Like most folks in the Northern Hemisphere, we’re patiently waiting for spring to really arrive. This winter seems to drag on and on and on. Even this week there were snow flurries in downtown Chicago. The poor blooming trees and plants just don’t know what to do.
Whether or not the weather cooperates we want to celebrate spring – and soon. And, what better harbinger of spring than the Kentucky Derby? Even if you can’t make it to Louisville for the actual Derby on May 2nd, we’ve got some great tips from our friends at Old Forester who reached out to Derby locals via social media to get their input on how to celebrate the Kentucky Derby like a local wherever you may be.
Where to watch the Kentucky Derby?
The best spots at the Derby are on the second floor, the clubhouse on the first turn, or the backstretch up against the fence. If you’re at home get the best seat you can in front of the big-screen TV.
You’re Wearing What?
The perfect accompaniment for the Derby is a perfect hat. It should feature a wide brim to keep the sun off your delicate face and should include stylish yet simple adornments. Derby hats have a long tradition and are an entertaining event all by themselves.
If you’re actually at the Derby you’ll want to dress in layers so you’re prepared for whatever weather happens that day. Also bring your sunscreen, sunglasses and lip balm.
Most importantly, don’t show up underdressed. Wearing sneakers and no hat will likely get you booted off the invitation list next year.
Betting Strategy
Do all your research and get your bets in early. That way you can relax and enjoy the festivities. We love picking horses by their cute little names. My aunt watched the horses before the race and whoever dropped a “load” right before the race got the nod. Checking out the horses is a great way to see how they’re feeling that day. And, they’re such beautiful animals!
What to eat?
Our favorite part! Go with the classic burgoo southern spicy stew, hot brown sandwich, and the big finish, Derby Pie typically made with chocolate and pecans or walnuts.
If you want to make things a bit simpler, fire up the grill and make some tasty burgers, hot dogs, and ribs.
What to drink?
Mint Juleps, of course! Churchill Downs serves nearly 120,000 mint juleps over the two-day period of Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby, and the Old Forester Mint Julep will be the “Official Drink” served onsite at the track.
To get it perfect every time and without a fuss, try the new Old Forester Mint Julep, a 60-proof ready-to-serve cocktail using Old Forester Straight Bourbon Whisky. It’s sold in 36 markets across the U.S. in a one-liter commemorative Derby-themed bottle. The suggested retail price is $24.99. The ready-to-serve cocktail lets you prepare a perfect Mint Julep in 10 seconds. Just unscrew the bottle and pour over the crushed ice. Even a novice bartender can manage that!
Make your home party an authentic Derby party knowing you’re drinking the same product that will be served to race fans at the track on Derby Day.
We’d like to thank Old Forester for providing us with a sample of the Old Forester Mint Julep ready-to-drink cocktail, great photos, and fun tips on how to enjoy the Kentucky Derby like a local. We were not compensated for this review and all opinions are our own.
THE QUICK BITE: Learn how to celebrate the Kentucky Derby like a local with some fun tips and recommendations and enjoy an easy-to-make Old Forester Mint Julep ready-to-drink cocktail wherever you are.
10 Comments
Before you head to the Kentucky Derby and order one of their $25 mint juleps, you should probably make one at home and try it first. I had a friend who got one at the derby and ended up hating it. I took care of it for her but still, you wouldn’t want to end up wasting $25 on a drink you don’t like 🙂
My daughter has recently come back from Louisville and is desperate to return! I’d love to go with her and come to the Derby!
I thought once before whether I should go horse racing one day in the future, and I believe it will be an interesting experience – at least I should try right? It sounds like a fun event 🙂
Love this. Mainly because during my childhood my dad, sister and me would bet on horses after picking a horse listed in the paper with their odds 🙂 It was tradition! So it would be fun for me to visit live once! I would be sure to wear the biggest hat ever 😉
Races look like such a fancy event!
Interesting betting strategy! I mostly scan for names that mean something for me, and then a few favourites.
I’ve always dreamed of attending the derby (maybe it’s the inner prep in me), but to spend a day watching horses compete while eating sounds perfect to me!
I am not interesting in racing horses but I will go for the sake of fashion because I LOVE HATS!!!
I used to love to go to the races at Del Mar in San Diego – fun way to spend the day.
Not going to lie – I’m not hugely interested in horse racing though I would go to the Derby just for the chance to dress up and wear a fun hat 😀 I love the social aspect and the atmosphere of these kind of events – thanks for the tips; will be aiming for the second floor if we manage a trip 🙂