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Churchill Downs has drawn record crowds in recent years. Getty

There are few American sporting events with as much tradition and fanfare like the Kentucky Derby. From the lavish hats to the mint juleps to the many parties, there's plenty to experience at horse racing's most prominent event.

This year's race will take place on Saturday, May 6, with "the most exciting two minutes in sports," starting a little after 6:30 p.m. ET, though the festivities extend well beyond just one race. There are numerous events leading up to the race at Churchill Downs in Louisville, ranging from a steamboat race to a beerfest to even a marathon.

But for many visitors, the best part of the Kentucky Derby is the race itself and taking part in the 26-acre infield, with its estimated capacity of 70,000.

Churchill Downs has expanded after both the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks set attendance records the past two years with 170,513 in 2015 and 167,227 in 2016. Churchill Downs added 2,200 covered seats in the infield that cost over $1,000 per ticket, according to WDRB, a Fox affiliate in Louisville.

General admission ticket prices range by the purchase date. Between Nov. 17 and Dec. 31, 2016, the least expensive tickets started at $60. By Derby Day, the general admission price will be $80. Churchill Downs allows a maximum of 12 general admission tickets per household. Walk-up general admission tickets have steadily increased in recent years. A ticket was $50 in 2012 and $40 in 2011.

Meanwhile, high-end tickets are still available for Derby Day. There are seats still available in Millionaire's Row at $5,775 on StubHub.

A ticket in the Mansion Section, which opened in 2013, runs for $15,070. However, the 10,000-square-foot section that seats about 320 is only available by invitation.