Whether or not you’re a horse racing fan, an equine lover, or couldn’t tell the difference between a thoroughbred and a donkey, you’ll find it difficult to escape the lure and pageantry of the Kentucky Derby. The beautiful bright colored clothes and hats of the fans, the vibrant racing colors at the track, the celebratory drinks, and of course the anticipation of 3 year old horse winning one of the most celebrated sporting events in the world will make any observer a fan of the what’s commonly called “the sport of Kings”.

If you’ve watched the Kentucky Derby on TV or been to the track itself, you’ll understand what I’m saying, but if by chance you’ve glossed over this spectacular race, here is a guide to help you enjoy the unique Derby experience by throwing the party of the year.

What to wear

Unlike most sporting events where the dress is casual and sporty and a team jersey with your favorite player written on the back will usually suffice, dressing for the Derby or going to a Derby party will allow you to display your creative juices. Go all out! Dress in bright, vibrant colors and do not pass up this opportunity to buy or borrow a fabulous hat. If you want to be even more creative, make a hat yourself. I’m not much of an artist, so I can’t tell you exactly how to do it, but some of the most spectacular hats are homemade. Anything that you can do to turn heads is a must. You can’t imagine all the crazy, creative things people will put on their heads. The Derby is all about standing out. Whether it’s bright colors, sleek, refined clothes and hats or the most outrageous styles you’ve ever seen, it’s all about having fun and showing your enthusiasm.

Décor

Keep in mind that it’s spring so always think of vibrant spring colors. For a little extra something, drape the walls with swatches of silk cloth that look like racing silks.

The winner of the Kentucky Derby receives a beautiful and lavish Garland of Roses which he will hoist above his head like an Olympic athlete displaying his gold medal. The garland of roses have become a symbol of the Derby, so use them freely in decorating by sprinkling them around the party or placing a garland of roses shaped like a horseshoe as a centerpiece on your table. To finish off your Derby theme, buy some inexpensive plastic horses and jockey figurines and place them in every room.

Food
Derby food should be typical Kentucky Fare such as fresh asparagus, corn pudding, beef tenderloin, country ham on biscuits, and fresh strawberries dipped in chocolate. As for drinks, mint juleps are a must. It can be an acquired taste (way too strong for me), but no Derby party is complete without it. And besides, it’s a great conversation piece, “hey, have you tried the mint julep yet?” “Yeah, it’s disgusting.” “No way, I could drink 10 of these, although then I wouldn’t know the difference between the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Fried Chicken.” Ok, you see what I mean.

Recipe for Mint julep

Make simple syrup by boiling sugar and water together for five minutes. Cool and place in a covered container with six or eight sprigs of fresh mint, then refrigerate overnight. Make one julep at a time by filling a julep cup with crushed ice, adding one tablespoon mint syrup and two ounces of Kentucky bourbon. Stir rapidly with a spoon to frost the outside of the cup. Garnish with a sprig of mint. (Courtesy of Woodford Reserve Bourbon)

Fun Fact
According to Churchill Downs (the hallowed track where the Derby is raced) over 80,000 mint juleps are served over Derby weekend.