By guest blogger Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor


On fast approach is the famed Opening Day event at the Del Mar Racetrack, which last year drew a record 45,309 people - socialites, celebrities and fashionistas anxious to dawn their most fabulous chapeau, wager on the horses, and otherwise see and be seen.

The seven-week horse racing season at Del Mar’s storied racetrack will kick off July 18, 2012 with the eagerly anticipated annual “One and Only Truly Fabulous Hat Contest,” which never disappoints. The contest is known for drawing incredibly artistic, inspired, whimsical, witty and some downright obnoxious headwear masterpieces that are rated on creativity, originality and style by the judging panel. In fact, last year’s hat contest amazingly attracted over 400 entries amid the giddy Opening Day crowd.

Hats aside, even horse racing newbies can enjoy the action like a pro as the Del Mar Racetrack hosts a Newcomer’s Seminar every day of the season one hour prior to each day’s first race. Instruction includes betting strategies, racing tips, money management, selections and more, with participants receiving free racing materials with attendance. Those who sign up for the track’s Diamond Club also receive special membership privileges, such as half-off admission for any day of the season. Joining is free, and the perks are well worth it.

The Del Mar racetrack is also family friendly! A family of four, with two kids under 18, can spend a full day cheering on the horses for less than $10. Every Sunday is Family Day at the races with entertainment for the kids in the Infield including pony rides and inflatable games.

If you’ll be traveling into San Diego for this revered perennial pastime and will be in need of accommodations, Luxury Link hotels such as the Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa will than fit the fabulous bill. This stylish retreat—listed on Condé Nast Traveler's coveted Gold List and Hot List— is reminiscent of an early California ranch estate and is a perfect complement to a day a the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. In fact, the property pays homage to its rich history by emulating and utilizing materials from the original 1880s equestrian compound.

Another great Luxury Link option in the La Jolla area is La Valencia Hotel, a AAA Four-Diamond property. For more San Diego-area hotels and resorts, click here.

In all, the Del Mar Racetrack continues to be an essential ingredient of the Southern California summer entertainment scene, and Opening Day, with all of the regalia of the hat contest, is a not-to-be-missed seasonal ritual.

Learn more online at http://www.dmtc.com.

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"The Luxe List" Executive Editor Merilee Kern scours the luxury marketplace for exemplarytravel experiences, extraordinary events, and notable products and services. Submissions are accepted at www.LuxeListReviews.com. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook.

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above were provided at no cost to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***