Derby Day 2023 is one week away! The Kentucky Derby is arguably the world’s most famous horse race, running continuously since 1875 (click here for some race history). The Derby is synonymous with fast horses, mint juleps, extravagant hats, and the iconic Twin Spires of Churchill Downs.
This year’s Derby features horses like Forte, who, at three years old, has earned over $2.3 million, and Verifying, the son of Justify, the last winner of the Triple Crown in 2018. But you don’t have to be a handicapper to enjoy the races. Watch for the beautiful, sleek horses, the colorful spectacle of race day, or the excitement of who crosses the wire first.
Today I’m sharing some inspiration to help you get in the spirit of Derby Day — whether you go all out and host a fancy dress watch party, or catch the most exciting two minutes in sports from the comfort of your couch.
the gear
green hat | pink hat | cocktail napkins | julep cups | tea towel | Vineyard Vines t-shirt
the mint julep
No Kentucky Derby watch party is complete without mint juleps. They look fancy, but are a cinch to mix up. Here’s a recipe:
Ingredients (makes one drink)
- 2 oz bourbon of your choice (I like Four Roses Small Batch)
- 3/4 oz Simple Syrup
- 8-10 mint leaves
- 3 mint sprigs, for garnish
Preparation
Pack mint julep cup with crushed ice. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, syrup, and mint leaves. Lightly bruise mint leaves with a muddler, strain contents into julep cup. Garnish with 3 generous sprigs of mint.
the food
This year, I plan to serve the “official” Kentucky Derby at-home menu: country ham and pepper jelly crostini; fried chicken salad; and bourbon ball milkshakes (links to recipes here). If you’re in need of additional ideas, Southern Living has compiled a list of 38 Kentucky Derby party recipes.
Are you excited for Derby Day? Share your watch party plans and who you’ll be rooting for in the comments!
i love the kentucky derby!