

For $30, you can feel like a VIP with the American Pharoah Trackside Package. It comes with a T-shirt featuring the Triple Crown winner, admission to the Club House, a drink plus track-side and grandstand seating.

For $85, you can eat a meal in the Chandelier Room created by Chef Steven Fretz of the L.A. restaurant the Church Key. Mint julep otter pops anyone?

It’s part of the track’s Guest Chef Series that also includes live music (jazz great Mel Torme’s son, James Torme, will be performing with the Ryan Cross Trio), a glass of Champagne, a program and a tip sheet.

Info: Santa Anita Park