In an attempt to provide a real, useful guide to fun events for people who love to seek out a great party, I give you my Guide to the Foxfield Races (which are coming up 4/29):
What is it?
The Foxfield Races, or simply “Foxfield”, is a steeplechase horse racing event that takes place every April (and once again in the fall) in Charlottesville, VA. It is a “tailgating” event, meaning that it is more a social event than a horse race, per se. There is no offical betting, to my knowledge, and the horses are not truly a focus on the day. In reality, Foxfield is a bunch of people who go to a field to eat and drink all day and have a grand old time.
How is this different than the Triple Crown Races? (Derby, Preakness, Belmont)?
Foxfield is more of a true “Tailgate”. You drive into Foxfield and park in a pre-reserved “plot” where you set up shop for the day. Plots must be reserved in advance. Unlike the Triple Crown, there are very few people focused on the races, as most people are just there to hang out.
What can/can’t I bring?
You may bring chairs, tables, food, beer/wine/liquor, boomboxes, coolers, tables and tents. You cannot bring grills, kegs, or dogs. No Glass is allowed, but not really — you can bring glass bottles, but you have to pour them into a plastic cup right away. If you are seen drinking from glass, it will be confiscated.
What should I wear?
The traditional attire is “southern preppy”, i.e. lots of bright pink and orange polo buttondowns, blazers and khakis, with sundresses and hats for the women, but in reality you can wear whatever you want in most areas. I suggest shorts and a t-shirt if it’s nice out. The weather is very unpredictable, so you might want to bring both a cool and warm outfit. Don’t forget raingear if that is predicted, and sunscreen and shade if it’s going to be hot. Since you’re arriving in a car, there is no excuse to show up unprepared. Don’t forget the right footwear!
What is the drinking policy?
Beer, wine and liquor are all ok. Everyone who is over 21 is supposed to have a wristband. I, however, did not get one last year. There are cops who walk around to enforce the wristband rule, but as the place is pretty big and crowded this can be difficult. Not that I would condone this, but you could probably get away with drinking as an underager if you are careful. I was asked for wristband/ID twice last year, but I was just sitting in a chair drinking both times.
What is the deal with the colored areas?
The orange area is for UVa students, and as such is where the hardcore party is located. If you are not a student and are looking for a fun spot, try the green area, also on the infield. It is more refined than the student section, but still a great time.
What else should I know?
Get there early (around 10), or be prepared to wait in line for entry.
That’s it for now, I’ll update next year with anything new I find out.