Arlington Park calendar
After opening weekend's bets are spent, Arlington Park keeps race-watchers' attention with these big events:
May 24: Lonnie Brooks
It's been a while since the Louisiana "swamp rock" and blues icon joined Jimmy Reed's touring band, but Lonnie Brooks' Chicago blues roots remain intact and well oiled. He performs a concert on the Miller Lite stage after the final race.
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June 21-22: Prairie State Art Fair
All of the participating artists in this juried competition must create a horse- or racing-themed piece as part of their bid to win $10,000 in prize money. Immerse yourself in a little culture while rooting on your pony during the weekend's Prairie State Festival of Racing.
July 3: Fireworks
One of the biggest fireworks displays in the suburbs, Arlington Park's patriotic sparklers start after the day's last race.
July 12: Million Preview Day
Test out your Arlington Million hats, ladies. The last set of qualifying races starts today.
July 18: The Redwalls
Deerfield's own rock quartet pays tribute to home base with a special post-race concert. Reports say the band is writing new material; stay tuned for new songs during this set.
July 20: Fiesta in the Park
More than 12,000 people showed up for last year's Reflejos fiesta, dedicated to the best in Latino food, drinks and music. Park reps say they expect 3,000 more than that, so get there early.
August 2-3: Rock 'n' Roll Art Show
Art from the likes of Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, U2, John Lennon and a ton of other musicians will be on display all weekend. If you're a classic-rock fan or Beatles collector, you'll definitely want to stop by.
Aug. 9: Arlington Million
Arlington Park's derby equivalent features the top-notch, million-dollar race that has called Arlington home since its inception in 1981. Be sure to pay homage to Bill Shoemaker, the long-shot jockey who won it all that first year.
Sept. 6: Ladies Day
Get those hats out of the closet, because today is the day to show them off. It's ladies day on and off the track, Arlington officials say, as female patrons receive an afternoon of spa goodies and giveaways, not to mention special cocktail considerations while Filly horses take the course.