Racing fans can watch and wager on Thoroughbred racing's 150th Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 4 from MGM Northfield Park. With contests, a food truck festival and bands, the northeast Ohio facility has plenty to offer.
The doors at Northfield Park will open at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, and the first race from Churchill Downs will be held at 10:30 a.m.
Those wanting to beat the rush on Saturday can take advantage of advanced Kentucky Derby wagering beginning Tuesday, April 30 at 12 noon and full-card advance wagering beginning on Thursday, May 2.
Wagering will be available on Saturday at both the racetrack and MGM Northfield Park racino. Guests can wager in the Bet MGM Sportsbook at 10 a.m. and the Neon Room beginning at 4 p.m.
Contests for patrons on track will begin early, with Triple Crown Race to the Riches drawings beginning at 10 a.m. Fans will receive an entry blank to deposit into a barrel for a chance to win a spot in the Race to the Riches game, Kentucky Derby prize packs, Ohio Lottery Instant Tickets and more.
Northfield Park's ever-popular hat contest, will also be featured on Saturday. Patrons can enter the contest any time from noon to 3:30 p.m. across from the center program stand. From 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., contestants will be judged in the winner's circle, with the winner being announced at 5 p.m. The hat contest features a $500 USD top prize, with $300 USD going to second place and $200 USD to third place.
A Kentucky Derby handicapping seminar will be played throughout the building at noon, with Michael Carter, Northfield Park announcer Kenny Livengood and Bob "Railbird" Roberts handicapping the entire race card.
Northfield Park will host its annual Kentucky Derby Food Truck Festival on the track apron. Seven of Northeast Ohio's top food trucks will be selling their specialties from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Food truck participants include Southern Thangs, Jackpot Chicken, Wrap It Up, Cookie's BBQ, Famous Eddie's Cheesesteaks & Grille, Summerfest Grille and Crooked Kettle Popcorn Co.
To accompany the tasty food, there will be plenty of beer specials throughout the building. Fans can get the popular Mint Julep on track for $6 USD in a regular cup or $10 USD in a commemorative Kentucky Derby glass.
Live music will also be available on the track apron, with Pop Avenue (1 p.m. to 3 p.m.) and Buckshot (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) performing.
For those looking to commemorate the afternoon, Kentucky Derby merchandise will be on sale on the track apron beginning at 2 p.m.
Most seating throughout the day is free on a first come, first serve basis, with Trackside Lounge and the new In And Out Concessions dining area sold out. Lady Luck's Clubhouse seating will open at 9:30 a.m. and will feature concessions, food and a bar from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Northfield Park will also play host to exciting harness racing on Saturday with a first post of 6 p.m.
(With files from Northfield Park)