Break out the Mint Juleps and over-the-top hats because we’re off to the races for one of Music City’s oldest and most cherished traditions, the Iroquois Steeplechase.
Returning to Percy Warner Park on Saturday, May 13, the beloved annual sporting and social event attracts thousands of spectators every year in celebration of time-honored traditions, Tennessee hospitality, and Southern fashions. But the Iroquois Steeplechase is more than just a fun-filled experience; the full day of racing benefits Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in addition to other local nonprofit organizations. Since being selected as a primary beneficiary in 1981, over $11 million has been donated in support of Monroe Carell. Along with raising funds for incredibly worthy causes, the event strives to be an inclusive experience for fans and competitors from all walks of life to come together in celebration of the Nashville community.
Featuring some of the best horses and riders in the world, ample excitement and entertainment, and life-long memories waiting to be made, you can bet on the Iroquois Steeplechase being a celebration to remember. And in honor of our city’s most treasured rite of spring tradition, we’ve rounded up seven things to know in preparation for the 82nd annual race. (iroquoissteeplechase.org)
1. AND THEY’RE OFF!
The 2023 Iroquois Steeplechase sponsored by the Bank of America will be held on Saturday, May 13 when approximately 25,000 people will descend on Percy Warner Park for a fun day of racing, parties, community, and some of the season’s best fashion trends. It’s all for a good cause benefiting the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt and is truly Nashville’s rite of spring.
2. GETTING THERE
Ride-sharing is encouraged, and special parking and maps can be found on the event’s website so drivers can select the fastest route to the race. Avoid using apps like Waze or Google Maps as some two-way streets may be one-way on race day. Be sure to use the driving directions on your ticket to ensure you enter at the right gate. Don’t wait! Make sure to arrive early before the traffic becomes congested. Tailgaters need to be in place by 10 a.m.
3. TICKETS ARE DIGITAL
Whether you’re parking, tailgating, or going to the Hunt Club, tickets are digital for your convenience. Print your parking pass at home and display it on your dashboard to keep the entry running smoothly and quickly. (Note: Boxholders are not digital).
4. WHAT TO WEAR
Iroquois Steeplechase is Nashville’s rite of spring and the optimum time to show off your latest trends, bright colors, and amazing hats or fascinators. Dress for the weather so if it’s hot you’ll want to wear light colors. Men tend to wear pastel colors, button-down shirts, and khakis. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses are encouraged for all.
5. ROYAL 615 LOUNGE
The Royal 615 Lounge presented by Conrad Nashville and hosted by FOMO Entertainment and Tri Star Production is Iroquois Steeplechase’s hottest ticket. Nashville Lifestyles is a proud sponsor of this exclusive lounge with eight DJs, bars featuring craft cocktails, food trucks, premium restrooms, and a front-row seat to the fast- paced races throughout the afternoon. Make the exclusive lounge even more exclusive by purchasing a VIP or lounge ticket for the ultimate experience with a group of friends. Be sure to come early and enjoy the Roze Pony Bubble Bar, which will be open from 9 to 11 a.m.
6. BYOB OR DON’T
You can leave your cooler at home and enjoy the Taverns on the Turf, which are full- service bars sponsored by Lipman Brothers, so guests can purchase alcoholic beverages instead of bringing their own. Attendees may bring their own beverages if desired, but glass containers are not allowed. And be sure to enjoy delicious food trucks including Elliston Place Soda Shop, Brown’s Diner, Chick- Fil-A, as well as many others.
7. WHAT NOT TO BRING
No glass, pets, propane grills, fireworks, pyrotechnics, firearms, or amplified music allowed.