Derby Party on the Porch
I’ve always wanted to throw a party for the Kentucky Derby! This year, I didn’t have quite enough time to make it happen, but I was able to set up a “party” on the porch and make a couple of traditional recipes. Now that I’ve experimented a bit, next year throwing a party should be a breeze! Keep scrolling for ideas…just in case you’re planning a party or keep this post for next year!
I ordered hat stands from Amazon to display a few Derby hats as decor.
If you’re wondering about this history of the Kentucky Derby, this article from Garden & Gun is fascinating!
If you’re looking for more Kentucky Derby recipes, here is an excellent roundup from Southern Living Magazine!
Everything you need for traditional mint juleps! I like to make mine by adding a scoop of lemon or lime sorbet to a cup, pouring bourbon over and adding a sprig of fresh mint!
Traditional attire for women attending the Kentucky Derby is characterized by elegant, glamorous, and often flamboyant fashion choices that reflect the event's festive and historic atmosphere. Women typically wear stylish, colorful dresses or skirts paired with elaborate hats or fascinators, which have become a signature element of Derby fashion. These hats range from wide-brimmed sun hats to intricate, feathered, or floral designs, serving as a statement piece that complements their outfits. Accessories such as gloves, statement jewelry, and fashionable footwear complete the look, emphasizing sophistication and charm. The overall attire embodies Southern elegance and celebrates the festive spirit of the Derby, making it a highlight for fashion enthusiasts and spectators alike! I think the dress I chose from Benaara LA is a perfect choice to go with my vintage Derby hat!
I just happened to have a vintage leather horse that was a perfect addition to my table!
Recipes for a Derby Party
Vanilla Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Mint Juleps - Lime or Lemon Sorbet topped with bourbon and garnished with fresh mint
5 Interesting Facts About The Kentucky Derby
The "Run for the Roses": The Kentucky Derby is famously nicknamed "The Run for the Roses" because the winning horse is awarded a blanket of 554 red roses. The tradition began in 1896 and has become an iconic symbol of the race.
It’s the Longest-Running Sporting Event: The Kentucky Derby was first held in 1875, making it the oldest continuously held sporting event in the United States. It has a rich history spanning nearly 150 years.
Unique Qualifying Process — The Derby Points System: Since 2013, the Kentucky Derby has used a points system to determine eligibility, where horses earn points through performance in designated prep races leading up to the Derby. This system replaced the traditional graded stakes earnings method.
The Twin Spires: Churchill Downs, where the Derby is held, is famous for its iconic twin spires that crown the grandstand. The spires were added in 1895 and have become a symbol of the race and Louisville, Kentucky.
A Tradition of Mint Julep: The mint julep is the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby. Approximately 120,000 juleps are served during the event, and the drink has become synonymous with Derby festivities, symbolizing Southern hospitality and elegance.
Most of the items below should arrive before May 3 if you’re planning a party! Sadly, not the pie, but they’re good any time of the year!
And a few more dresses that would be amazing for a derby party!
The recipe below is an easy to eat version of the traditional Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich. A traditional Hot Brown is a hot open-faced sandwich originally created at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, by Fred K. Schmidt in 1926. The legendary, open-face sandwich, which is made from Texas toast, thick-sliced turkey, cheesy Mornay sauce, crisp bacon and tomatoes, all baked until bubbling hot. The slider version below is made with Hawaiian Rolls and is unbelievably addictive! Don’t let the list of ingredients intimidate you…they’re so easy to put together and will disappear in a flash!
I hope you’ve enjoyed this post! Be sure to bookmark it and keep it for next year just in case you decide to throw a Kentucky Derby Party!
Thanks so much for reading!
~XOXO Suzanne