Jersey Shore Things to do for the Kentucky Derby

Partly sunny with isolated showers possible in the afternoon. High near 72°F with south winds 10-15 mph, gusting to 25 mph. Small Craft Advisory in effect until 7:00 AM Sunday. Evening temperatures around 60°F. Perfect weather for Kentucky Derby celebrations, but boaters should exercise caution with the Small Craft Advisory due to south winds 15-20 knots with gusts up to 30 knots and seas 4-6 ft.

🏇 KENTUCKY DERBY SPECIAL: LOCAL CELEBRATIONS

DERBY DAY HAS ARRIVED! The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby takes place today at Churchill Downs, with post time set for 6:57 PM. This annual celebration known as "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports" is a beloved American tradition.

Where to Watch in Our Area:

• Elaine's Kentucky Derby Outdoor Party - Join the fun on The Lawn at 513 Washington Street in Cape May! Wear your best Derby hat and attire for a chance to win prizes, with proceeds benefiting the Animal Outreach Center of Cape May County.

• Atlantic City Watch Parties - Several venues across Atlantic City are hosting Derby Day events, including watch parties at 201 South New York Ave. Expect mint juleps, Derby-themed contests, and excitement!

Derby Favorites:

This year's Kentucky Derby favorite is Journalism at 3-1 odds, who drew the favorable No. 8 post position. The Bob Baffert-trained horse has won four consecutive starts and is coming in hot. Other top contenders include:

• Sovereignty (5-1) - Drawing post position #18

• Sandman (6-1) - A strong closer from the Arkansas Derby

• Burnham Square (12-1) - Will be ridden by Brian Hernandez Jr.

Several experts are recommending caution on Sandman despite his impressive win at the Arkansas Derby, as his trainer Mark Casse is 0-for-10 at the Kentucky Derby and jockey Jose Ortiz is 0-for-9 in Derby races.

📅 TODAY'S LOCAL EVENTS

• Cape May Lighthouse Climb - Open today! Climb the 199 steps up the original, cast iron spiral stairway for breathtaking views of the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean.

• Willow Creek Winery - Live music and a cozy fire from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Perfect setting to enjoy Kentucky Derby festivities with wine and friends.

• Yard Sale at Crest Community Church - 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Pacific & Crocus Streets, Wildwood Crest. Rain or shine!

• Harpoons on the Bay - Enjoy music and sunset views from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at 91 Beach Drive, North Cape May.

• The Harriet Tubman Museum - Guided tours at the top of each hour today at 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and in the afternoon at 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM.

🍽️ DINING SPOTLIGHT: DERBY DAY SPECIALS

Several restaurants in Cape May and Atlantic County are hosting Kentucky Derby-themed menus today. Don't miss these culinary highlights:

• Peter Shields Inn - Known for excellent service in a beautiful setting, they're featuring a special Derby Day menu including their highly-recommended Lobster Bisque, which many claim is "the best in Cape May."

• The Blue Pig Tavern - Located in the venerable Congress Hall Hotel, the Blue Pig serves casual American cuisine in a light-filled rustic dining room with patio seating. Derby Day specials available!

• Lucky Bones Backwater Grille - A 150-seat restaurant known for brick-oven pizzas, Buffalo wings, and seafood. Created by the Craig family, owners of the nearby Washington Inn and Cape May Winery, it offers high-quality, reasonably priced, family-friendly dining.

• Beach Plum Farm - Discover the old and open spaces of this 62-acre working farm in West Cape May. The farm supplies produce to several local restaurants and offers a unique dining experience.

• The Mad Batter - Famous for their breakfast, especially pancakes, French toast and mimosas - perfect for a pre-Derby Day brunch!

🏖️ BEACH & OUTDOOR UPDATE

Beach season is approaching! Here are some outdoor activities to enjoy today:

• Cape May County Zoo - Open daily, year-round, and free to visitors (donations accepted). A perfect family activity before the Derby!

• Cape May Whale & Dolphin Cruise - Captain Jeff and his crew will take you into the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean to spot marine wildlife.

• Higbee Beach - A wonderful spot for a morning walk before Derby festivities begin.

• Cape May Point State Park - Enjoy nature trails and wildlife viewing.