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Apr 26, 2024 · Everything you need to host the ultimate Kentucky Derby party including drinks, appetizers, games, decorations, and more!
- Kentucky Derby Party Entertainment
- Kentucky Derby Party Decor
- Derby Day Party Games and Activities
- Official Kentucky Derby Food Ideas
- Kentucky Derby Party Drink Ideas
- More Kentucky Derby Party Ideas
Bartender
Photo: V&V Bartending The Mint Julep is the official drink of the derby, but why make it yourself? Bartending and mixology is a precise science that tastes much better being served by a professional bartender. Browse and book local bartenders to mix up this traditional cocktail for partygoers to sip on during the race. Find a Bartender
Bluegrass Band
Photo: Brooklyn Bluegrass Collective Immerse yourself in derby culture with the musical stylings of a high-energy bluegrass band. This genre consists of the banjo, guitar, fiddle, and bass, providing an upbeat, fast paced sound. Ask to see if the band can play a special rendition of “My Old Kentucky Home,” the official song of the race. Find a Bluegrass Band
Party Bus
Photo: Allstars Worldwide Limousine If you’re traveling to your local racecourse, what better way to get there than by renting a party bus? Safely transport guests to and from the venue, so everyone will be able to safely enjoy a glass of bourbon or two. Find a Party Bus
Run for the Roses
Photo: Perry Correll/shutterstock.com The winner of this race receives hundreds of roses, that’s why it’s nicknamed “Run for the Roses.” Easily incorporate this flower into your decor by adding rose accents throughout your space. This can include centerpieces, flower walls, even mixed with balloons. Book a floristto arrange gorgeous floral arrangements that will enhance this party theme even more.
Rich Strike Tribute
Photo: Milleflore Images/shutterstock.com This American thoroughbred racehorse was the winner of the 2022 Kentucky Derby. Pay tribute to this trusty steed by incorporating chestnut horses in your decor. Think balloons, backdrops, and even horse cocktail stirrersavailable on Etsy.
Gold and Silver Accents
Photo: Zoom Team/shutterstock.com The owner of the winning horse receives a gold trophy, while the trainer, jockey, and breeder take home a silver trophy. Incorporate these winning colors into your decor by using silver and gold balloons, tableware, even colored candles. If there is anything that can be customized with colors, keep it metallic.
Bourbon Tasting
Photo: maeching chaiwongwatthana/shutterstock.com Woodford Reserve is the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby and there are plenty of options to pick from. Double oaked, malted, wheat, and rye batches allow the perfect opportunity for a tasting at this derby shindig. Select up a variety of your favorite bourbon for guests to taste and try, while also getting into the spirit of the derby.
Derby Hat Contest
Photo: Diane Bondareff/shutterstock.com The Kentucky Derby is known for people wearing extravagant hats and headpieces. Invite guests to model their own and vote for the best. Award the most over-the-top, largest, most creative, whatever category you can think of!
Horseshoes
Photo: mary981/shutterstock.com This is a horse race afterall; lean into the theme by arranging a game of horseshoes. If the weather cooperates, a variety of lawn games is the perfect derby day party activity. Browse Amazon to purchase your own set of horseshoes, cornhole, ladder toss, and more outdoor games.
Brunch
Photo: Losangela/shutterstock.com The races typically begins in the late morning to early afternoon, so there is no better meal to celebrate this event than brunch. Visit your local bakery to pick up an assortment of bagels, pastries, and other delicious brunch treats for guests to snack on. Don’t forget plenty of champagne and fruit juice for derby day mimosas!
Southern Pecan Pie
Photo: vm2002/shutterstock.com There is nothing sweeter than a slice of delicious pecan pie, so it has to make an appearance on your dessert spread during the Kentucky Derby party. Get creative with dessert by trying different variations like chocolate pecan pie, bourbon, or banana caramel.
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Photo: Brent Hofacker/shutterstock.com Turn this authentic Kentucky Derby meal into a party-friendly bite. Traditionally served as an open-faced sandwich using turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, these sandwiches can easily be made as little sliders that are sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Mint Julep
Photo: Julie Vader/shutterstock.com The official drink of the derby, dating back to 1983, is the mint julep. Whip up your own using bourbon, simple syrup, water, and fresh mint poured over ice. Serve in a silver cup because everyone will be a winner with this derby day cocktail.
Fresh Lemonade
Photo: nblx/shutterstock.com Who doesn’t love a cold, refreshing glass of fresh lemonade? You can never go wrong with mixing up a pitcher of lemonade for party guests to sip on. Elevate this beverage by using sparkling water, strawberries, or orange slices for a delicious party drink.
Kentucky Oaks Lily
Photo: 279photo Studio/shutterstock.com The official drink of the Kentucky Oaks is an Oaks Lily, a cocktail made with Finlandia vodka, sweet and sour mix, triple sec, and cranberry juice. Garnish with blackberries and a lemon wedge to create this beautiful derby drink.
Dress for the Occasion
Photo: Nmorguelan/shutterstock.com In case you didn’t know, the racetrack also doubles as a runway. A Kentucky Derby party is the perfect opportunity to don your new summer dress, suit and tie, feathered hat, or fascinator. Think bold and loud for this dress code because nothing is off limits.
Garden Party
Photo: Ground Picture/shutterstock.com Weather permitting, host this soiree outside! The Kentucky Derby provides the perfect opportunity to set up this event in your garden or backyard. If the sun is shining and it’s not too hot out, definitely take advantage of using nature as your backdrop.
Watch the Race
Photo: Vladimir Hodac/shutterstock.com If you’re hosting your party on the day of the derby, have it playing for guests to watch in between mingling and the party activities. You can always stream past races if your event isn’t taking place in May.
Get ready to host the ultimate Kentucky Derby Party with these 5 easy tips! From setting the perfect Derby-inspired decor to crafting delicious cocktails and planning a mouthwatering Southern spread, this article has everything you need to throw a memorable celebration.
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- IDEA #1 ~ Derby Wreath. Every party needs decorations and Kentucky Derby is no exception. The “Run for the Roses” dictates that roses should be somewhere in your party scene.
- IDEA #2 ~ Derby Banner. I discovered these adorable printables for the Kentucky Derby from Melissa of Polka Dot Chair. This is one creative lady. With her printables, you can make banners, cupcake toppers, rosettes ~ just about anything for a Kentucky Derby party.
- IDEA #3 ~ Black Horse DIY. I recently found this Kentucky Derby horse decoration that I thought was really cute from Heather at Southern State of Mind. I have the moss, so I just need to find a black horse.
- IDEA #4 ~ Derby Hat DIY. Hats for Kentucky Derby are notorious for outlandish flowers, feathers and size. Here is a great DIY for a floral Kentucky Derby hat.
Apr 14, 2023 · karenfoleyphotography / iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images. Like chess tournaments and coronations, the Kentucky Derby has an old-world sensibility and glamor you rarely see anymore. Step into that 148-year-old legacy by making your house the destination to be with a Kentucky Derby party.
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