Derby Day Details
Event Schedule
| 2:30 p.m. |
Gates open. You must check in at the tent by the horse barn to receive your event wristband and drink tickets. Additional drink tickets are available for $5 in the pavilion and at the race track. Walk the red carpet brought to you by HomeTowne Realty, pose for a snapshot and get your keepsake photo courtesy of Brooks & Reid Events. |
| 3:00 p.m. |
Parade of the Hounds. The Red Mountain Hounds will lead attendees from the main pavilion to the race track, signaling the running of the live races. |
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Race Track opens. Track accessible by walking or shuttle. Don't forget to place your "best guess" for the winner of the four live horse races for your chance to win great prizes. "Best Guess" tickets are $5 each and are available at the betting tent. |
| 3:30 p.m. |
Live Horse Race #1 |
| 3:50 p.m. |
Live Horse Race #2 |
| 4:10 p.m. |
Live Horse Race #3 |
| 4:30 p.m. |
Live Horse Race #4 |
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5:15 p.m.*
*Time is approximate and subject to change.
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Main Program at the Pavilion featuring emcees Wes Hohenstein, CBS-17 Chief Meteorologist, and Melissa Overton of MedicalTraining.me
Derby Fashion Contest: Junior Jockey (ages 12 and under)
Celebratory Toast to UNC Health Johnston Physicians
Derby Fashion Contest: Derby Dapper (Best dressed gentleman)
Recognition of Derby Day Sponsors
Derby Fashion Contest: Too Hot to Trot (Best dressed lady)
Dream Vacation Raffle Drawing sponsored by Genesis Design Build
Derby Fashion Contest: Hat-a-Tude (Best hat)
Special Presentation
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| 6:10 p.m. |
Last call for Kentucky Derby "Best Guess" raffle entries. |
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6:45 p.m.*
*Time is approximate and subject to change.
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Kentucky Derby viewing Followed by the announcement of the Kentucky Derby "Best Guess" raffle winner. Tickets are $5 each and are available at the Kentucky Derby Betting Station in the Main Pavilion.
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Parking
Valet parking is available to general admission ticket holders for $10 per car.
Self-parking is complimentary and directional attendants will assist you upon your arrival. We encourage you to arrive when the gates open at 2:30 p.m. to avoid waiting in line.
Shuttles will be available to take attendees from the parking lot to the check-in tent and to/from the race track.
Fashion Contest Categories
- Junior Jockey: Ages 12 & under
- Derby Dapper: Best Dressed Gentleman
- Too Hot to Trot: Best Dressed Lady
- Hat-A-Tude: Best Hat
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?
This event is open to people of all ages. IDs are required for adults (21+) to receive tickets for alcoholic beverages.
Is this an indoor or outdoor event?
Derby Day is held outdoors and is a rain-or-shine event. The main stage and gathering area is within a large, shaded pavilion with tables and chairs. The race track is a secondary event location and is not sheltered.
What should I wear?
Anything that makes you feel like you're a part of Millionaire's Row at Churchill Downs. We typically see colorful sundresses, dapper linen suits and bowties, and beautiful hats. We suggest you wear comfortable shoes, as the venue is an operational equestrian center with varying terrain.
What's the refund policy?
The event is rain or shine. Your admission fee is a donation and is non-refundable.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
Please email jhfoundation@unchealth.unc.edu