“The most exciting two minutes in sports,” aka the Kentucky Derby, is coming up this weekend, and Northern Kentucky is hosting plenty of celebrations.
Don your biggest, floppiest, most ribbon-covered hat, grab a mint julep and watch the annual horse race held at Churchill Downs in Louisville. This long-held Kentucky tradition known as “The Run for the Roses” is the first leg of the Triple Crown racing series.
While the actual event is held a little further south, Northern Kentucky still knows how to celebrate with loads of soirees happening all around the area.
Read on to find a Derby event in your area:
Run for the Roses at Newport on the Levee
Head over to the Levee for fun for the whole family. There will be caricature portraits and a magician, plus live music and a betting station, with all proceeds going to The Brighton Center. Sip on a mint julep, beer or other cocktails at the Bridgeview Box Park. Many Levee restaurants, bars and shops will also be offering discounts and specials, find that list at newportonthelevee.com. Saturday, May 6, 4-8 p.m.
Mount Up! Kentucky Derby Party at Second Story
Newly opened Second Story cocktail bar is hosting a Derby party with “elevated” versions of the classic Derby cocktails. Catch the race and enjoy a live brass band and snack of some locally sourced food, plus “Sinful Derby Pie” for dessert. Saturday, May 6. 3-7 p.m. ticketed, 8 p.m. -close open to everyone. Tickets are $25.
Braxton Brewing 2023 Kentucky Derby Day!
Braxton Brewing in Covington is hosting a Derby party for the ages. Guests can enjoy craft beer as well as cocktails like the traditional Derby mint julep. There will also be a DJ, giveaways, contests and more entertainment. Saturday, May 6. Doors open at 11 a.m.
The Race by the Roebling: Kentucky Derby Watch Party at Smoke Justis
Enjoy food, cocktails, and, of course, lots of bourbon at the Smoke Justis Derby watch party. Food specials, contests and giveaways will be available at the event. Saturday, May 6, 3-7 p.m. Tickets are $40.
149th annual Kentucky Derby Party at Turfway Park Racing & Gaming
Tickets include brunch and dinner plus beer, wine and cocktails. There will be multiple TVs available, as well as betting, hat contests and more. Saturday, May 6. Doors open at 10 a.m. The event is 21+. Ticket prices vary.
Fourth Annual Kentucky Derby Party at Three Spirits Tavern
Jam out to live music at the Three Spirits Tavern in Bellevue for their fourth annual Derby party. Wear your best Derby hat and stop by to sip in a mint julep. Saturday, May 6, 6-10 p.m.