It’s tailgating at the next level. A picnic “Downton Abbey” style. Lady’s in hats, gentlemen in seer sucker bow ties , elaborate table settings and upscale dining. The Queens Cup Steeplechase is a signal to most Charlotteans that Spring has arrived. Â On Saturday April 27th the tailgaters converge upon Brooklandwood Racecourse for a day of food, fun and fast horses. 
The gates open at 10am. There are games, contests, pony rides and horse races  It’s an all day affair for the family or friends. Take your food, chairs and settle in. Gates close at 7pm. Here is a look at what I found at local stores for sophisticated tailgating:
Country French linen tablecloth $200.00, with antique candelabra $165.00 and vase of roses $225.00 all from BLACKLION DILWORTH.
I was so excited to find these folding bamboo chairs $199.00 for the pair at Post & Gray.Â
Orange folding stool $275.00. Perfectly compact and stylish seating from BD Jeffries
The girls and I at Post & Gray put together this cute table setting. Wood folding garden chairs $80.00 each, antique punch bowl with cups $275.00, cut fabric $7.00-$10.00 a yard. So may fabric choices to make your own table linens.
This vintage beverage server from BLACKLION DILWORTH is perfect for sweet tea.
Scoopcharlotte reader and WBTV anchor Molly Grantham, collects wine corks and makes these bulletin/chalk boards. Write out your menu, your name, the agenda or just well-wishes. Exclusively at BLACKLION DILWORTH.
Every tailgater needs a picnic basket or two. This pair from Post & Gray $69.00.
Rattan serving trays and dishes at BD Jeffries are perfect for any outdoor occasion. Prices range from $28.00-$195.00
If you need some menu ideas ” Home Made Summer” is filled with delicious recipes perfect for summer outings. $36.00 at BD Jeffries.
 A French stand and beverage bucket $39.00 at BLACKLION DILWORTH. Just add ice and your favorite beverages.
Antique reed and willow market basket $99.00 at Post & Gray
Why not personalize your paper products, plastic plates and glasses. I love this idea. If you don’t want to take the glassware, but want something more exciting than standard paper plates, here is your answer. A vendor at BLACKLION DILWORTH will help make your event special. Prices vary depending on product and personalization.
Linen napkins gussy up all occasions. BD Jeffries has a great selection of colors and styles $10.00 each.
Bamboo chip & dip tray $60.00 from BD Jeffries. I can’t serve a summer meal without breaking out the chips and dip.
My homage to Lilly Pulitzer”s colorful life. Set of wineglasses $27.95 at BLACKLION DILWORTH.
I had to stop in The Winestore to get suggestions for sophisticated wine. The Ferrari Carano is 100% chardonnay from Napa $36.00
If you prefer a red wine, the Snowden Cabernet from Napa at 35.99
Gather your friends and family and spend a day out of doors enjoying an upscale picnic and people watching. Oh yeah…and horse racing.
