How to Have a Kentucky Derby Party

Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky

One of horse racing's biggest events is the Kentucky Derby, also known as "The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports," is run on the first Saturday in May annually. You can mark this annual event with a themed party that incorporates elements of fashion, food and fun.

Instructions

1. 

   The Kentucky Derby is run the first Saturday in May.

   Pick the date. Since the Kentucky Derby (first Saturday in May) actually kicks off two weeks prior to the race with the start of the Kentucky Derby Festival, the party can occur at any time within this window and still be timely to the event. The type of party will dictate how much time guests will need; if a formal affair is planned then guests will need more time to prepare versus a casual affair with everyday dress.

2. 

   The theme can be formal or casual.

   Decide on a theme. The Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Derby Festival include quite a range of events so there are many ways to develop a party theme. According to the Kentucky Derby website many aspects of the Kentucky Derby can serve well as a theme including the infield, racing silks and the red carpet. A Kentucky Derby Festival theme could include sports, music, wacky races and dancing.

3. 

   The traditional drink for the Kentucky Derby is the mint julep.

   Choose the menu. Anything from formal buffet style to BBQ fits right in with the Kentucky Derby but the must-have would be the classic Mint Julep, made with Kentucky bourbon. Food offerings should include popular southern foods such as ham, pecans, breads and greens as well as local fare with plenty of desserts. When deciding on the menu, keep in mind the guest list and make sure there are food and drink enough for all guests, including kids.

4. 

   Red roses symbolize the Kentucky Derby.

   Create the atmosphere. The Kentucky Derby is known as "The Run for the Roses" so roses can play an important part in the decor. Silk or silk-like fabrics will enhance the race theme on tables, as napkins or draped on the walls for drama. Race-related items such as racing programs, binoculars and betting cards placed around the party will add flavor to the event and make fun party favors.

5. 

   Plan games around the race for party fun.

   Prepare entertainment. An endearing tradition of the Kentucky Derby is the Stephen Foster ballad, "My Old Kentucky Home," so print out and share the lyrics so everyone is able to sing along during the post parade. Games like "pin the tail on the racehorse," three-legged races and horse-in-a-hat are easy to play for kids, while adults can set up their own betting pools on the outcome.

6. Keep your televisions at the ready. Post time for the Kentucky Derby is traditionally around 6 p.m. Eastern Time, though cable and network coverage can start hours earlier. Usher your guests toward the television just before the post parade to make sure everyone has a good view of the Run for the Roses.

Tips & Warnings

• Enjoy alcohol in moderation.

References

• Official Kentucky Derby Site
• Kentucky Derby Festival
• Games

Resources

• Mint Julep Recipe
• Southern Food