More than 40,000+ race fans are expected to attend what's defined as one of the most fabulous, fashionable and fun festivities in the west - Opening Day at Del Mar. This day is not only about big bets and fast horses, but celebrating the season in style. Fashion-minded guests may participate in Del Mar's annual tradition, the Opening Day Hats Contest where entrants compete for cash prizes and judged on creativity and style.

Looking for an exclusive Opening Day experience? Join The Party for a day of style, sun, live music and action at the seaside oval.

Opening Day Hats Contest

Explore your sense of hat creativity and you could win a share of more than $5,000 in total prizes. Strut your stuff between 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM in Plaza de Mexico located inside the Stretch Run admission gates.

Enter in one of the following five categories: Most Glamorous, Best Racing Theme, Funniest/Most Outrageous, Best Fascinator and Flowers/All Other. There is no fee to participate and all entrants will receive two free admission passes to return to the races.

Winners in each category receive cash prizes