Dressed to impress — Ladies Hat Day at the Races

Ladies Hat Day at the Races is a popular event at the Humboldt County Fair where there’s a competition with different “hategories” and the people’s choice winner gets $2,000.

Cindy Olsen, the Ladies Hat Day organizer, spoke to Redwood News about the event.

“Today is Ladies Hat Day and it’s the day everyone looks forward to,” Olsen said. “I always wanted to go to the Kentucky Derby. I’ve never got to do that. So what we did, we brought the Kentucky Derby to Ferndale and we started Ladies Hat Day 12 years ago, and everyone seems to love it. So we continued it on.”

The special day is a display of creativity and local charm.

“It’s such a community event,” Olsen said. “We have everybody here with different ideas. They spend months making their hats. It’s a real community effort.”

Kristi and Sherri Dortch, Ladies Hat Day group participants, explained the inspiration behind their sporty looks.

“I’m representing the Raiders,” Kristi Dortch said.

“Kansas City,” Sherri Dortch said. 

“And we’re rivals,” Kristi Dortch said. “We’re sisters, so football Sunday, Thursday, Monday night, we’re always at each other.”

The pair expressed their favorite parts of the event.

“I love crafty,” Kristi Dortch said. “I love getting all dressed up. Give me a reason to be fancy.”

“The art and the people,” Sherri Dortch said.

Alice Pitt, another participant, donned an eclectic hat.

“My hat is basically a show of kinetic bribes. So essentially, I’m a timer and a judge, well, they can’t really bribe for time. But essentially I’m easily bribed as what this would entail.”

Pitt also shared her plans.

“Enjoying the races. It’s a beautiful day in Humboldt. but for the glory. We’re going to try to win some money or at least watch some racing.”