Colonial Downs to hold Virginia’s ‘Largest Kentucky Derby Party’

NEW KENT COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — Colonial Downs in New Kent County will be hosting what it calls Virginia’s “largest Kentucky Derby party” on Saturday.

All sorts of fun activities and entertainment will be going on at the racetrack — located at 1051 on Saturday, May 4, including the 150th “Run For the Roses.”

Additional activities include contests like Best Hat and Best Dressed and visits from two retired thoroughbreds, Lark and Tater, courtesy of Dreamcatchers Equine Therapy, according to a May 1 press release from Colonial Downs.

There will also be strolling performances from the River City Riffers — a student jazz band from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Music.

There are two options for those interested in enjoying the races. The Woodford Reserve Whiskey Bar, which opens at noon on Saturday, is free for guests. It overlooks the Secretariat Turf Course. All races, including the Kentucky Derby, will be simulcast there and wagers can be placed on-site.

The Jockey Club is $30 per table, with doors also opening at noon. This includes access to the Jockey Club’s buffet. Wagers can be placed live from the club. Space is limited and tickets can be purchased online ahead of time.

According to the release, wagering has been opened for the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, as well as Friday’s Kentucky Oaks. All of Saturday’s races will be open to wagering beginning on Friday.

“In addition to the festivities at Colonial Downs, each Rosie’s Gaming Emporium will broadcast and offer live betting on the Kentucky Derby and Saturday’s full slate of races,” the release reads. “Admission to Rosie’s Gaming Emporiums is free and open to those 21 and older.”

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