Photo || Oh Happy Day
When most of us think of kicking off the summer, we usually think “Memorial Day”. If you’re like me, you get antsy anticipating the start of outdoor summer parties and BBQs.
Did you ever consider a Kentucky Derby party? The Derby this year is on May 6th for the 143rd Run for the Roses.
This is a really great theme party because it can be held outdoors, presents an opportunity for an interactive experience for your guests and you can do fancy or casual for guest attire and decor. When you have a big crowd over to watch a sporting event or movie, the challenge is finding a way that everyone has a great view. The worst is having a swarm of people huddling around a TV screen jockeying (see what I did there?) for a position up front so they can see. How about an outdoor movie screen? We know, it’s an awesome idea, right? Outdoor movie screen rentals ensure that everyone has an optimum view and you may be surprised at how little it costs. Any party, indoor or outdoor, that revolves around a TV program or movie can only be better with a big movie screen.
The Kentucky Derby is a really fun idea for a party and lends itself to so many cool ideas. You will want to decide what foods and drinks to serve, how you will decorate and how to handle friendly wagers (it is the Derby, after all!).
MENU
Food options can range from grilling dogs and burgers to full-blown buffet style dishes. You can also choose to just serve appetizers. There are traditional Kentucky Derby menu items you can serve:
- Mint Juleps
- Bourbon (any which way)
- Kentucky Hot Browns
- Beer Cheese
- Kentucky Burgoo (a hearty stew, made with…bourbon)
- Ham Biscuits
- Bourbon Balls
- Chocolate Bourbon Nut Pie (like we said, Bourbon!)
Inivtations
You can get really creative with your invitations for the party. You can have them custom made with the horse/Derby theme. You can even have them made up to resemble a racing program. Let your invitations set the tone of your party. Your invitations can let your guests know if it’s a formal event (it is the Kentucky Derby) or a less formal outdoor affair.
Decor
The Derby is also known as the Run for the Roses. So you can decorate with roses and you can do so without breaking the bank. Use them in small, tasteful centerpieces or to use them throughout the whole yard. Boxwoods and other greenery are a simple and elegant way to decorate the yard. You can also find silver plastic beverage cups that can mimic the traditional Mint Julep stainless steel cups. Hosts can go crazy with specialized options for Derby parties. Online party stores will offer paper plate and napkin options with the Derby logo. Little jockey hats can be purchased for guests to wear. The selections are limitless.
Betting
It’s the Kentucky Derby. Everyone bets on the Derby (don’t they?). You can make homemade win, place and show tickets for your “bettors”. For your winners, you can offer door prizes in lieu of cash winnings. The official Kentucky Derby site has a variety of paper products and other items for order with the Derby logo for a really authentic touch. You can even order official racing programs for your guests.
The Hats!
The Derby and ladies with crazy hats go hand-in-hand. Take this as another opportunity to engage your guests. Have them wear their craziest, biggest hats and offer prizes for different categories: most original, most colorful, most traditional, etc.
This is such a great party theme. You can take the elegant route with your decorations and menu or keep it informal, let your personality and guest list be your guide.
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