BOSSIER CITY, La. — Louisiana Downs hosted a unique twist on its traditional Memorial Day horse racing schedule Monday, featuring a series of exotic animal races that drew families from across the region.

The holiday event paired standard thoroughbred races with a variety of exotic animal competitions held throughout the afternoon. Beyond the track, the festivities included food trucks, live music, and a free kids zone. Track officials said the event has become a popular holiday tradition, designed to attract new audiences and provide a festive environment for visitors of all ages to celebrate the holiday weekend.