Kentucky Oaks

Depart Southgate, MI on a luxury Motorcoach. You will check into your hotel for two nights: Courtyard by Marriott, Lexington South - Hamburg Place You will enjoy dinner this evening at a local restaurant. Ladies: Shop for a stunning fascinator for your attire tomorrow - no extra charge! (D)

The Kentucky Oaks runs on Friday, the day before the Kentucky Derby. It, like the Derby, is one of the longest continually held sporting events in American history and it is filled with tradition. You are encouraged to wear the color pink - from hats to handkerchiefs, suits to sundresses, sunglasses to stilettos! This focus on pink honors the Oaks official flower, the stargazer lily, and celebrates Churchill Downs’ advocacy and fundraising efforts for women’s health issues. One of the most beloved traditions of this 15-year effort is the Survivors Parade - a march of breast and ovarian cancer survivors that takes place on the historic racetrack prior to the Race. This year there will be 150 deserving cancer survivors invited to walk. Your day at Churchill Downs begins with the first race at 10:30am a dozen races later The Oaks runs at 5:51pm. During the day at Churchill Downs, all Food & Beverage is included even the cocktail known as “The Oaks Lily,” featuring Vodka and Cranberry Juice. (B)

Most places can only tell you stories about legends, but at the Kentucky Horse Park, they may just trot right by you. This park is hands-on, so you can touch the horses, smell the hay and see first hand the majesty of the horse. This is a place for all of your senses! Lunch is included before beginning the journey back home. Share your photos and your memories with your friends. Arrive Southgate Early Evening. (B)