Royal Ascot

King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive at Royal Ascot, June 20, 2023

The history of Royal Ascot dates back over 300 years to the time of Queen Anne (1665-1714). Ascot Racecourse was founded in 1711 by Queen Anne. The annual race meeting, which occurs each June at the Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, England, remains a mix of pomp, tradition, fashion, and sport. It has been described as a mix of a royal wedding and the Kentucky Derby, except boozier.

Royal Ascot is a major event in the British social calendar and press coverage of the attendees and their attire often exceeds coverage of the actual racing. While fashion and attendees is a large part of Royal Ascot it is also the most valuable race meet in Britain.

Every year Royal Ascot was attended by the late Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the British Royal Family. Since 1825 the first highlight of every day is the arrival of the Royal procession at 2pm. Four horse-drawn carriages carry the royals along the seven furlong straight mile first past the Windsor Enclosure then the Queen Anne Enclosure and Royal Enclosure before traveling under the grandstand to the Parade Ring. This year, upon the King's arrival, there will be the raising of the King's Royal Standard and the days racing can commence.

Ascot Racecourse

The pre-gaming in the parking lot is even fancier than tailgating at an Old Miss football game. Bollinger champagne, Pimm's cocktails, thousands of cups of tea, and copious pints of Guinness beer fuels the crowd, Lobster rolls and finger sandwiches replace typical tailgating foods. It is definitely an elegant affair that I would love to attend!

Lobster is de rigueur

Champagne is the beverage of choice

Ladies and Gentlemen are dressed in their finest to attend this event