The Kentucky Derby is right around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning the ultimate Derby Day celebration! Whether you’re a die-hard horse racing fan or just in it for the fashion, food, and festivities (no judgement… honestly same), hosting a Kentucky Derby party is all about embracing the spirit of Southern hospitality. From elegant Derby attire to delicious signature cocktails and charming race-day decor, every detail adds to the excitement of the “greatest two minutes in sports.”

To make party planning easy, I’ve put together this Kentucky Derby party guide, breaking everything down into three key sections: mouthwatering Derby-inspired recipes, creative party décor ideas and DIYs, and stylish Derby Day outfit inspiration to ensure you and your guests look the part. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard get-together or a fancy soirée complete with big hats and bow ties, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to make your event feel authentic and unforgettable.

Kentucky Derby-Themed Party Guide

In this guide, I’ll share my favorite Derby Day recipes, from classic mint juleps to crowd-pleasing Southern appetizers and desserts. I’ll also walk you through easy Derby-themed DIYs and decorating ideas to help you set the scene with festive touches like roses, horseshoes, and vintage-inspired details. And, of course, no Kentucky Derby party is complete without the perfect outfit! Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated dress or the perfect flamboyant fascinator, I’ve got you covered with Derby Day fashion inspiration.

So grab a julep, find your fanciest hat, and keep reading for all my best Kentucky Derby-themed party ideas to make this year’s celebration one to remember!

Kentucky Derby Recipes: The Ultimate Party Menu

When it comes to Kentucky Derby party food, you can’t go wrong with classic Southern flavors and bourbon-infused treats. Whether you’re serving savory appetizers, indulgent Derby Day desserts, or signature cocktails, this spread will have your guests feeling like they’re at Churchill Downs. To make planning easier, I’ve broken down this section into appetizers, desserts, and cocktails—so you can mix and match your favorites for the perfect Derby Day menu!

Kentucky Derby Party Appetizers

One of my favorite things about the Kentucky Derby is that it happens smack dab in the middle of the day, meaning guests aren’t expecting a full meal. Instead, you can put together a grazing board or serve a selection of Southern-inspired appetizers. Here are a few must-try Derby Day appetizers–

• Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs– This Kentucky Derby appetizer combines two Southern staples: deviled eggs and pimento cheese. The best part? You can make the filling a day in advance for easy prep.
• Bourbon Pulled Pork Sliders– If you love set-it-and-forget-it appetizers, these bourbon-infused pulled pork sliders are a game-changer. Just slow-cook the pork, assemble the sliders, and top them with homemade coleslaw for an hearty dish that people will literally rave about.
• Baked Pimento Cheese Dip– If you love pimento cheese, just wait until you try it warm and melty. This dip is a cheesy creamy dream and pairs perfectly with crackers and toasted baguette slices.
• Beef Tenderloin Crostinis– These are Kyle’s absolute favorite. They’re a bit more of a splurge, but they’re worth every bite. These elegant crostinis feature tender slices of beef tenderloin topped with a flavorful horseradish sauce and micro-greens, making them the ultimate elevated Derby party appetizer.

Other classic Kentucky Derby appetizers include cornbread, benedictine dip, mini hot browns, fried chicken bites, and cheese straws—all easy-to-eat options that fit the Derby theme.

Kentucky Derby Desserts

No Derby Day party is complete without a sweet Southern dessert (or two). Whether you prefer boozy treats or classic confections, these Kentucky Derby desserts are guaranteed to be a hit:

• Mini Bourbon Pecan Pies– If you like pecan pie, you’ll love these mini bourbon pecan pies. The rich caramelized pecans combined with a hint of bourbon make for an irresistibly delicious treat. Serve them warm with ice cream for extra indulgence!
• Mint Julep Cupcakes– Inspired by the iconic Derby cocktail, these cupcakes are flavored with mint and bourbon and topped with fluffy buttercream. Pipe pink buttercream roses on top to tie in the classic “Run for the Roses” theme!

For even more Southern dessert inspiration, consider serving bourbon balls, Derby pie bars, mini banana puddings, or buttermilk biscuits with honey butter– all of which make delicious additions to your Derby Day dessert spread.

Kentucky Derby Cocktails & Drinks

No Kentucky Derby party is complete without bourbon! While a classic mint julep is a must, offering a few different Derby Day cocktails ensures that all your guests can sip on something they love. Here are a few fun bourbon cocktails to serve alongside juleps–

• Kentucky Mule– A refreshing twist on a Moscow Mule, this cocktail swaps vodka for bourbon, creating a crisp, minty drink that’s perfect for Derby Day.
• Woodford Spire– A Woodford Spire is Woodford Reserve’s official derby drink. It can be easily batched, too, which is handy for parties.
• Frozen Mint Julep Punch– This frozen mint julep punch sneaks up on you and is always a guest favorite! Not only is it one of my all-time favorite batch cocktails, it can also be made well in advance.
• Black-Eyed Rye– In my opinion, Black-Eyed Ryes are tastier variations of Black-Eyed Susans, the official drink of the Preakness Stakes. They’re a huge hit with rye whiskey and blackberry lovers alike!

For non-bourbon drinkers, be sure to have beer, wine, and a few non-alcoholic options on hand. If you want to make alcohol-free mint juleps, swap the bourbon for ginger ale, lemonade and club soda, or a good zero proof bourbon, like Spiritless Kentucky 74 or Unwhiskey.

And don’t forget the drinkware! Traditional silver julep cups add an authentic Derby touch, but I also love these copper julep cups from Woodford Reserve—they keep drinks extra cold and look gorgeous on a bar cart. They fly in and out of stock, though, so I’m linking an alternate set of copper julep mugs here.

Kentucky Derby-Inspired Party Decor

When it comes to Kentucky Derby party decor, you can take one of two approaches: classic elegance or playful kitsch. While both styles are fun, they don’t always mix well, so it’s best to choose one theme and stick with it. Personally, I lean toward classic Derby decor, incorporating fresh roses, boxwood greenery, and metallic accents for a timeless look. Think gold urn-style vases (like these), lush floral rose arrangements, and traditional Southern charm.

If you’re planning your own Derby Day celebration, here are some of my favorite Kentucky Derby decorating ideas to bring the spirit of Churchill Downs to your home!

Derby Day Tablescapes

A well-styled table can instantly elevate your Derby Day party. Here are a couple of my favorite Kentucky Derby tablescapes–

• Pink and Green Kentucky Derby Tablescape– Instead of using the traditional rose red, I opted for soft blush tones paired with DIY boxwood wreath chargers and a lush green and pink centerpiece. The result? A fresh and (and very pink!) take on Derby decor.
• Kentucky Derby Party Spread with Red Rose Centerpiece– Since my table was long and narrow, I created two matching red rose floral arrangements instead of one large centerpiece. I also added a Kelly green table runner to tie the whole look together.

No matter your table size, incorporating roses, rich greenery, and metallic accents will create a polished and festive Kentucky Derby tablescape. Experiment with different colors and themes to find your style!

DIY Derby Day Decor & Party Favor Ideas

If you prefer DIY party decor, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to add a personalized touch to your Derby Day celebration. Here are a few of my favorites–

• Mini Mint Julep Kits–  These DIY mint julep kits are always a hit! I love making my own mint simple syrup and packaging it in sweet little mini bottles. Another great thing about these cocktail kits? They look adorable styled on party tables and bar carts.
• DIY Derby Drink Stirrers– Inspired by Inspired by Charm, these DIY derby drink stirrers are easy to make and add a festive flair to your Derby Day cocktails and mint julep kits.
• DIY Boxwood Wreath Chargers– Since rich boxwood greenery is a staple of Derby decor, I created boxwood wreath chargers using some faux garland I found on Amazon. They add a natural upscale touch to any place setting.

These DIY projects are all easy and affordable, making them great additions to your Kentucky Derby party decor.

More Kentucky Derby Decoration Ideas

If you want to go all out with Derby-themed decor, consider adding these festive elements–

• Roses, garlands, and wreaths– The Kentucky Derby is famously called the “Run for the Roses,” so incorporating fresh roses, floral garlands, and wreaths is an easy way to embrace the theme. Case in point, a red rose horseshoe wreath (like this one) makes for a stunning statement piece!
• Derby Day bar carts– Since mint juleps and bourbon cocktails are Derby Day staples, setting up a bar cart with different bourbons, mixers, and garnishes is a great way to keep the drinks flowing. A well-styled Kentucky Derby bar cart (like this one) also doubles as decor!
• “Place Your Bets” station– A betting station adds an interactive element to your Derby party! Set up a cute betting sign (like this one) with slips so guests can place friendly wagers on their favorite horses. 

By mixing classic floral arrangements, Derby-themed DIY projects, and classic color schemes, you can create a Kentucky Derby party atmosphere that’s perfect for celebrating the most exciting two minutes in sports!

Kentucky Derby Style: What to Wear on Race Day

When it comes to Kentucky Derby fashion, the motto is go bold or go home! This is the one event where you can truly “peacock” your heart out. Think vibrant colors, statement-making hats, and head-turning ensembles. Whether you’re attending the race at Churchill Downs or hosting a Derby watch party, dressing the part is half (who are we kidding? Pretty much all of) the fun.

If you’re looking for the perfect Derby hat or need help putting together a stylish outfit, keep reading for inspiration!

Kentucky Derby Hats & Fascinators

A Derby Day look isn’t complete without a show-stopping hat or fascinator. While you can find a variety of styles on Amazon, it’s not always easy to match one perfectly to your outfit. That’s why DIY Kentucky Derby hats are a great option! I actually made the hat I’m wearing in this post, and it was much easier than I expected. If you’re feeling crafty, check out my step-by-step guide here!

• How to Make Your Own Kentucky Derby Hat

Kentucky Derby Outfit Inspiration

When it comes to Kentucky Derby outfits, anything goes in terms of color and style. From classic and elegant to bold and whimsical, I’ve styled dozens of Derby-ready looks over the years, and no two have ever been the same. My best advice? Wear something that makes you feel lively, confident, and comfortable!

Need some specific Derby outfit inspiration? Here are a few of my favorite looks from past years–

• 3 Head-to-Toe Kentucky Derby Outfit Ideas with Maggy London
• Light Blue Derby Outfit
• Yellow Derby Outfit
• Classic Black and White Derby Outfit

No matter what you wear, own your look and have fun with it! After all, the Kentucky Derby is just as much about style and tradition as it is about the race itself.

 

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Well, that’s a wrap on this Kentucky Derby party guide! I hope these Derby Day ideas inspire you to host a celebration that’s just as stylish and festive as the races themselves. If there’s anything I missed or if you have your own favorite Derby party traditions, I’d love to hear them! Feel free to drop a comment so we can swap ideas. In the meantime, thanks so much for stopping by, and cheers to a fabulous Derby Day filled with good food, great company, and plenty of mint juleps!

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I was reimbursed for the cost of these products as part of a sponsored social campaign with Woodford Reserve. However, I enjoyed creating this Kentucky Derby party spread so much that I couldn’t resist featuring it on my blog, as well. Although there was no obligation to share it here, I genuinely wanted to because I love how it turned out! As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.