I’m sharing my blueprint on how to throw a Kentucky Derby themed party that your lucky friends won’t forget! It’s the most exciting 2 minutes in sports. But to be honest, it’s the festivities for me. Love a theme party, you know? Here’s what you need…
Finger Foods
No need to get fussy and plan a sit down meal. Finger foods are king when it comes to gatherings. Any foods involving bourbon.
This cheeseboard with bourbon crackling caramel works for me! I love these antipasto skewers too!
Drinks Duh!
The obvious one here is the mint julep.
This photo and recipe is from The Spruce Eats. It has 158 5 star reviews. Click here to get the recipe!
I found this list of various wines with horses on the labels which adds to the festivities! The secret to pulling off a great theme party is in the details.
If you’re looking to spice things up, I found the cutest Kentucky Derby cups ever! You guys, how cute are these?! You could even use them as fun little flower vases or fill them with candy and scratch off tickets as a fun little party favor to hand out as guests leave.
Hats
You can’t throw a Kentucky Derby themed party without discussing hats.
I’ve recently stumbled upon Tenth Street Hats. They have a great ethos and a hand picked, boutique feel. Check out this video to help give a better understanding of why I love them so much!
Here’s a perfect derby hat from Tenth Street…
Games
A horse race -especially this one means guests should place their bets! How cool is this set up?!
There is a little card with some background info on each horse and jockey along with a jar for bets. This way, guests can learn more about the event and have someone to cheer for once the gates fly open!
Obviously if people are putting in the effort to come dressed up in their Derby’s best, it would be even more fun to have a contest for best hat and best dressed gentleman.
Roses are always a nice touch, but get them in red because the horse that wins this race gets decked out in a garland made entirely of red roses.
Join the discussion!