5 Steeplechase Horse Races You Need to Experience
1. The Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens
November 3, 2018
Pine Mountain, Georgia
Tickets: from $30; steeplechaseatcallaway.org
This 35-year-old tradition takes place on the first Saturday in November outside of Columbus, Georgia. The one-day race has grown to benefit five different arts organizations in and around Columbus, and over the years. The Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens has donated more than $4 million to the roster of causes. Read even more about it here, and pack your bags now.
2. Steeplechase of Charleston
November 11, 2018
Hollywood, South Carolina
Tickets: from $30; steeplechaseofcharleston.com
Self-described as “quintessentially Southern,” the Holy City tradition began in 1792. The day-long event features five races, with food trucks, live music, and plenty of the best Southern style. The Thursday before, they’ll host a gala at Hibernian Hall, from which 100 percent of proceeds will benefit Tri-County Cradle to Career.
3. Georgia Steeplechase
April 6, 2019
Rome, Georgia
Tickets: from $40; georgiasteeplechase.org
Referred to as “the best lawn party in Georgia,” this springtime race has been drawing crowds to Rome, Georgia, since 1966. Classic race-day entertainment (aside from the laps around the course!) include the terrier races, a hat parade and contest, and of course, lots of parties.
4. Maryland Hunt Cup
April 27, 2019
Reisterstown, Maryland
Tickets: from $40; marylandhuntcup.com
See the 129th running of “Maryland’s Timber Tradition” in Westminster, Maryland, on the last Saturday in April. Back in 1894, the members of the Elkridge Fox Hunting Club challenged the members of Green Spring Valley Hunt Club to a timber race in what became the very first Maryland Hunt Cup. Note: there are no concessions at this, so you’ll want to pack a picnic, just like the old days.
5. Iroquois Steeplechase
May 11, 2019
Nashville, Tennessee
Tickets: from $75; iroquoissteeplechase.org
Ring in Spring in Nashville with the Iroquois Steeplechase, which has been held annually since 1941. The day is packed with everything you want from a horse race—big hats, festive tailgates, and thunderous laps around the track. Check out our guide here for the full scoop.
