The Longines Kentucky Oaks is a massive event in its own right: the distaff answer to the Kentucky Derby is always held the day before the run for the roses, and if you’re planning to go to Churchill Downs for Friday’s big race, we have ten things to know before you go.

1. Know the difference between the Oaks and the Derby, and why these races are special.

Both the Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks are elite stakes races for 3-year-old Thorougbreds, but there is a difference: while fillies (the name for female horses under the age of five) can run in the Kentucky Derby against the boys, the colts (unaltered male horses under the age of five) and geldings (the term for neutered male horses) cannot run in the Oaks. Whether the horses run in the Kentucky Derby or the Oaks, though, one thing is true for both races: they’re a once-in-a-lifetime chance. Because the Derby and the Oaks are both restricted to 3-year-olds, a new group (or “crop) of Thoroughbreds has to compete every year.

2. Know the contenders.

Friday’s runners got into the Kentucky Oaks by earning points in prep races, much like their male counterparts in the Kentucky Derby. While the field won’t be officially set until May 1, this year as many as 14 fillies will run for the lilies, including hopefuls who have run in Dubai, Toronto, Los Angeles, and Miami.

3. There’s an official cocktail just for the Kentucky Oaks.

Mint juleps not your thing? Then you need to try the Oaks Lily. A refreshing combination of Finlandia vodka, sweet and sour mix, Triple Sec, and cranberry juice, the Oaks Lily has rapidly become a fan favorite since its introduction in 2006.

4. Think pink ...

Churchill Downs will be covered in pink on Friday, and that’s because Oaks day is dedicated to finding a cure for breast and ovarian cancer. This year’s official charity is the Norton Cancer Institute, and the partnership will help lower cost of treatment for cancer patients.

5. When it comes to hats, go big or go home.

If you’re attending the Kentucky Oaks (or the Kentucky Derby, for that matter) then you’re going to want a major hat. It’s not only tradition, but it’s a ton of fun to put on a statement piece and send out a selfie on Instagram. This isn’t the time to be conservative: when it comes to Oaks hats, more is more!

6. You can still get tickets!

Want a great seat for the Longines Kentucky Oaks? Then you need to buy tickets! They’re available through the Kentucky Derby’s website, so get on that ASAP.

7. Now’s the time to bring your fashion “A” game.

Want to win an elegant luxury watch and show off your fabulous racing fashion? Walk the pink carpet in the Longines fashion contest from 2:15 - 3:15 p.m. on Oaks day, and the celebrity judges will pick winners at 3:30 p.m.

8. Take the time to explore.

While Oaks day is a very busy day at Churchill Downs, try to set aside a little time to explore the beautiful grounds. From the sculptures of Barbaro and Aristides to the Kentucky Derby Museum, there’s a lot to see under the Twin Spires!

9. Play a double!

Looking for a fun bet for the weekend? Play the Oaks-Derby Double! The bet is simple: pick the winner of both the Longines Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve, and then take your winnings home in a wheelbarrow. Don’t forget: you need to have this bet in before the beginning of the Kentucky Oaks, so hit the wagering windows early!

10. It’s worth it to make it a long weekend.

Why not make it a long weekend worth remembering? If you’re looking for the ultimate two days, get your friends together and start your weekend off early with the Kentucky Oaks on Friday, keep the party going with the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, and then make it a Sunday Funday with a Kentucky Derby Museum tour, then a leisurely journey home. Talk about the trip of a lifetime!