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If you are a true horse racing fan, then you’d know that horse racing isn’t only about the race itself. It is more about the experience, the fashion, the betting, and the excitement that all of this brings together.

So, clearly, you cannot turn up in a tracksuit on your next Derby Day, even for the Canterbury Park Races. There is no strict dress code for many of the most popular races around the world, including the Canterbury Park Races. But that doesn’t mean that you can wear anything you like.

The organizers of the races encourage guests to dress smart casual, which is often the vibe of most of the races nowadays. The race day is crazy, you are probably going to spend more time chatting with people and placing a bet, than watching the race itself. So, looking good matters.

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This means that if you don’t like people to point fingers at you for being over or under-dressed, you should take a look at this guide we prepared on what to wear for the Canterbury Park Races.

What To Wear?

Well, choosing your outfit for the races depends on the event you are planning to attend. Each horse racing event is different, so a good starting point is to open their official website and try to look for clues and outfit style suggestions.

Canterbury Park, out in Shakopee, Minnesota, which opened its gates in 1985, isn’t one of those ultra-formal racetracks, where you must turn up in a suit, a hat, or a ball gown. It is more of a laid-back Midwest charm, with no strict dress code on what’s approved and what’s not.

However, guests know that you cannot turn out in shorts, a Hawaiian shirt, and slippers.

The organizers of the race have said that their main goal is to set a vibe that everyone can enjoy, and not being comfortable with what you are wearing can ruin your mood. With that said, they also suggest smart casual, but there is a good chance that you’ll also be granted access if you turn up in your regular t-shirt.

But if you don’t like to look apart, try going for a smart casual outfit – for men simple trousers and a shirt with a blazer is a good choice. If you are a woman, you can go for a simple dress (not too extravagant), or casual trousers and a shirt.

Just make sure that it is not revealing, which is a big no-no in the world of horse racing events.

Keep It Neat and Practical

For the everyday race day—say, a Thursday evening or a sunny Saturday in the 2025 live racing season (running May to September)—general admission is your ticket in. Here, it’s all about “neat casual.”

Think of a clean pair of jeans or khakis, a polo or button-up shirt, and some decent shoes—sneakers are fine as long as they’re not beat-up or muddy.

For women, a sundress, a nice top with pants, or even a sharp blazer combo works great. The key is looking put-together without overdoing it.

Minnesota weather’s a factor too—March might still feel like winter, so layering with a jacket or scarf makes sense, while summer calls for breathable fabrics and maybe a hat for sun protection.

Special Events

Now, if you’re hitting a bigger event—like the Minnesota Derby or the opening weekend kickoff—things get a bit dressier, especially if you’ve snagged hospitality tickets or a spot in a premium area like the Clubhouse.

Think “smart casual” here: men might go for slacks and a collared shirt (tie optional), while women could opt for a chic dress, skirt, or tailored outfit. It’s not mandatory, but you’ll notice more folks dressing up—suits, sport coats, even the occasional fascinator—because these days feel like a celebration.

The Kentucky Derby watch party in May is a prime example; some fans go full-on Southern flair with bow ties and big hats, though it’s still optional.

Premium Areas

If you’re splurging on a private suite or dining package—like the Turf Club or a catered event space—expect a slight uptick in formality. Staff might not turn you away from jeans, but the crowd tends to lean toward business casual: think dress pants, a blazer, or a polished dress.

It’s less about rules and more about matching the ambiance—sipping a drink trackside with a view of the finish line just feels better when you’re dressed a little sharper. That said, Canterbury’s not policing your wardrobe; it’s about fitting in with the upscale vibe without needing a tux.

What’s Off-Limits?

There’s no official “banned” list posted, but common sense applies. Flip-flops, tank tops, ripped clothes, or anything you’d wear to mow the lawn? Probably not the move. Same goes for overly casual athletic wear—save the gym shorts and hoodies for the treadmill.

Fancy dress—say a goofy costume—might fly for a themed night (they’ve done Halloween races before), but check ahead; otherwise, it could raise eyebrows. And while sports jerseys are big in Minnesota, they’re not the norm at the track—racing’s its own thing, not a Vikings tailgate.

Weather and Comfort

Minnesota’s weather is no joke and Canterbury’s mostly an outdoor gig. March 2025 might mean chilly winds (highs in the 30s or 40s), so a stylish coat or sweater over your outfit keeps you warm without sacrificing looks.

Summer races—July or August—can hit the 80s, so lightweight fabrics, sunglasses, and a cap or wide-brimmed hat (bonus points for style) are clutch.

The grandstand’s got some cover, but if you’re trackside or in the infield, you’re at nature’s mercy. Comfortable shoes matter too—there’s walking involved, and heels might sink into grass if you’re roaming.

The goal is to look decent, and be comfortable, and to be honest, it is pretty easy to nail such an outfit, and you don’t have to be a fashion guru to look good.