This Sunday, November 17th, it’s a must-do, and must see-and-be-seen-at, event: the Steeplechase of Charleston. Now in its fourth year, it has a heavyweight new owner and sponsor, The Post & Courier. Talk about a lot of horsepower! Steeplechase of Charleston has more than ably filled the void left by what was formerly known as the Charleston Cup. Plus, they have major plans to make it bigger and better than ever, tapping into the rich history of horse racing in the Lowcountry. After all, steeplechase racing in Charleston dates all the way back to the 1700’s. The event will take place at The Plantation at Stono Ferry Racetrack, 5000 Old York Course in Hollywood (South Carolina, not California). The rain should be all gone by then, replaced by lovely Carolina blue skies. Steeplechase of Charleston is part of the national circuit. In fact, it’s the last race of the 2019 season, with previous events in Aiken, Camden, Saratoga Springs and other east coast venues. Gates open at 9:30 a.m., with opening ceremonies and a paddock call kick off at noon. At 1:00 over 60 horses will begin racing in five races over four-foot tall jumps, races starting about every 20 minutes. There will be plenty of money at stake, along with the esteemed silver Alston Cup. They’ll have a big Vendor Village, Family Fun area for the kids, food, beverages, and some serious Lowcountry tailgating. There will also be best hat, best-dressed and best tailgating competitions.
Some great articles about the Steeplechase of Charleston
Seeing as the Post & Courier is now behind the event, they have some terrific coverage of the Steeplechase of Charleston.
- FAQs about the Steeplechase of Charleston
- New title at the Steeplechase of Charleston named for Revolutionary War officer
- Before the Kentucky Derby was created, Charleston was a pioneer in American horse racing
- Charleston fashion goes to the races with outrageous hats, bow ties and comfy shoes
There are several options for ticket purchasing, including tailgating, group and VIP options. Kids 12 and under don’t need a ticket. Part of the proceeds go to a great charity, the Post & Courier’s Good Cheer Fund. Here’s the official website with all the info, including online ticket purchasing. It’s quite a popular event, and this year they’re expecting several thousand folks.
Lights, Lights everywhere…
Also, a quick reminder that both the Holiday Festival of Lights and Lights of Magnolia officially kick off tonight for the season. Holiday Festival of Lights lasts through the end of 2019 while Lights of Magnolia (also known as the Charleston Chinese Lantern Festival) lasts through March 2020. So check out the new and improved Steeplechase of Charleston, destined to be a classic. And when you are looking for the most classic Charleston beach house, be sure to call EP. All best, Lowcountry Lisa your Isle of Palms vacation blogger