Minnesota’s Kentucky Derby Party is Under an Hour From Owatonna
To really soak in the tradition and pageantry that is the Kentucky Derby, you have to head to Churchill Downs, near Louisville, right? Wrong.
The Kentucky Derby is one of those spring rituals, a classic horse race that dates all the way back to 1875. And it's back again in May this year, after having been held in September last year, thanks to the pandemic. It's a day when people head down to Kentucky, dress up, drink Mint Juleps and have a big 'ol party. Which we all could use after this past year, right?
But you don't have to head to Kentucky to celebrate the Derby, though. You can get your Run for the Roses on right here in Minnesota. That's because Canterbury Park, located just under an hour from Owatonna in Shakopee, is hosting a Kentucky Derby party as well.
Now, here's the thing: While Canterbury Park IS hosting a viewing party for the Derby on Saturday (May 1), thanks to the pandemic, crowds are still limited and tickets to the party are already sold out. But, you can still SEE the race at Minnesota's premiere horse track. Canterbury Park says their ticket office will offer walk-up wagering from 8 am Saturday through the start of the Kentucky Derby, which is set for 5:57 pm.
My wife and I love watching the ponies run at Canterbury Park. We usually try to head up there once a year (though, thanks to the pandemic, we missed last year.) And while we only bet a couple of dollars, it's still pretty fun to see if your horse wins. (I think the most I won one year was $35-- which at least paid for my beer while I was there.)
Now, if you're into wagering, you could possibly win a LOT of money betting on the Kentucky Derby. It might even put you on this list of Minnesota celebrities-- who all have a lot of money! Keep scrolling to see who they are-- and how much they're worth!
Listen to Curt St. John mornings from 6 to 10 on Quick Country 96.5
and afternoons from 2 to 6 on 103.9 The Doc
The Net Worth of 10 Minnesota Born Celebs
More From KRFO-FM
