Where, When, and How to enjoy The Kentucky Derby

It’s almost Derby time! Whether you’re watching the Kentucky Derby at home, or dressing up in a fancy hat and going somewhere to watch the race, we’re gathering some options to help you celebrate. 

The Kentucky Derby is Saturday, May 7, 2022 at Churchill Downs. Also known as “The Run for the Roses”, and “The Fastest Two Minutes in Sports”, the Kentucky Derby is the first leg of the American Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes, and then the Belmont Stakes. 

Kentucky Derby Traditions

Whether you want to host a Derby Party at home, or are attending, one there are a few things you may want to remember. After nearly 150 years running, the race is steeped in traditions. 

One of the most well-known traditions of the Derby are the hats, which started in 1875! No hat is too fancy or over-the-top for the Kentucky Derby.

The tradition is said to have started as a way to bring a more favorable crowd and high-society feel to the event. Race tracks had a bad reputation as a place for women in society, and this helped change the culture and class of the race, making it a  “place to be seen”. Now, both men and women wear hats for good luck.

The mint julep is the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby. The historic beverage of bourbon, mint, and simple syrup is served in a silver or pewter julep cup (or whatever you have!).

The drink was popular in the south, and in Kentucky, where 95% of the world’s Bourbon is produced, and became the official drink of the Derby in 1938. 

The song My Old Kentucky Home, written by Stephen Foster has been a Derby Day tradition since 1921, and was named the Kentucky state song in 1928.

The Derby is frequently referred to as “The Run for the Roses”, because a lush blanket of 554 red roses is draped over the Kentucky Derby winner each year. The red rose is the official flower of the derby. 

Some of the traditional food fare of the race include Kentucky Hot Browns, Deviled eggs, fried chicken, pulled pork, biscuits, Kentucky Burgoo, bread pudding, Benedictine Dip, Pimiento Cheese Spread, Derby Sundae, 

Kentucky Derby Party at Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs

Saturday, May 7, 2022. Watch and wager on the race! Party features food, entertainment and great company during this exclusive event! Reservations available for parties up to 4. Tickets can be purchased by contacting us at 614-295-4769. See details. 

Limited ticket availability, must be 21+ to purchase tickets. 

Derby Party at Edison Brewing Company

Saturday, May 7, 2022 from 11 am – after the race. 

Bring your big hats & fancy ties! Live music from Sparky. 785 Science Blvd, Gahanna, OH 43230. See details. 

Hats, Bowties & Derby Cocktails at Short North Julep

Sat, May 7, 2022 from 4:30 pm – 9:00 pm

5th annual Kentucky Derby Viewing Party to watch the most exciting 2 minutes of sports. Enjoy the unique made from scratch Mint Juleps served in the official Derby Glass, and all other official Derby Cocktails.

Dress to impress for your chance to win prizes for Best female hat, best male bow tie & Best Dressed couple ($300 in gift card giveaways!). Limited number of tickets available. 

Tickets are $25 each and include 2 derby cocktails of your choice, plus the official Derby glass as a souvenir. This is a 21+ event. Buy tickets here.

Know of other fun for the Kentucky Derby in Columbus? Let us know!

More Kentucky Derby fun

Details tba for 2022

Cameron Mitchell Premier Events Derby Kits

photo: CMPE2U’s Derby Kits

CMPE2U’s Derby Kits include the perfect dishes and snacks for cheering on your favorite horse.

There are multiple offers available to round out your menu:

The four-person meal option focuses on classic race-day dishes like Kentucky Hot Browns, Shredded Short Ribs and Cheddar Grits. The rest of the meal includes Pimento Deviled Eggs, Spinach and Romaine Salad, Corn Pudding and Roasted Seasonal Vegetables. Finish off the night with Kentucky Bread Pudding and Buttermilk Biscuits smothered with jam and honey.

The Derby Watch Party Snacks package includes the classic Kentucky Hot Browns and Pimento Deviled Eggs, in addition to a spicy and sweet Hot Chicken with a Donut. Benedictine Dip, Bourbon Glazed Meatballs, Buffalo Chicken Dip and Pulled Pork Cheesy Potatoes are essentials for any watch party, followed by Derby Pie Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars.

For dessert, enjoy decadent Sea Salt and Bourbon Truffles topped with caramel drizzle.

Drinks! Order a Belmont Jewel with bourbon, lemonade, pomegranate juice and brandied cherry or a Bourbon Mint Julep to transform your living room into Churchill Downs.

All orders must be placed by 5pm on this Friday, April 23 for a Friday, April 30 pick-up at CMPE. More information can be found on the website. 

photo: CMPE2U’s Derby Kits

Kentucky Derby Day at Crafted Culture Brewing Company

Saturday, May 1 from 12 pm – 8 pm. 

Come celebrate black history and excellence at our 1st Kentucky Derby Watch Party. 505 Morrison Road Gahanna, OH 43230. See details here.