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This year’s Kentucky Derby, the world’s most legendary horse racing event, will take place on the first Saturday in May, as it has since 1875. If a trip to Louisville isn’t in the cards, here are a few local eateries throwing fancy-schmancy parties complete with the requisite mint juleps and froufrou hats.
Betty Danger's Country Club’s Kentucky Derbatante
This sold out last year, so you might want to get those tickets soon. The party starts at 2:30 p.m. with the race’s live broadcast, and continues into the evening with DJ Strangelove, a dedicated mint julep bar, Derby mini golf, actual ponies with a pony petting coral, bouncy horse races, croquet, polo and a best hat contest, of course. Tickets are $18.95 and include a mint julep.
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Join a lakeside Kentucky Derby party with an outdoor raw bar, live music by the The High 48's and Hookers $ Blow, prizes and contests including round trip domestic airline tickets for the best dressed lady and gent and more. Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 at the door and include a complimentary mint julep. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
The University Club in St. Paul
Posh and dolled up for the Derby. For a $45 ticket, patrons can nosh on Southern-inspired treats and beverages and watch the live race feed from down South. This is a 21+ event.
Brit’s Pub
What do the English and Kentucky Derby have in common? Why, pretty hats and dapper gents, of course. Stop by Brit’s Pub on May 6 for the jaunty festivities, including projector screens, live music from Bluegrass Fiasco, mint julep and other brut specials at outdoor bars and naturally, a cigar roller. This event has no cover.
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Dark Horse in St. Paul
This restaurant is not only throwing a heck of a party to celebrate the run for the roses, the event will double as a fundraiser for Twin Cities Pride. There will be music from DJ Shannon Blowtorch, a hat contest and cocktails all around. The event is held in collaboration with Indeed Brewing and Knob Creek.
