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The following content is created in partnership with the Breeders' Cup. It does not reflect the work or opinions of the NBC Los Angeles editorial staff. To learn more about the Breeders' Cup, visit the event's website

Even more than just a two-day, 14-race sporting affair, those who come to the Breeders’ Cup will also experience a cultural event. Fancy cocktails, high fashion, celebrity eye-candy, and haute cuisine will take center stage Nov. 1 and Nov. 2 at the annual championships (tickets are still available). Those who drop in at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia—or those who just want to get into the spirit of it—can indulge in:

The Looks: While horses run the track below, the dapper set walks the runway up in the stands. Indeed, like any high-profile race event, the Breeders’ Cup lures more than its share of fascinators and fedoras. For anyone looking to get their vogue on, the dress code for women includes splashy hats (full brim, medium size, or taller crown—it’s all good), and colorful dresses and shoes; men best wear a necktie or bowtie and a blazer with a pocket square, all topped off with a hat.

Party in the Stands

The Sips: The Kentucky Derby may be known as the race of the mint julep, but the Breeders’ Cup has its own signature drinks. This year, two new Official Cocktails were announced: “Torrie Cup” and “Garland,” each named for an emblematic element of the Breeders’ Cup (and both created in conjunction with New York’s '21' Club). The ingredients for these new libations include bourbon, lemonade, vodka, and honey-green tea. See the recipes here.

The Eats: Not all Breeders’ Cup revelry takes place on race days. Invited guests (primarily owners, breeders, and trainers) get to graze the evening before at the 9th annual A Taste of the World, an international culinary event. Held at the Warner Bros. Studio, guests get to sample the work of renown chefs from 15 countries, including Sylvain Delpique of New York’s '21' Club, Ed Cooney, of the Merrion Hotel Dublin, and Anthony Lamas of Seviche, Louisville. Cuisine will be paired with cocktails, fine wines, and a selection of beers. A sneak peek at a couple of menu items: Burgundy Escargot, made with Vadouvan butter, tomato marmalade, crème fraîche polenta, and naan bread; Beef Tartare, made with shiso, jicama, cucumber, mustard caviar, dill, and za’atar; and Kobe Sliders, made with truffle Cheese and purple sweet potato chips.

The Famous: Secretariat…Seabiscuit…Zenyatta… racehorses can be quite the superstars. But the Breeders’ Cup attracts human celebrities too—especially this year, with Santa Anita Park being a horseshoe toss from Hollywood. Look for famous faces in the stands and boxes: Past attendees have included Bobby Flay, Elizabeth Banks, Kate Upton, Emily Ratajkowski, Walker Buehler, Susan Sarandon, and Carson Kressley.

The Clubhouse: Race fans who want a more elite experience may opt for a spot in the Clubhouse. Packages available include box seating, on-site trip directors, open bar, gourmet food, and an appearance by legendary jockey Laffit Pincay Jr.

The Rest: Racing fans in town for Breeders’ Cup need not head home as soon as the last horse crosses the finish line. This being Los Angeles, there’s plenty to do before and after the race. For instance: It’s Halloween weekend, so on October 31, visitors can check out the Haunted Beach House in Santa Monica or The W Hollywood Rooftop Halloween Masquerade Party. (Consider dressing up as someone who’s attending the Breeders’ Cup!) 

The Breeders’ Cup attracts top thoroughbreds and visitors alike. Learn more about the races at BreedersCup.com.

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