Festivities celebrating the Breeders’ Cup World Championships at Churchill Downs will start early this year. Tickets are now on sale for a week-long fan experience organized by Equestricon, highlighted by its second annual racing convention, festival and trade show on Monday, October 29, and Tuesday, October 30.
Coinciding with the launch of tickets today, Equestricon has released this preliminary schedule of events for the convention.
Equestricon 2018 will be held at the newly-renovated Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) in Louisville. Fans will have unprecedented access to racing’s stars there, with expected appearances from the sport’s top jockeys, trainers, owners and farms.
With a basic $10 Trade Show Only Pass, attendees will be able to enjoy interactive exhibits and directly connect with more than 100 racing organizations and products in a one-of-a-kind trade show.
Premium tickets to Equestricon start at the low price of $65 and offer wide-ranging access to the full convention program, which is now browsable at equestricon.com. Convention-goers holding a $65 Two-Day All-Access Convention Pass can expect dozens of panels, workshops, seminars and discussions on topics highlighting horses, handicapping, photography, ownership, breeding, aftercare and more.
Anyone who purchases a Two-Day Pass or ticket of greater value by May 7 will also gain access to an exclusive pre-sale to buy Breeders’ Cup tickets.
“We’re thrilled Equestricon is kicking off the Breeders’ Cup Festival week for fans and guests of the World Championships,” Breeders' Cup President and Chief Executive Officer Craig Fravel said. “The inaugural Equestricon in Saratoga was so well received by fans, horseplayers, and industry members, we’re sure Equestricon 2018 will be a can’t-miss opportunity for anyone with an interest in racing.”
Equestricon organizers have also announced a series of off-site events and experiences, including select farm tours (tickets not yet available), a millinery workshop, and racetrack hospitality with guest handicappers at Churchill Downs.
Following the convention on Tuesday, October 30, Equestricon will host its “EQConcert” and VIP reception at the Mercury Ballroom in Downtown Louisville.