The Kentucky Derby is the Super Bowl for horse racing fans and several businesses are putting their spin on this weekend's event. And the festivities around the famous 2-minute race go far beyond just Canterbury Park and Running Aces.
At Trillium Woods, a senior living community in Plymouth, thoroughbreds are replaced with hobby horses.
"Residents and staff combined, one being a jockey and one being the trainer," Linda Stanton Director of Sales and Marketing says. "I'm a jockey and my horse is named Forget Me Not."
They walk through a grid and compete in four heats of four.
"There's a big inflatable die that the trainers throw," Stanton adds. "Whatever number that lands on is how many steps forward we get. And then the winner of each heat has the final runoff. Also, when people come in to see the Derby, they get a couple of tickets and then they can bet on which team they think will win."
The winning horse - um, person - will receive a trophy, a rose wreath, and chocolates.
Derby kicks off another season at Canterbury Park in Shakopee
Fans can watch, wager, and celebrate alongside fellow racing fans while enjoying the race on Saturday.
Canterbury has indoor and outdoor party spaces, they'll be whipping up those classic Maker’s Mark Mint Juleps, with rose arrangements throughout the venue, selfie stations, contests, and vendor experiences.
Besides watching the race, fans are encouraged to don their best Derby attire. Think big hats and bow ties.
More information on that event available here.
Running Aces in Blaine also host Derby party
Another spot to watch and wager on the Derby, this time in the north metro, takes place at Running Aces.
They'll be featuring live music, photo-ops with horses on the track, multiple food trucks, a Derby hat contest, kids coloring contests and more.
Running Aces is also offering up a stay and play option for those looking to spend the night.
More information is available here.
