If you’re planning a trip to beautiful Santa Anita Park, located just outside of Los Angeles in Arcadia, Calif., you’re going to want to know these ten things before you go. After all, it’s an action-packed weekend, and we don’t want you to miss a minute!

1. The racing is incredible.

Saturday’s racing at Santa Anita Park is filled with Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In” action: the Awesome Again Stakes earns its winner a berth in the Breeders’ Cup Classic, the American Pharoah Stakes is a “Win and You’re In” for the Sentient Jet Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, the Rodeo Drive Stakes sends its victor to the Maker’s Mark Filly and Mare Turf, and the Chandelier Stakes gives the winner a spot in the Tito’s Handmade Vodka Juvenile Fillies.

2. There’s big money waiting for you.

Want to win a cool $1 million? Then you want to bet Santa Anita on Saturday. With a Rainbow Pick Six jackpot in the six digits, you can win the whole pot if you’re the only one to correctly select the winners of six races. It’s a tricky bet, but a win here is life-changing!

3. Oktoberfest is here!

Grab your dirndl or your lederhosen and head to Oktoberfest at Santa Anita on Saturday – for $35, you can enjoy a selection of beer and cider tastings, get clubhouse admission, a program, a free $5 bet, and a whole lot more! Plus, you’ll have the perfect view of the race to the finish line, so it’s pretty much the perfect way to spend a Saturday.

4. Meet some of racing’s biggest names.

Ever wanted to meet some of racing’s biggest personalities? Here’s your chance! Santa Anita is having an autograph signing on Saturday morning from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., and you’re invited.  Racing luminaries like Eddie Delahoussaye, Mike Smith, Gary Stevens, Kent Desormeaux, Laffit Pincay Jr., Alex Solis, Julie Krone, Don Pierce, and Ron McAnally are all expected, and you get a free poster for them to sign. Even better, the event benefits the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, so you can give as well as receive on Saturday.

5. Show off your skills in the handicapping contest.

Are you confident in your handicapping skills? Then it’s time to enter the Breeders’ Cup Betting Challenge. This is a live contest that has a $179 entry fee and a 1-per-65 qualifying ratio with one BCBC seat guaranteed.

6. You can have breakfast with the stars.

What’s the best way to spend a morning? At Clocker’s Corner, nestled at the top of the stretch at Santa Anita Park. Enjoy a delectable breakfast and watch horses train, then chat with the trainers, owners, and jockeys as they mingle all morning. It’s a little slice of heaven, and it’s open to everyone.

7. You can get in touch with nature.

The Los Angeles Arboretum is right across the street from Santa Anita Park, so it’s a great place to go in the morning to take a break and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. 

8. Bring the family.

If you have kids, you should bring them to the track on Saturday. (I know, it sounds weird, but stick with me here.) That’s because Santa Anita has Family Fun Day each weekend. With games, pony rides, bouncy houses, and more, your little ones a guaranteed a great time!

9. Dine at the Derby.

Looking for the perfect spot for a post-race dinner? Head to the Derby just down the street from the track – not only will you enjoy a great meal, but you’re probably going to see some owners, trainers, and jockeys while you’re there.

10. Know that the fun is just getting started.

Santa Anita’s fall meet is just getting started – opening day is Sept. 28 – so this weekend is just the start of the fun at “The Great Race Place.” Be sure to check the Santa Anita website often to keep up with all of the action and start planning your next trip to the track.