Beer Time Is Back, Tho At Reduced Capacity
Beshear is limiting attendance to 50% to 60% of its infield capacity, which means approximately 15,000 people spread over the 22-acre area. Overall the Derby brings in crowds of about 160,000 people, with the record being 170,513 in 2015.
Derby Day 2021 is Saturday, May 1, putting it back on its traditional “first Saturday in May” date.
Beshear is encouraging everyone who goes to the Derby to be fully vaccinated. Additionally, Churchill Downs is requiring people to wear masks when they’re not eating or drinking. Visitors will also have to social distance and there will be capacity limits.
The infield ticket prices are $75 & $80 for advance purchase and $85 on Derby Day.
In an overall party guide article on PubClub.com, the infield is described as “absolute chaos.” Part of the tradition is a mud pit, people were shirts proclaiming “You Can’t Drink All Day If You Don’t Start In The Morning” and live out that slogan, and never see a horse on the track, except on the giant video board.
Exactly how wild this year’s party gets remains to be seen. With half capacity it certainly won’t be the same as in past years. But with people being locked up and denied going to bars, festivals and concerts, the infield won’t exactly be an alcohol-free zone, either.
The PubClubettes, by the way, will be sitting out this one. Perhaps they will return next year.
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