When I think of Kentucky I never picture it as the “South” because it’s just over the border from my great state of Ohio, one of 7 states that borders Kentucky. But when I go there, I definitely feel I have entered the South. I love the rolling hills and green pastures of horse country. It’s so scenic and serene.
Kentucky’s biggest party of the year is the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Down. It is always held on the first Saturday in May. Since it’s considered Southern, who better to turn to than Southern Living for some guidance on what to wear if you are going to the Derby.
It’s all About the Derby Hat
The closest thing I have to compare a party with large beautiful hats was my friend’s wedding in Ireland. The Irish women walked in to church with some stunning hats. It was quite the experience.
I love the tradition of the Kentucky Derby with the women wearing hats. It’s so elegant and chic. For those of you that are lucky enough to go to the Derby, Southern Living has a great Head-to-Toe Kentucky Derby Fashion Guide.
Host a Kentucky Derby Party
Who doesn’t love a reason to party? It would be fun to throw a Derby Party at home, where guests can gather and watch the race on tv. It’s a quick race (known as The Two Greatest Minutes in Sports) so admiring everyone’s Derby clothes, enjoying special cocktails and delicious food will be just as important as watching the horse race!
Kentucky Derby Party Invitations
If you want to have a party, you will need to get on the ball and order your invitations! Check out The Invitation Shop’s great paper collection. If you prefer, you can also do online invitations. There is a sample below from Evite.
Derby Cocktails
It wouldn’t be a Derby Party without the classic Mint Juleps. This stunning photo and recipe can be found at Camille Styles. Mint Juleps can be served on a formal silver tray as shown above or less formal such as the wicker tray below.
Derby Pecans
I found this recipe for Derby Pecans at The Savory Pantry. It would be the perfect accompaniment with the Mint Juleps. I love serving individual portions in shot glasses!
Benedictine Teas Sandwiches in the Shape of Horseshoes
Aren’t these tea sandwiches in the shape of a horseshoe clever? They will be a show stopper at your Derby Party! I found them at Tea Time Magazine. Too cute!
Date, Walnut, & Coconut Bourbon Balls
I have always loved Bourbon Balls and this one from Bon Appétit sounds delicious with coconut and dates.
Ingredients
Servings: Makes about 12
- 9 ounces pitted dates, coarsely chopped
- 1 cup unsweetened flaked organic coconut plus more for rolling
- 1 1/2 cups walnuts
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1 tablespoon natural unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Preparation:
Place dates and 3 tablespoons boiling water in a bowl; let steep for 3 minutes. Transfer to a food processor; add 1 cup coconut and next 4 ingredients and pulse until a chunky mixture forms.
Using a teaspoon, form rounded balls and roll in remaining coconut to completely coat. Place on a baking sheet and chill until cool and set, at least 15 minutes or overnight.
Bring to room temperature before serving.
Recipe by Marissa Lippert; Photograph by Nicole Franzen
Classic Kentucky Derby Menu
Classic dishes to serve at a Kentucky Derby party include Kentucky Hot Browns (or Baby Hot Browns if you prefer appetizer size), Bourbon-Marinated Pork Tenderloin, and Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie. All of these recipes can be found on Southern Living’s Kentucky Derby Party Recipes.
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail
If you are going to the Kentucky Derby, it would be a great side trip to tour the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. My husband did the Trail with a half dozen friends and enjoyed it so much I wrote a post on it.
If you are hosting a party, set out a variety of Bourbon and do your own Bourbon tasting.
Enjoy!
I love hats and love the idea of putting a party together for something fun. Maybe I will do that in the fall. Thanks for all the ideas!
What a fun party idea! And wins the”best title of a post ever” award!
Thanks Lydia. Did you watch the Derby?