Rite of Spring: An Exclusive Look into the 84th Annual Iroquois Steeplechase in Nashville, Tennessee
The 2025 Iroquois Steeplechase took place on May 10th, 2025 at Percy Warner Park in Nashville, Tennessee. Attended by thousands, the 84th annual event was a lively celebration of the steeplechase sport, Nashville culture, and springtime in the South. Each year, the world class horse race, known as Nashville’s Rite of Spring, benefits Monroe Caroll Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt and other local non-profits. The event simultaneously promotes the legacy of steeplechase racing, a sport that has been around since the 18th century. Steeplechase races require horses and their riders to run between 2.5 and 4 miles, jumping over obstacles such as fences, ditches, and water jumps throughout the course.
Despite the unpredictability of May in Tennessee, this year’s steeplechase event had fantastic weather; temperatures remained fairly cool—upper 60s to lower 70s—with overcast skies. The pleasant, gray day was punctuated by pastel colors, floral hats, and the sound of trumpets and bells, announcing the arrival of the horses and their jockeys for each race. Alongside fan-favorite traditions and new additions to the grounds, the 2025 event expanded its raceday schedule, adding an exciting 7th race to its typical line-up.
Each year on the 2nd Saturday in May, gates open at 8 a.m. for tailgating attendees. Party tents open at 11 a.m. The opening ceremony commences around noon, and the event goes until the last race is finished, at approximately 5:30 p.m. All tents close 15 minutes after the final race is over, with an after party for guests of the Royal 615 lounge ending at 7:30 p.m.
Photo courtesy of Iroquois Steeplechase
Iroquois Steeplechase: An Impactful History
Nashville’s Iroquois Steeplechase gets its name from the beloved “Iroquois,” the first American-bred horse to win the English Derby. Iroquois retired to the Harding Farm, Belle Meade Plantation, where he stayed as a stud until his death in 1899. An impressive number of his descendants have been Kentucky Derby winners.
A group of fox hunters were the first to break ground on Nashville’s permanent steeplechase course. They chose the valley at Percy Warner Park for its terrain, the biggest appeal being the hills surrounding the course, which offer a perfect view for spectators. The course, designed by William DuPont Jr., broke ground in 1938 and was completed in time for the inaugural race, which was held in 1941. The first winner of the Iroquois Steeplechase was a horse named Rockmayne. The governing body for the race has been the nonprofit, 501c3 organization Volunteer State Horsemen’s Association (now Foundation) since the very beginning.
The prestigious race regularly attracts over 25,000 spectators each year, with a record-breaking number of over 30,000 attendees in 2024 and 2025. Since 1981, Iroqouis Steeplechase has been one of the primary fundraising events for Monroe Caroll Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, in that time raising over $11 million for the hospital and its patients. Other causes championed by the event include the continued preservation of Warner Parks and The Foundation for the Horses, an equine-veterinarian organization dedicated to the health and welfare of the animals. Iroquois Steeplechase also supports the National Steeplechase Association, securing a bright future for the sport.
Horses that run in steeplechase races are called “chasers” and are usually older and experienced in hurdle racing, which helps the animal learn proper jumping technique. The 2024 race was a historic moment in its own, as horse “Snap Decision” of Bruton Street-US, who is considered to be one of the greatest American chasers in history, became only the 2nd horse to win the Calvin Houghland Iroquois (1 of the 7 races participated in on race day) for the 3rd time. In 2025, Snap Decision came in 2nd, beat by “Abaan” of Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners.
Off to the Races: An Approximate Raceday Schedule
Race day begins with the opening ceremony, which includes the National anthem—performed this year by country artist Walker Montgomery—and the traditional Parade of the Hounds, which consists of a group of foxhounds accompanied by huntsmen on horses, paraded in front of the grandstands. Around 1 in the afternoon, the main event begins, and the races commence in order:
Race 1: The Bright Hour Rating Handicap Hurdle, 1 p.m.
Stick Pony Races: In between the 1st and 2nd races of the day, kids can participate in the annual stick pony races on the track, 1:15 p.m.
Race 2: George Sloan & John Sloan, Sr. Sport of Kings Maiden Hurdle, 1:40 p.m.
Race 3: Louis Brown McMillan Memorial Sport of Kings Maiden Hurdle, 2:20 p.m. (newest race)
Race 4: Green Pastures Memorial Sport of Kings Novice Hurdle Stakes, 3 p.m.
Race 5: Calvin Houghland Iroquois (Grade 1) Sport of Kings Hurdle Stakes, 3:40 p.m.
Race 6: Margaret Currey Henley Sport of Kings Filly & Mare Hurdle Stakes, 4:20 p.m.
Race 7: Mason Houghland Memorial Timber, 5 p.m.
An incredible amount of work goes into each race—the culminated effort of the jockeys, horses, trainers, owners, and sponsors. Percy Warner Park is widely known to be a well done course, and Iroquois Steeplechase draws equestrians from all over the world. You can check out the 2025 race results here.
An important note: Betting isn’t legal in the state of Tennessee; there are no bets on the horse races at Iroquois Steeplechase.
Spectator Contests
The horses aren’t the only one’s competing at Iroquois Steeplechase. Race Day spectator contests present friendly competition in fashion and tailgating, giving guests a chance to put their best foot forward for their day at the races.
Some spectator trends this year in the realm of style included shades of pink, pastel yellow, wide-brimmed hats, cowboy boots, and looks that gave classic derby outfits a slightly Western twist. People of all ages showed up in colorful, sometimes outrageous outfits, with timeless silhouettes and elaborate details. Stepping onto the grounds at Percy Warner Park during steeplechase, you could be stepping into any decade. For tailgating spaces, appropriately-horse themed streamers, balloons, and paper garlands made for festive decorations, alongside equestrian themed toys for the kids. Florals were everywhere to be seen, decorating table settings, sundresses, and brims of hats, alongside bundles of white carnations given out by event staff.
Whether or not you were able to make it out to the races this year, you can rep the special event all year round, with Iroquois Steeplechase merchandise available for purchase through their website.
What to Know for 2026
If you weren’t able to make this year’s event, here’s what to know in preparation for next year’s Iroquois Steeplechase in Nashville, Tennessee:
Ticket Options
There are a range of ticket options at Iroquois Steeplechase, from general admission to exclusive, premium experiences in specific areas on the steeplechase grounds. Depending on what you want your day to look like, below are the options and purchase information.
Premium Tickets
Royal 615: VIP tickets in the exclusive Royal 615 tent cost $3,432 for 6 guests, plus 1 sober driver ticket. This package reserves 6 lounge seats in the VIP area. For VIP tent access (sans private lounge area) for groups of 4, the cost is $1,320. Tent amenities include an exclusive, private cash bar, additional security, light refreshments, premium restrooms, a parking pass in lot M, a front-row view of the racetrack, easy access to food trucks, DJ entertainment, an invitation to a pre-event party at Thistle & Rye at Conrad Nashville, and an after-party from 5-7 pm. Individual tent access is $197.60 per person, if purchased before race day. Race day individual tickets to the Royal 615 club are $250 per person.
Hunt Club: Adult tickets for the premium hillside experience, with a prime viewing location, cost $343.20 per person. Children 12 and under are $140.40. A reserved table for 10 costs $3,432. Catering and a full service bar are included with this purchase. Ticket purchase guarantees a seat in the tent, access to the royal restrooms, and 1 parking pass for every 2 tickets purchased.
Exclusive Boxes: Box Seat options at the races are in high demand, and include 8-12 tickets, 2 parking passes, chairs for guests, race programs, access to premium restrooms, a finish line view, and access to purchase beverages at the Tavern on the Turf. You can also enhance your box seat experience with exclusive hospitality packages: Iroquois Society, Paddock Club, and Turf Club Lunch. Due to the popular option to renew boxed seats each year, these tickets are first-come-first-serve and commonly sell out quickly.
The Iroquois Society package is $520 for adult tickets, and $130 for kids 12 and under. Box holders have full service bar access and dining, tent seating, and a fantastic view. Paddock Club tickets are $338 for adults, $130 for kids 12 and under. This includes a full service bar, buffet dining, and a view from the highest point on the grounds. The Turf Club is located near the boxes. This experience costs $52, and includes a cash bar and a high-end boxed lunch to take back to your seat.
Private Hospitality Tents:The Hillside Tent package includes a tent, tables, chairs, fencing, linens, and race programs for groups of 50 ($11,440) or 80 ($15,444). Catering and bartending services are not provided, though suggestions are available. This tent has a finish line view. The Railside Tent package includes a tent, tables, chairs, fencing, linens, and race programs and catering purchase options for groups of 30 ($4,160), 65 ($8,944), or 100 ($13,754). Additional armbands are available for purchase within the tents.
General Admission
Individual Tickets: Individual, general admission tickets to watch the races cost $78, including service fees. This allows for access to Steeplechase Central Area, Tailgating Areas, and the Iroquois Shoppes. You also have the option to purchase food truck service or to bring your own food.
Tailgating Areas: Infield tailgating spots (topside, centerfield, midfield) cost $405.60, a price that includes all service fees. Reserved with the spot are 4 individual tickets and 1 sober driver ticket. The centerfield tends to be where college-aged groups tailgate; other areas are more family-friendly. Stirrup Club Tailgating, costs $780 including service fees. This includes 8 individual tickets and 1 sober driver ticket. RV Tailgating costs $780 and also includes 8 individual tickets and 1 sober driver ticket. Family Area Tailgating costs $780, including 8 individual tickets and 1 sober driver ticket. Kids 12 and under get free admission in all general admission/ tailgating areas. You can add a Tailgating Equipment package (limited quantity), which includes a tent, table, and chairs, for $364. If necessary, there are options to transfer your spot to another person or renew your spot from the previous year, as long as you do so by January.
What to Wear
If there was ever a time to show up in your (Saturday) best in Nashville, it’s Iroquois Steeplechase. One of Middle Tennessee’s most stylish events of the year, Steeplechase is as widely known for its fashion as it is for horse racing. Although there are an abundance of styles at the race, the Rite of Spring style is defined by light fabrics, classic silhouettes, and hats. Ladies are typically encouraged to wear flowy dresses in linen or cotton fabrics, often in colorful, springtime colors, and to pair their look with statement hats—wide brim or fascinators—as is tradition. Practical shoes are also important in order to easily navigate the grounds. Men are encouraged to dress in smart casual attire, often in spring colors. Sport jackets, breathable dress clothes, and loafers are the norm.
The official milliner, or hat designer, of Iroquois Steeplechase is Christine A. Moore, a New York based designer who is known as one of the most celebrated milliners in the history of American horse racing. Alongside her work at Iroquois Steeplechase, Moore has also been a featured milliner at the Kentucky Derby since 2018.
“I came from the theater world,” shared Moore, “so when I was introduced to horse racing it was familiar to me. It’s all about theatrical fashion.”
What to Bring, What to Leave at Home
Given the range of early spring weather here in Middle Tennessee, spectators are encouraged to plan for rain or shine, with a pair of rain boots should the fields be muddy. Likewise, sunscreen and sunglasses are a must, alongside hats and bottled water.
If you’re tailgating, you are allowed to bring a 10×10 tent, a table, chairs, and food if necessary. Those tailgating or in boxed seating are allowed to bring their own alcohol; however, glass containers are not allowed and outside alcohol is not permitted in designated areas: Royal 615 Club, Hunt Club, Iroquois Society, Paddock Club, or the family tailgating area. Keep in mind, also, that drones and pets are not allowed to tag along for race day.
Vendors & Food
There are 3 vendor areas at the event: at Steeplechase Central, Hillside Shoppes, and in a new area between the Topside and Midfield sections on the grounds. Among vendor tents stocked with jewelry, accessories, and more, there is also an official Iroquois Steeplechase merchandise store where you can find clothing, hats, and posters to commemorate the special day.
If you opt not to bring your own food, there are a variety of food trucks to choose from during the event. Some well-recognized dining options in 2025 included Mojo’s Tacos, Elliston Place Soda Shop, The Wok Bros, Mikey’s Pizza, Nashbowls Açai, Music City Brisket, and Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ.
Parking Information
For entry into the event, parking passes must be pre-purchased, printed, and visible through the windshield of the parked car when approaching the gate. Parking options include premium parking, Lot M, Lot S, Lot T, and valet. Once you get to the grounds, lots are well-marked and attendants will point you in the right direction. For those who don’t want to worry about parking, there is a new ride share designated drop-off location near the event.
This year, the Iroquois Steeplechase introduced a free designated driver ticket for each tailgate spot, at no extra charge, to promote the safe transportation of guests. As an additional safety precaution, guests who drive to the event are allowed to leave their parked car on the grounds until noon on Sunday, if necessary.
A Nashville Tradition for Generations to Come
Iroquois Steeplechase is a truly special Tennessee tradition many look forward to every year. Above all else, Nashville’s Rite of Spring is a good time for a good cause, celebrating the spirit of the steeplechase sport while helping those in need. One of the most prestigious steeplechase races in the United States, the premier springtime event gathers thousands, from locals to spectators from all over the globe.
“I’m from Kentucky and love horses, so this is the next best thing to the derby,” said one impeccably dressed guest, who has been attending Iroquois Steeplechase for over 30 years.
Throughout the day, the grounds are filled with music and cheering, from the grand stands to the tailgating sections. College students gather in the centerfield area to play corn hole and cup pong under University-repping tents. Kids play on the hillside in their Sunday best. Ladies in extravagant hats fill the grand stands. The silver and gold trophies shimmer on the race track, ready to be claimed by the year’s top athletes.
When asked what it’s really all about, Nashville local and veterinarian Caroline Smith put it simply: “It’s the tradition. It’s the history. It’s the horses.” Iroquois Steeplechase is a paramount event in Smith’s life. She came to the races as a kid, volunteered as a young adult, and worked as a veterinarian for the event for years. Smith also shared the generations worth of joy brought by Iroquois Steeplechase. Now a mom, she delights in bringing her kids and their friends along to the races, sharing with them a timeless tradition that has greatly impacted her life.
Another year in the books, Iroquois Steeplechase lives on as one of Nashville’s biggest events of the year, appealing to generations of fans and equestrian enthusiasts. We hope you got a chance to celebrate its legacy this year. If not, we hope you plan on attending in spring of 2026 to celebrate the 85th anniversary!
More Photos from the 2025 Event:
