Planning the Perfect Derby Day Soirée!
- Evviva Events
- May 3, 2016
- 2 min read
It’s that time of year again, spring has sprung! That means it’s time to break out your colorful clothing! Especially in the South, southern ladies (and gentleman) love springtime. It means time to get out of the house and enjoy the sunshine and for most of you, Keeneland and Churchill Downs is all that’s on your mind! Whether you were born and bred in the South or are just learning that horse racing, Derby Day in particular, is one of the biggest and most fun social events of the year, here’s a quick checklist of what you need to think about for your horse themed soirée!
The “Fit” (outfit that is….)
Derby may be the only time of year where a hat is acceptable for you…the bigger the better is what we think! Whether it’s a huge colorful hat or a small fascinator, this is a must for the ladies! If you are going to the races (or not), it can be the biggest fashion show of the year! Gals, make yourself feel like a Barbie and wear something you may not wear on just any other occasion. Gentlemen, feel free to break out your Vineyard Vines or Southern Tide, just make sure to watch a You Tube video on how to tie a bowtie ;)! This also may be one of the only times when colorful suspenders are completely acceptable for you!
The Cocktails!
“Mint Juleps” (bourbon, simple syrup, fresh mint and lots of crushed ice) are a must! What we call “Kentucky Kool-Ade” (bourbon and Ale-8) is super southern too. If you aren’t a bourbon fan, try a “Pink Lily” (vodka, sweet & sour mix, cranberry juice and triplesec). If your horse wins the race then break out the champagne! Check out our Pinterest page for the perfect cocktail recipe!
The Spread!
Hot browns, burgoo and Derby Pie…oh my! Try any or all of these recipes, hit up our Pinterest page for more ideas! Remember, calories don’t count, just enjoy, and maybe wear a forgiving outfit!
The Décor!
If it’s nice outside, go out and get some vitamin D and play a friendly game of horseshoes or cornhole! Always incorporate décor with horses, horseshoes and red roses! Mason jars and mint julep cups are perfect for your beverages. Don’t forget…it’s all about the race so have a TV on close!
The Race!
For some of you, the Derby is all a social event but don’t forget the reason for Derby…betting! Make some fun games out of it whether you put money at stake or not!
Some fun facts about the Derby:
-This year will be the 142nd running of the Kentucky Derby!
-The Derby winner goes home with the purse of $2,000,000, a trophy worth $100,000 and a hand sewn garland of 400+ red roses!
-The fastest horse that ever ran the Derby was Secretariat in 1973 at 1 minute and 59 seconds.
-Only 3 female horses have ever won the Derby!
-The Kentucky Derby is also referred to as, “The Run for the Roses”.
-The race distance is 1 ¼ mile on a dirt track.
-20 horses race each year in the Kentucky Derby.
Happy Betting and Happy Planning!
Comments