When it comes to sports, few experiences can rival actually attending a live event. But there's something about a viewing party done right that can bring the excitement and energy into your very own living room. With the Breeders’ Cup World Championships less than a month away, sports fans should be prepared to properly celebrate the occasion. This year, Del Mar hosts the iconic event with 14 races that showcase the best Thoroughbreds in competition on Nov. 5 and 6. To help get you ready, we've put together some ideas and essentials for hosting a Breeder's Cup viewing party.

Decorations

Purple and gold are the event’s colors. Incorporate them into your tablescape or with popular balloon arches. Purple and yellow mums also beautifully tie the theme and fall together, and this horse racing string banner would also be a great accent.

Attire

If the party is casual, men can make a splash wearing a button-up from the exclusive Old Smoke/Breeders’ Cup/Jonathan Kinchen collaboration.

If the dress leans toward horse racing glamor, consider the work of Christine A. Moore, the official milliner of the Breeders’ Cup.

Playlist

If you create a playlist, make sure to include “The Best is Yet to Come,” the Breeders’ Cup theme, and “Where the Turf Meets the Surf,” Bing Crosby’s ode to Del Mar.

Here are some other tunes to consider.

Menu

The Breeders’ Cup features two official cocktails: the Torrie Cup, featuring bourbon, and the Garland, a vodka drink. Serve them in this drinkware. 14 Hands and Dark Horse are great choices for wine lovers.

Burgoo, a longtime staple associated with horse racing, is a delicious stew perfect for an autumn gathering. Or add some local flare with carne asada fries, which originated near the host track in San Diego.

Breeders’ Cup paper plates are available and currently on sale.

Give Guests a Rooting Interest

Friendly contests add a rooting interest to the day of racing. Have a $10 draw for the Classic. Put the name of each contender on a slip of paper, and party attendees can draw a name out of a hat blindly for $10. Based on a 14-horse field, here is a suggested payout for this pool:

Win: $70

Place: $40

Show: $30

Saturday features nine championship races. Consider offering a prize or conducting another contest for the person who is able to pick the most horses who finish in the top three.