Nothing brings people together like cars and this is the ultimate motorsports gathering, featuring a display of the world’s most exotic, classic and American muscle cars.
Start your engines and head to the World Equestrian Center Ocala for the Festivals of Speed celebration from April 30th through May 1st. Among the dream machines on view will be models from Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Porsche and many others. In fact, some 250+ exotic, classic and American muscle cars will be participating in this amazing event.
The state-of-the-art new facility will play host to this world-class show that highlights luxury, performance and innovative automotive design.
The show connects novice car enthusiasts with connoisseurs and outright gearheads. Even if you don’t know the difference between torque and turbocharged, you’ll revel in the beauty and wow-factor of these prestige cars.
Headquartered in Eustis, Festivals of Speed was founded in 2004 by Joe Sabatini as the ultimate luxury showcase for discerning enthusiasts with a passion for all forms of transportation and has grown to be known as the premier exhibitor in the industry through their shows at luxury resorts throughout Florida and Georgia.
Sabatini is proud to have the distinction of his car show being the first selected to take place at World Equestrian Center Ocala and is thrilled to have the exhibition occur over the weekend of the 147th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.
“It is super exciting to see this facility come to fruition. We have waited a long time for this and we are ready to have an exciting and festive event. The World Equestrian Center provides for the ultimate experience in equestrian luxury and now we have joined two great American passions, the equestrian sport and automobiles,” Sabatini asserts. “Add to that the ultimate horse race and you have a celebration that has never been seen before.”
The festivities kick off on Friday, April 30th, with an exclusive Derby-themed luxury lifestyle cocktail event from 7-10pm, with great food, fine cocktails from the open bar and festive entertainment. Tickets for the party can be purchased on the Festivals of Speed website, in addition to general admission and VIP tickets.
“The cars are the stars as we like to say,” Sabatini offers. “But the parties, music and, of course, the Kentucky Derby race itself, will give everyone all the action they can handle.”
The motorsports gathering will commence at 10am on Saturday, May 1st, at the exhibition ring on the Grand Plaza, directly in front of the hotel, and run until 4pm. Attendees will have a rare opportunity to appreciate automotive masterpieces of design and engineering in a setting that is both festive and elegant.
In addition to all the high-end exotic cars, American classics and American muscle cars that will be on display, Sabatini explains there will be horses competing throughout the property and that attendees can avail themselves of all the World Equestrian Center Ocala has to offer, including fine wines and refreshing cocktails, as well as exciting culinary offerings from the many noteworthy eateries, from Viola & Dot’s Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria, Filo’s Mexican Cantina and Ralph’s Burger & Sandwich Shop to Miss Tilly’s Lollipops, a unique candy shop boasting artisan treats and one-of-a-kind confections.
Guests may also tour the facility and dine al fresco as they enjoy live entertainment on the Grand Plaza during the evening.
Sabatini also suggests attendees take some time to explore the region during their visit.
“I love the scenic beauty of Ocala, as well as the peace and tranquility,” he shares. “The people, culture and beauty of the region are simply intoxicating.”
Tickets should be purchased in advance at www.festivalsofspeed.com to allow for social distancing.
General admission tickets may be purchased online for $20 per person (Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge.) Following your purchase, tickets will be emailed to you.
The Ultimate Kentucky Derby Party Luxury Lifestyle Reception on Friday evening will feature brand ambassadors offering boutique spirits, including rare bourbon, aged scotch and more. Culinary offerings include a variety of chef-attended stations. While enjoying the evening, guests can admire exotic cars, displays of fine timepieces, jewels, art and more.
VIP tickets on Saturday allow admittance to the exclusive VIP only section, which will feature a fine culinary display and festive cocktails. Each VIP guest will receive a VIP gift bag with an engraved whiskey glass.
For more information and tickets, visit festivalsofspeed.com
