Derby Infield: The Real Party

The Kentucky Derby's infield offers a contrasting experience to the glamorous main event. General admission tickets start at $136, significantly less than the premium seats that can cost thousands. Regulars like Louis Grant, who has attended for decades, prefer the mingling environment. 'That's not what made the Kentucky Derby,' he said. 'This is what made it. This infield environment with all the local people and the visitors who come here and mingle.' afnews.co.za

Attendees appreciate the closeness to the action. Debbie Allen, attending her first Derby, said, 'I almost prefer this, because you feel so much closer to it.' The infield tradition spans generations, with families like the Reiders who started there decades ago and have returned. 'It's the circle of life,' said Susan Reider.