by Jennifer Starr, for The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono

Wilkes-Barre, PA — A doubleheader of live harness racing, a hat contest and food trucks are all part of the biggest Kentucky Derby party north of Churchill Downs on the first Saturday in May at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono.

Doors open Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and the first 200 fans at 10 a.m. will receive a $10 live racing voucher for the early card, with a post time of 11 a.m., and a tremendous card featuring the Pennsylvania All-Stars for 3-year-old trotters and pacers.

Pacer’s Clubhouse will host a champagne brunch like no other starting at 11 a.m., featuring delectable items such as seared tenderloin medallions with crab cake; Ritz Cracker crumb-crusted haddock over white and wild rice; vanilla bourbon sweet mashed potatoes; and desserts such as chocolate pecan pie and minted cream pie. Reservations are still being accepted at 570.831.2100. The dinner seating is currently sold out.

Curtis Salonick photo

Last year’s Run for the Roses Hat Revue was a huge success.

Ladies can proudly wear their elaborately decorated Kentucky Derby hats for the Run for the Roses Hat Revue, sponsored by Spa Sapphire, the salon and spa in the casino. All hats must be registered between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. in the lobby, and the Revue takes place at 5:30 p.m. in front of the winner’s circle, with $1,000 cash for the top prize. Cash will be awarded to the runner-up and third, with Spa Sapphire gift cards for prizes 4-10.

A photo booth in the lobby will be open at 3 p.m. to capture the best moments of the day, with a $1 suggested donation to the Standardbred Retirement Foundation. Spa Sapphire will also be set up to help the ladies look their best with the “Perfect Lip” touch-up, adjacent to the photo booth.

Make sure you come with an appetite, because there will be food trucks on the apron, with What The Fork, Big Belly’s BBQ, Doc Popcorn and Johnny Rockets serving food all afternoon and evening.

Of course, mint juleps will be available all day in the official Kentucky Derby 141 souvenir glasses. Viva cigar bar will be on hand with a wide assortment of top cigars for the gentlemen and there will be a huge tent across the apron with TVs.

Following Kentucky Derby 141 on the jumbo screen, fans can stay and enjoy another exciting live card, and the bars and food trucks will remain open all evening.

Dress to impress and enjoy the biggest Kentucky Derby party north of Kentucky this Saturday.

Advance wagering will be available Friday starting at 10 a.m., as well as a full simulcast of the prestigious Kentucky Oaks day from Churchill Downs.