Make Your Kentucky Derby Party A Winner With These Fashion, Food And Drink Tips

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Thanks to Kianna Davis’s iconic 10-year old meme declaring “It’s Gonna Be May,” we have officially entered a new month. And as May begins, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of the first Saturday, famously known as Derby Day!

The Kentucky Derby’s 148th edition will commence at 6:57 p.m. this Saturday. In case any residents of Michigan are not planning to attend the races in Louisville or Northville Downs, they might consider organizing a Derby-inspired gathering instead.

In that case, we have gathered a few tips (mostly) from the source itself to assist hosts in throwing a successful event!

How to watch the Kentucky Derby

Hosting a party centered around the “Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” entails a significant responsibility. Although the Kentucky Derby is an all-day celebration of racing, it is essential to ensure that guests are promptly engaged for the main event.

How to watch the 148th Kentucky Derby

The 2024 Kentucky Derby will take place on Saturday, May 7 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The race will be run on a dirt surface over a distance of 1¼ miles (10 furlongs) and will begin at 6:57 p.m. ET. The event will be broadcasted on NBC and can also be viewed online through Peacock. Pre-race coverage will be available on USA Network from 12-2:30 p.m. and on NBC from 2:30 p.m. The weather forecast for the day predicts temperatures in the low 70s with a 30% chance of showers in the afternoon.

And here’s who you will be watching/wagering on

The horse odds can frequently fluctuate on the day of the race, but the following horses are currently scheduled to compete on Saturday. If you’re interested in gaining further insights into betting, you can find a comprehensive guide to the Playinmichigan Derby here.

Post Position	Horse	Odds
1	Mo Donegal	10-1
2	Happy Jack	30-1
3	Epicenter	7-2
4	Summer Is Tomorrow	30-1
5	Smile Happy	20-1
6	Messier	8-1
7	Crown Pride	20-1
8	Charge It	20-1
9	Tiz the Bomb	30-1
10	Zandon	3-1
11	Pioneer of Medina	30-1
12	Taiba	12-1
13	Simplification	20-1
14	Barber Road	30-1
15	White Abarrio	10-1
16	Cyberknife	20-1
17	Classic Causeway	30-1
18	Tawny Port	30-1
19	Zozos	20-1
20	Ethereal Road	30-1

And now, onto the party!

To host a truly successful Derby party, certain essential elements are a must: the attire, the beverages, the decorations, and the food. Unfortunately, for individuals who, like the author, find it challenging to meet deadlines, it is likely too late to order charming paper invitations.

Sending an electronic invitation is still possible at this point. Punchbowl offers a great selection of online invitations that are free when you sign up for a trial subscription.

After finalizing the invitations and guest list, a crucial decision awaits: Should there be a dress code or not? There is no obligation to conform to the elegant outfits that will be flaunted at Churchill Downs. However, for those who opt for a formal dress requirement, continue reading.

How to dress for a Kentucky Derby party

As per the Derby website, it is believed that wearing a hat on Derby Day can bring good fortune. Considering the forecast for Michigan, which predicts a 50 percent chance of rainsnowarmageddon and temperatures struggling to reach the mid-50s, it is advisable to ensure that guests have additional clothing options such as a parka, knit cap, hoodie, and so on.

However, for the sake of imagination, let’s assume that warmer temperatures and sunny skies will prevail. Continue reading for suggestions on suitable clothing choices.

Women’s fashion

• Choose a vibrant dress or pantsuit displaying an array of colors, floral designs, or patterns inspired by horses.
• It is recommended for Michigan guests attending Churchill Downs to consider wearing spring heels. However, it is advisable to also pack boots as a precaution in case of snow.
• The jewelry can either remain subtle or absent altogether, as the main focus lies on the hat.

The Hats

The timeless wide-brimmed hat, known as the iconic “Southern Belle” style, not only looks great but also provides an opportunity to showcase one’s creativity by adding personalized decorations. Another headpiece that has been gaining popularity is the fascinator, which owes its rise in fame to the trendy fashion choices of the Duchess of Cambridge. Although not technically classified as hats, these dressy headpieces add a touch of elegance to any outfit.

Men can achieve a stylish Derby look by opting for fedoras or bowler hats. It’s the perfect opportunity to embrace boldness in your choice of headwear.

Men’s fashion

• Begin your ensemble with vibrant pants in shades like blue, pink, and green.
• Complete your outfit by pairing it with a lively shirt, like a striped or gingham one.
• The navy or chalk stripe blazer takes the lead as the preferred choice to complete the suit.
• Completing the ensemble, a charming necktie or bowtie paired with loafer shoes sans socks will effortlessly finalize the overall appearance.

Kentucky Derby party decorations

Consider roses, roses, roses. The prominent flower associated with this noteworthy occasion offers effortless adornment, whether indoors or outdoors.

If you are planning an outdoor event, kindly request your guests to bring blankets or lawn chairs. To create a festive atmosphere, set up a beautifully decorated main table stocked with delicious food and beverages, and complement it with a few lawn signs. This simple setup will perfectly enhance the party.

If you’re in the mood for an extravagant experience, the Derby’s decorations page offers a wide array of items that cater to every Derby enthusiast’s wildest imagination. From rock glasses and paper plates to bar towels, napkins, aprons, and even Bourbon & Bluegrass Julep Candles priced at $29.99, you can find anything and everything related to the Derby.

Don’t worry, Michiganders! If you’re longing for the nostalgic pleasure of enjoying a simple outdoor hot dog at the now-closed Hazel Park Raceway, there’s no need to fret. Not all gatherings require elaborate decorations like a miniature tree sculpted into the form of a horse.

Party City offers a wide range of affordable decorations, including paper products, table toppers, photo booth props, and steel Kentucky Derby cups. However, supplies are currently limited at various physical stores, so it is recommended to place your orders as soon as possible.

How to make a mint julep

We can safely assume that anyone planning to host a Derby party is well aware of the quintessential drink that should be served: The Mint Julep! Alongside the Southern classic, Sweet Iced Tea, the Derby’s cocktail page offers a selection of 20 beverages, featuring different renditions of the traditional julep drink.

Derby beverages find a robust base in Bourbon, with Woodford Reserve and Old Forester, the well-known Kentucky staples, frequently featured on the drinks menu. However, I humbly suggest Jim Beam, also originating from Kentucky, as a more budget-friendly alternative.

Those hosting a party can explore the website for additional inspiration, including non-alcoholic mocktail ideas for those who choose not to drink.

Introducing AlcoholFreeDetroit, a fresh Instagram account that highlights delectable non-alcoholic beverages in the metro Detroit area. Discover enticing recipes featuring key ingredients like simple syrup, tea, crushed ice, and refreshing mint leaves for a perfect mix.

In this article, we will provide you with the recipe for a traditional mint julep as well as a non-alcoholic version, perfect for those who prefer mocktails.

The Classic Mint Julep by Woodford Reserve

• Woodford Reserve, a measure of two ounces.
• 0.5 ounces of Simple Syrup
• There are three mint leaves that are fresh.
• Ice that has been smashed or broken into small pieces.

To prepare: Gently rub the mint leaves along the inside of the glass to infuse it with a refreshing minty flavor. Next, pour in the simple syrup, bourbon, and ice. Give it a good stir, add some additional ice if desired, and finally, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

Mint Julep Mocktail

• Simple syrup is equivalent to five ounces.
• Tea without sugar.

To create this beverage, simply take a tall glass filled with ice, combine the two ingredients, and top it off with a mint garnish.

Food to serve at a Kentucky Derby party

The food recipes page of The Derby presents exceptional options to create an impeccable Southern-style menu. The recipes encompass a wide range, from peaches soaked in bourbon to pimento mac and cheese to bourbon-infused rice crispy treats.

Visitors to Millionaires Row at Churchill Downs will indulge in an exquisite official Derby menu featuring delectable dishes such as seared chicken breast accompanied by Pancetta, Vidalia Onion, and fennel cream, as well as succulent short ribs. Additionally, they can relish the delightful Woodford Reserve Sweet Potato Casserole.

If by any chance you happen to be the person in question, please be kind enough to share some leftovers with us.

Fortunately, for hosts lacking a chef of Derby caliber readily available, southern chef Kelsey Barnard Clark offers six delectable recipes for at-home cooking. These include Supper Club Smoked wings with White Barbecue sauce, Twinkle Light Succotash, Okra hot fries, Green eggs and ham, Ice Box cookies, and Mama Jo’s Pecan Pie.

We are sharing the wings recipe because wings and sauce are universally loved! This recipe yields three to five servings, so be sure to adjust accordingly. If you’re not interested in the featured recipes, you can always opt for a box of wings, which is always a safe choice!

Ingredients for “Smoked” wings

• Half a cup of light brown sugar.
• One-fourth cup of salt.
• One-fourth of a cup of smoked paprika.
• One tablespoon of onion powder.
• One tablespoon of garlic powder.
• One-half teaspoon of ground ginger.
• Chicken wings, weighing 5 pounds, rinsed and dried by patting.

To prepare the wings, preheat the oven to 425°F and cover a half sheet pan with parchment paper.

Combine all dry ingredients in a medium bowl and mix well. Toss the wings in the dry rub until they are fully coated, gently patting to ensure the rub sticks. Arrange the wings on a baking pan and cook them for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown color and are cooked all the way through. Allow the wings to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Ingredients for Alabama white barbecue sauce include:<br>- Mayonnaise<br>- Apple cider vinegar<br>- Prepared horseradish<br>- Lemon juice<br>- Worcestershire sauce<br>- Dijon mustard<br>- Garlic powder<br>- Black pepper<br>- Salt

• One cup of mayonnaise.
• One-fourth cup of apple cider vinegar.
• One teaspoon of honey.
• One-half teaspoon of hot sauce.
• One-half teaspoon of smoked paprika.
• One-half teaspoon of salt.
• One-half teaspoon of garlic powder.
• One-half teaspoon of onion powder.
• Freshly ground black pepper, measured as 1/2 teaspoon.
• A dash of cayenne pepper.

To prepare the sauce, combine all the ingredients in a medium mixing bowl and whisk until well blended. Consume right away or store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for a maximum of three months.

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