Last Updated on 02/08/24 by Rose Palmer
Horse drawn carriages driven by men wearing top hats; women wearing big floppy hats; antique cars; horses and hounds – it could be a set on Downton Abbey. But it’s the present day at Winterthur Museum and Gardens in Wilmington, Delaware.
It’s the first Sunday in May and it was the annual Point to Point horse racing event which is the big annual fundraiser for the museum. Unlike the flat horse racing at the Kentucky Derby, which is also on the first Sunday of May, this steeplechase combines both racing and jumping over barriers for the horse and rider.
Point to Point Delaware Horse Racing is an annual Winterthur Tradition
Fancy hats, a tailgating competition that brings out the linens, crystal, and champagne, along with a parade and exhibit of restored antique Rolls Royce and Bentley cars are all part of the pre-race entertainment. Posh togs are de rigueur.
If you forgot your hat, you could buy one at the on site Marketplace – both his and hers are available.
Tailgating in style with the beautiful antique cars is one of the day’s highlights.
The racing events were kicked off by a parade of horse and hounds followed by antique horse carriages.
At 2 o’clock, the firsts of the four steeplechase races began as the horses raced around a skewed 3 1/4 mile figure eight track two times, giving spectators plenty of opportunity to cheer on their pick for a winner as they zoom past.
Despite an unusually cold and sometimes rainy day, a good time was had by all.
Travel tips for attending the Point to Point racing at Winterthur:
- The Winterthur Point-to-Point race is the first of three annual steeplechase races in the beautiful Brandywine Valley, all benefiting local organizations. The second Sunday in May is the Willowdale steeplechase in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, and the third weekend in May sees the Radnor Hunt races in Radnor, PA.
- There are limited, designated tailgate parking spaces that need to be be booked early.
- Each tailgate spot can hold up to 20 guests which makes this a great event for family and friends to celebrate together.
- Like football events, tailgating here is as much about the party as it is about the racing.
- People like to dress up and decorate their tailgate area, often following a theme, and taking part in a judged competition.
- Admission tickets without a tailgate parking spot are also available. Bring a blanket or folding chair and a picnic to enjoy the posh spectacle.
- All tickets must be purchased ahead of the event.
- The event happened rain or shine (as I found out), so check the weather forecast and come prepared with sunscreen or umbrellas as needed.
- Early May is also the best time to catch the azalea woods in full bloom at Winterthur, one of my favorite times of year in these gardens.
For up to date information on the Winterthur Point-to -Point races please visit http://www.winterthur.org/ptp
Other posts of interest:
Other fun events in the Brandywine Valley: Mushrooms, Muskets, and Funnel Cakes – A Festival Weekend in the Brandywine Valley
A fun weekend in Hershey, PA: A Sweet Girl’s Weekend Getaway in Hershey, PA
Halloween fun in the Brandywine Valley: It’s the Great Pumpkin Carve Charlie Brown
Thanks for visiting.
Rose
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