Oaklawn to open infield for Rebel Stakes weekend

Racing fans are expected to pack into Oaklawn this weekend for the final local prep for the Arkansas Derby.

The Grade 2 $1.25 million Rebel Stakes always draws plenty of fans, but with beautiful weather forecast for this weekend, the racetrack plans to open the infield for all races Saturday and Sunday.

"This is a huge weekend for Oaklawn," Sophie Fleischner, Oaklawn social media content developer, said. "It is Rebel weekend. The Rebel is Saturday, and we are opening the infield for it, but we will also open the infield on Sunday."

While many tend to think a day at Oaklawn is only for those over 18 or 21, Fleischner said there are plenty of family-friendly options, and that is especially true on the infield.

"We have magicians, bouncy houses, face painters, a rock climbing wall, food trucks, I mean everything you can think of," she said. "It's the perfect place to watch the races. You can place your bets from the infield. It's going to be a great day, and we're excited to open it this early because in the past the weather hasn't permitted us to."

Doors open at 10:30 a.m. with first post set for noon, and DJ Kramer will provide live music throughout Saturday's races.

"We do have a DJ this weekend," Fleischner said. "He starts in the infield at 12. He'll play throughout the race card -- live music, live racing, food, good weather, hopefully. And I think that that makes the whole experience for people. I know I want to come out here, especially when it's good weather."