Skip To Content

    14 Delicious And Charming Reasons To Throw A Kentucky Derby Party

    Although, frankly, bourbon is reason enough.

    1. Kentucky Hot Browns

    For party-purposes, maybe make them in miniature.

    2. Mint Juleps

    (More importantly, pewter julep cups.)

    Serving mint juleps in highball glasses is fine (heck, even a Solo cup can't ruin something with so much bourbon), but really you should use your Derby party as an excuse to buy perfect, adorable julep cups (great selections here, but you can find them in any kitchen store).

    If a classic mint julep is a little too potent for you, try adding fruit or juice.

    3. Mint Julep-Themed Desserts

    4. Roses

    You can even freeze them into ice cubes!

    Instructions here.

    If want to have your roses and eat cake, too, try your hand at a rose cake.

    Rose cookies are a little bit easier, but equally lovely.

    5. Bourbon Balls

    6. Really, bourbon everything.

    7. Benedictine Spread

    Making benedictine sandwiches is even more adorable.

    8. Equestrian Décor

    Learn how to DIY gold horses and jockeys here.

    If your food is cute enough, it counts as a decoration.

    9. Pimento Cheese

    Pro-tip: pimento cheese is a great add-in for next-level deviled eggs.

    It also makes for especially awesome jalapeño poppers.

    10. (Unofficial) Derby Pie

    11. Really Amazing Hats

    Any brimmed hat can be a Derby-ready one when adorned with some ribbon and a silk flower.

    Feel free to sport something really ridiculous.

    Not a hat person? Sweeten the deal by making sugar cookies, instead.

    12. Bow Ties

    You can buy a Derby-themed bow tie online.

    OMG these are printed with mint juleps and horses. They are both completely perfect, and available here and here.

    Or, go for something classic, à la Alton Brown, food-nerd extraordinaire.

    And of course, you could always just make one yourself.

    Also, feel free to take things a step further and just put bow ties everywhere.

    13. Sweet Tea

    Spiking it is encouraged.

    14. Mediocre Puns