This week is one long party with Cinco de Mayo and now the Kentucky Derby and Mother’s Day. Kentucky Derby parties can be quick to throw together. They are basically a cocktail party with hats! I put together a roundup of some quick and easy ideas to put your Kentucky Derby Party together tonight!
They keys are hats, horses, roses and bourbon!
Let’s start with roses. Of course you can buy red roses for your décor, but if you are looking for some additional ideas, I gathered up a few.
This crepe paper rose garland from the nest is cute and looks easy to duplicate. String a couple over the food and drink tables.
How adorable would this Run for the Roses Wreath be to great your guests at the front door? Full instructions via the link above or on She’s Kinda Crafty.
Now on to Hats! Anyone can buy a hat, so I looked for some fun ways to incorporate hats into your décor!
I love how complicated these Derby Hat Drink Stirrers look, but are in fact super easy to DIY. Full instructions via the link or on Pizzazzerie.com.
Have extra hats lying around? Set up a selfie station with them and some other fun props for your guests to take party pics!
Now on to the bourbon!
What’s the Kentucky Derby without bourbon? Create a mini bourbon tasting area with a variety of bourbons. And what Derby party would be complete without mint juleps?
Here’s the recipe for THE Derby drink, the Mint Julep!
Muddle together a few sprigs of fresh Mint, 2 teaspoons water, 1.5 teaspoons powdered sugar.
Fill glass with ice. Add 2.5 oz of Bourbon and enjoy!
No silver julep cups? No worries, buy silver cups at the party store. (Party City also has some Derby themed paper products).
Now why we are all here, the horses! Horseshoes are a definite if the weather is good.
You can always bet on the race for real, but here’s some games you can play to pass the time for the non-gamblers.
A printable of these super fun Derby Bingo cards is available via the link or on Bakinbit.com. She has prefilled ones or blank, so you can make your own.
Favors are also a great way to celebrate the Derby. I love these horse necklaces from the Polka Dot Chair.
Want more Kentucky Derby Party ideas? Check out my Pinterest board here.
Are you having a party? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
very nice ideas, I love the garland brings so much colour.
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