Updated November 2, 2026 · 6 min read
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Decorations kitFunnlot Derby Decorations, 71 pieces4.9★, 20+Check price on Amazon →Mint julep cupsReal Deal Steel Julep Cups, set of 44.7★, 270+Check price on Amazon →Buying on Amazon? Try Prime free for 30 days
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The Kentucky Derby is “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” and one of the easiest parties of the year to host: big hats, a pitcher of mint juleps, a few Southern bites and a fun pick-a-horse game. The 153rd Kentucky Derby is on Saturday, May 1, 2027 at Churchill Downs. Here are our party ideas, the decorations and drinkware worth buying, and what to wear.
Kentucky Derby party · 2027
Funnlot Kentucky Derby Party Decorations (71 pieces)
Run for the Roses banners, balloons, hanging swirls and cupcake toppers in one kit. Rated 4.9★ by early buyers.
Quick answer: what you need for a Derby party
- Decorations kitFunnlot Derby Decorations, 71 pieces · 4.9★, 20+
- Mint julep cupsReal Deal Steel Julep Cups, set of 4 · 4.7★, 270+
- FascinatorCizoe Flower and Feather Fascinator · 4.6★, 9,200+
- Wide-brim hatYIDINGCO Organza Derby Hat · 4.4★, 550+
- Men’s straw fedoraComhats Packable Straw Fedora · 4.4★, 1,800+
Kentucky Derby party ideas
- Run for the Roses theme. Red roses, green and gold, horseshoes and a “winner’s circle” photo spot.
- Mint juleps (and a mocktail). The classic Derby drink, served in metal julep cups over crushed ice.
- A hat contest. Ask guests to wear their boldest hat and vote for a winner.
- A pick-a-horse game. Write the horses’ names on slips once the field is set, and let each guest draw one. The guest with the winner gets a small prize.
- Southern food. Hot Brown sliders, pimento cheese, benedictine tea sandwiches and a chocolate-walnut pie.
- Time it right. TV coverage runs all afternoon, and the Derby itself goes off in the early evening Eastern time. Check the broadcast schedule that week.
The best Derby party gear in detail
Funnlot Kentucky Derby Party Decorations, 71 pieces
You need this if: you want the whole room done in one order.
- Includes2 banners, cake topper, 8 cupcake toppers, 30 balloons, 14 hanging swirls
- ThemeRun for the Roses
- Rating4.9★ (20+ ratings)
Why we recommend it: It is the most complete Derby kit we found, covering walls, ceiling and dessert table, and early buyers rate it very highly.
Keep in mind: It is a seasonal listing with few ratings so far. Order a few weeks early, as Derby decor sells out in late April.
Real Deal Steel Mint Julep Cups, set of 4 (12 oz)
You need this if: you want proper julep cups that frost over with crushed ice.
- MaterialPolished 18/8 stainless steel
- Size12 oz
- Set4 cups
- Rating4.7★ (270+ ratings)
Why we recommend it: Food-grade steel with a safe, rolled bottom edge, and a size that suits a classic julep or a mocktail. They look great on a tray and last for years.
Keep in mind: Metal cups get very cold; serve with a napkin or a straw.
What to wear to a Kentucky Derby party
Women: a spring dress in a bright color or floral print, and the star of the outfit, a big hat or fascinator. Men: a seersucker or linen jacket, pastel shirt, bow tie and a straw hat. Comfortable shoes help if your party is outdoors on grass.
Cizoe Fascinator Hat with Flower and Feathers
You need this if: you want Derby style without a huge brim.
- StyleFlower, mesh and feathers
- WearClip and headband
- Rating4.6★ (9,200+ ratings)
Why we recommend it: One of the most-reviewed fascinators on Amazon, in many colors, with a clip and a headband so it stays put.
Keep in mind: Pick a color to match your dress; colors vary by listing.
YIDINGCO Organza Derby Hat
You need this if: you want the classic big Derby hat that also shades your face.
- StyleWide organza brim with feather and flower
- ExtraSun protection
- Rating4.4★ (550+ ratings)
Why we recommend it: A dramatic, lightweight hat that works for a Derby party, a garden wedding or a tea party.
Keep in mind: Wide brims can blow off outdoors; a hat pin helps on windy days.
Comhats Packable Straw Fedora
You need this if: you want an easy, packable straw hat to go with a light jacket.
- StyleShort-brim straw fedora
- FitAdjustable band, sizes up to XXL
- Rating4.4★ (1,800+ ratings)
Why we recommend it: A popular, well-rated straw fedora that is easy to pack and fits larger heads.
Keep in mind: Check the size chart; measure your head first.
How to make a mint julep
- Gently press 8 to 10 mint leaves with a little simple syrup in the bottom of a julep cup.
- Fill the cup with crushed ice.
- Add about 2 ounces of bourbon and stir until the cup frosts.
- Top with more crushed ice and a mint sprig.
Mocktail version: swap the bourbon for iced tea or ginger ale with a squeeze of lemon. Please drink responsibly.
Kentucky Derby 2027 at a glance
- Kentucky Oaks: Friday, April 30, 2027.
- Kentucky Derby: Saturday, May 1, 2027 (the 153rd running).
- Where: Churchill Downs, Louisville, Kentucky.
See our Kentucky Derby 2027 guide for the full schedule and what to bring if you are going in person.
Related guides
- Kentucky Derby 2027: date, Oaks Day and what to bring
- Outdoor projectors for watching the race
- Coolers for drinks and ice
- Game-day party essentials
- Sports calendar 2026–2027
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Got questions?
Frequently asked questions
When is the 2027 Kentucky Derby?
Saturday, May 1, 2027, at Churchill Downs in Louisville. The Kentucky Oaks is the day before, Friday, April 30.
What do you need for a Kentucky Derby party?
Run for the Roses decorations, mint julep cups, crushed ice, bourbon or a mocktail, Southern snacks, a TV, and a hat contest or pick-a-horse game.
What should I wear to a Kentucky Derby party?
Women usually wear a spring dress and a big hat or fascinator. Men wear a light jacket, pastel shirt, bow tie and a straw hat.
What is the traditional Kentucky Derby drink?
The mint julep: bourbon, mint, simple syrup and crushed ice, served in a metal julep cup.
What food do you serve at a Derby party?
Hot Brown sliders, pimento cheese, benedictine sandwiches, ham biscuits and a chocolate-walnut pie are classic choices.
What time does the Kentucky Derby start?
The Derby is usually run in the early evening Eastern time after a full afternoon of races. Check the TV schedule the week of the race.
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