Winterthur is a hot spot in Wilmington, Delaware for hosting outdoor events which allows visitors to explore its gardens and fields. More recently, they hosted the annual event Point-to-Point on May 5. The event included horse races, catered food, drinks and other activities. Drawing inspiration from the Kentucky Derby, event attendees dressed up in ornate clothing, some even adorning festive hats.
The event is typically celebrated on a sunny day with warm weather. Attendees tailgate and take pictures with their friends and family. However, this year’s Point-to-Point was met with a downpour of rain and freezing temperatures.
Despite the weather, many showed up to enjoy the day’s festivities. Marie Soja, a Delaware resident, experienced her first Point-to-Point in the rain.
“It will definitely be a more memorable day,” Soja said. “We are all huddled up in this tent, I think it will be a lot more fun.”
The event lasted from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the crowd only seemed to grow as the hours went by. Daytime events consisted of dog races, games for all ages, vendor tents and horse races.
Point-to-Point is a part of the National Steeplechase Association, an organization dedicated to horse racing across the country. There were four different races throughout the day beginning at 12:45 p.m.
The occasion also included a fundraising event that raised money for environmental and landscaping stewardship initiatives. Proceeds from the event go to maintaining the woodlands, meadows and wetland habitats around Winterthur Garden.
Many guests showed up in extravagant hats and clothing, ready to take on the day. Rain or shine, guests were dedicated to making Point-to-Point as normal as possible.
Soja wasn’t the only first-time attendee braving the rain. Maddy McQuiston traveled from New Jersey to take on her first Point-to-Point in the treacherous weather.
“We’ll brave it though and make the best day of the situation,” McQuiston said. “I’m excited to experience this, it’s my first time and I don’t know what to expect.”
As the horses began racing, many attendees lined up to watch. Cheers could be heard as the race commenced. Families enjoyed food together, shielded by the safety of a tent over their heads.
Delaware native Jan Castro experienced his third Point-to-Point and believed the rain made it all the more special, a sentiment shared amongst other eager event-goers.
“Growing up in Delaware, you hear a lot about Point-to-Point,” Castro said. “We were able to set up a tent and we will have fun.”
While the rain was not ideal, attendees still came together to enjoy the day and have fun. Some guests such as Soja considered the day to be even more memorable.
“My coworker said all sunny Point-to-Points blended together, but he never forgot a rainy Point-to-Point,” Soja said.