Plan the Particulars, from Seating Arrangements to Attire
Derby Day should be spent enjoying your guests’ company and watching the race, so plan as much as you can in advance. Start by sending out invitations ahead of time so guests know all the particulars. Attendees at Churchill Downs dress the part with wide-brimmed hats rumoured to bring good luck. Whether you send classic paper cards or digital invites, make sure the expected attire is laid out clearly. For formal gatherings, include the evening’s menu on the invite. Next, consider the most important question: Where will people watch the game? On the family room sectional or in the basement media room? To seat more guests, add a few extra chairs to the viewing space. If you anticipate good weather, prepare the patio so guests can mingle in the sun before the race begins. Don’t forget to add a vase of fresh roses to every room as a nod to the race’s nickname, “The Run for the Roses.”
Organize Outdoor Games for Pre-Race Fun
While the race itself is over in mere minutes, leave time for your guests to enjoy the festivities. Set up outdoor games such as croquet or bocce ball, or break out the horseshoes for an on-theme yard game. Label each horseshoe with the name of a racing horse, and make predictions on how the horse will perform in the race based on how their respective horseshoe fares. Alternatively, hold a contest for the most creative outfit or hat. Award points for originality in categories for “suits” (look for seersucker and pastels), “dresses” and “hats.” Collect anonymous votes in a basket or bowl, and award the winner with the honor of being first in line at the buffet. Don’t forget to take pictures: set up a photo booth with a floral backdrop and instant print cameras, and send guests home with tangible memories of the day.
Supply Derby Day Refreshments
No Kentucky Derby party would be complete without the classic mint julep. Set up a self-serve julep station complete with fresh-cut mint leaves, sugar, and bourbon. Keep julep cups and an ice bucket nearby so no one has to go looking in the fridge or cabinets to make their cocktail. For a non-alcoholic option, replace the bourbon with fresh lemonade, or set a drink dispenser near the TV and fill with sweet black tea. When stomachs start growling, organize a buffet line around a kitchen island or dining room table, and serve southern favorites such as hushpuppies and pecan pie.
Plan Fun Activities For the Kids
Don’t forget to include the littlest racers in your Derby Day fun. Let each young guest look at the roster of horses and pick their favorite. Then, have them draw pictures of their horse at a DIY arts and crafts station. If the kids want to get really creative, add a hat-making station complete with markers, ribbons, fabric and paper flowers. Put on a fashion show later so they can show off their designs. For outdoor play, set up a “racetrack” in the yard, and let the kids get into the competitive spirit. By the time the Derby begins, they’ll be tuckered out and ready to settle down and watch.
Before the horses line up at the starting gate, gather guests around the screen. The fastest two minutes in sports goes by quickly, so make sure nobody ducks out during those few seconds. What are your favorite Kentucky Derby Party Ideas? Share them with us using the hashtag #Cratestyle.
