Epsom, England - Investec Derby Day at Epsom Downs Racecourse

The Queen in the Royal Box

The Queen's first appearance of the weekend on her Diamond Jubilee four-day schedule was the Investec Derby Day at Epsom Downs Racecourse. Everyone knows that the Queen is passionate about horse racing. Though she never gambles, the race horses she owns and breeds make enough money for her! She was looking very regal in royal blue and accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh and other various royal family members. Katherine Jenkins sang the National Anthem to a crowd of about 130,000 people. However, the best part of the day was when the sun came out to stay around 2pm. 

Katherine Jenkins prepares to sing the National Anthem

I watched the races from the Tattenham Straight Marquee, a hospitality tent overlooking the racecourse. We enjoyed a three course meal and then a wonderful tea time in the afternoon. Alcohol was included, so you can imagine that the classic British summer drink, Pimms, was flowing all afternoon! A Pimm's Cup, as it is known, mixes lemonade (or ginger ale/Sprite), fruit, cucumbers, mint, and a fortifying shot of Pimm's No. 1 gin. Why not make one for your next barbeque with the classic recipe.

Our hospitality tent: The Tattenham Straight Marquee

View from our hospitality tent

People even partied out of London double decker buses

Sweets at afternoon tea time: scones and chocolate eclairs

Baked lemon cream with raspberry and cornflower meringue
and strawberries in a white chocolate crown

The classic Victoria sponge cake: delicious! 

Since so many readers have asked to see what fashions I wear on all of my adventures, I have decided to add a "What I'm Wearing" photo from time to time. 

What I'm wearing: Dress Catherine Malandrino, Jacket Gucci, Bag and 
sunglasses Chanel, Shoes Valentino Garavani, Hat/Fascinator Nerida Fraiman