There are few more popular sporting events to attend in the United States than the Kentucky Derby.
That will be no different in 2024, as the opening leg of the Triple Crown celebrates its 150th anniversary. Record-breaking numbers are set to visit Churchill Downs across the opening week in May this year, creating one of the most significant cultural events on the social calendar in North America.
However, preparations for a day at the racing have already got underway for the majority of fans that will be going to Churchill Downs this year, as they have already started to make a list of things that must be taken to ensure the most enjoyable day.
So, what are some of the important things that all visitors to Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby must remember to pack this year? Check this Kentucky Derby 2024 betting guide by TwinSpires.com to prepare in advance.
Best Outfit
While the Kentucky Derby is all about crowning the best three-year-old in the United States this season, it is also one of the most desired social events on the calendar. Therefore, fashion is high on the agenda when it comes to the preparations that all visitors will be keeping in mind.
The vast majority of visitors will be wearing their best suits and dresses to the track, ensuring that they look the part. It is also encouraged that all visitors pack their best hat, with the more flamboyant the better for most fans.
However, while fashion is undeniably important for visitors, it is also important to ensure that you’re comfy. Therefore, a lot of female visitors should also pack an extra pair of flats or flip-flops to ensure that they have a change in footwear should heels be hurting your feet throughout the day.
Have Weather Precautions
The weather in Kentucky across the opening weekend in May can often be tricky to predict, meaning that it can often be testing to know what to bring. Therefore, all visitors should be prepared for all conditions if they are attending the Kentucky Derby. Sun cream is one of the most important things to remember, as it could be extremely warm if the sun is out.
It is important to ensure that you are wearing sun protection, as there is no avoiding the conditions if the sun is beaming down throughout the day. Contrastingly, all visitors should also be prepared for rainy conditions should the heavens open. Ponchos are a preferred option among many, while umbrellas are a sound option to ensure that you can remain as fashionable as possible.
Dressing for the conditions is encouraged for all visitors, meaning you shouldn’t overlook packing a sweater or jumper if the conditions look set to be cooler. The worse possible thing for a racegoer is realising that they aren’t prepared for the conditions, as this could have a negative impact on your experience at the Kentucky Derby.
Remember Food & Drink
Visiting Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby means a long day at the horse racing, and while the vast majority of visitors will be looking to unwind with a couple of cold beers and cocktails, it is always encouraged that visitors have supplies to ensure that they are well-hydrated and fed.
The track enables all visitors to bring in bottled water, but it must be in a clear sealed bottle. Visitors are also limited to two 24-ounce bottles per person. As well as hydration, all visitors will want to ensure that they are fed for a day at the racing.
Visitors are able to bring in boxed lunches, but the dimensions shouldn’t exceed 12 inches by six inches. All visitors are also limited to one lunch bag per person. This entry requirement could differ depending on where your tickets are located, as those that have paid for hospitality options will not be able to bring in any food from outside the racecourse.
Key Items
Seasoned Racegoers to Churchill Downs will be well aware of some of the more interesting key items that should be on your person when attending the Derby. Among those include charging packs to ensure that your phone doesn’t die during the day.
This is especially important for those that are looking to take pictures throughout the day. It is also a must for fans that are looking to make wagers on their mobile device while at Churchill Downs. You may not have any way of checking your bets on your phone if it dies, and it wouldn’t be an ideal situation if you forget a charging pack and you haven’t yet made your selections for the big race of the day.
As well as charging packs, experienced visitors to the track will also take binoculars with them to the racing to ensure that they can watch all the action on track, regardless of how far in the distance the runners are away. However, this isn’t the most important item to remember, as there is no shortage of television setups around the track to watch the live action.
Print Off Tickets
It goes without saying, but all visitors that are heading to the Kentucky Derby must ensure that they have printed off their tickets to gain access to Churchill Downs. Tickets can be shown via a print off of the email that is sent after purchase, while they can also be downloaded directly onto your phone and saved into your wallet.
Having both options will be a preferred choice among many, as this will ensure that you’re still able to gain access if your power loses charge or your forget the printed off copy of the ticket in the hotel room.
Getting into the track via the turnstiles is easy for all visitors, with help on hand should you need extra attention. The staff at Churchill Downs are experienced when it comes to dealing with all requests, meaning that if you’re stuck getting access to the track, then they will be on hand to deal with any issues that you may have.