Must Haves for your Derby Party
The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race — it's a time-honored tradition steeped in history, excitement, and, of course, delicious food and festive parties. Join us as we explore the rich traditions surrounding Derby Day celebrations and share tips for your Derby Day!
The Outfits: To start, nothing is more important to a Derby party than the wardrobe! While the Derby is famous for big fancy hats, it’s all about channeling Southern charm. Seersucker suits, fancy dresses, over-the-top hair styles – it’s all game for Derby parties.
The Décor: Set the stage for your Derby Day party with charming decor inspired by the traditions of the race. From horseshoe motifs to floral arrangements featuring roses — the official flower of the Kentucky Derby — discover creative ideas to add a touch of Southern flair to your celebration.
The Betting: Get in on the action and embrace the thrill of the race by hosting a friendly betting pool for your Derby Day party guests. Learn how to place bets, understand odds and keep track of the races to make your party even more exciting. We don’t recommend taking big chances, but a few quarter bets with friends and family can be super fun.
The Drinks: You know we had to start our food recommendations with the Mint Julep – it has been the Official Drink of the Kentucky Derby since 1930! This cocktail, made with bourbon, mint, sugar and crushed ice (and sometimes fruit), is usually served in a silver or pewter cup. The popularity of this drink is closely connected to the efforts of Churchill Downs, the racetrack where the Kentucky Derby is held. We found a great article about it on Wine Enthusiast: https://www.wineenthusiast.com/recipe/how-to-make-a-proper-mint-julep/.
The Snacks: Having just the right snacks makes the perfect party. If you’re looking for a real southern classic, you have to try our Triple Cheddar Pimento Cheese Dip. It’s also a fantastic way to bring a fresh veggie tray – or charcuterie – to the table.
The Main Dish: When those Mint Juleps go down too easy, it’s good to have a hearty meal ready to enjoy, which is why we love Kentucky Hot Browns. These open-faced sandwiches layered with turkey, bacon, Mornay sauce and tomato are unique and seriously satisfying. Taste of Home has a fantastic recipe: https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/kentucky-hot-brown/.
The Dessert: Derby Pie is a sweet (and we’re talking sweeeeeeet) southern treat is a gooey pie packed with chocolate and pecans, but it can be hard to find a little tough to make. If you want to try something a little more simple, we recommend a fruit tray with our Vanilla Cream Cheese Fruit Dip swirled with Kentucky Bourbon and Cinnamon. The trick to making this treat is all about proportions, so we’ve put together a quick little recipe on our website: https://www.tasteofthesouthdips.com/tips-of-the-south/derby-inspired-bourbon-cinnamon-fruit-dip.
As the "Run for the Roses" approaches, immerse yourself in the timeless traditions of the Kentucky Derby. Whether you're sipping mint juleps, indulging in Derby pie, or donning your finest attire for a festive celebration, Derby Day is a time to revel in the spirit of Southern charm, camaraderie and excitement.
