The Kentucky Derby Provides The Perfect Backdrop To A Successful Party
The first Saturday in May hosts the finale to a two week long Derby Festival in Louisville, KY. Even those who don’t follow horse racing look forward to the first of the Triple Crown races, the Kentucky Derby. “The greatest two minutes in sports” spans one and a quarter miles and 135 years. Derby traditions create the perfect checklist for a party friends will remember fondly.
Roses were given to ladies present at early Derby parties. It is believed that the Derby president saw this and was inspired to make the red rose the official flower of the race. Early winners were presented a bouquet of roses, which became a garland for the horse in 1904. For your ‘Run for the Roses” party, adorn your space or provide your guests with the official flower.
A common party problem is deciding what beverages to serve. This is not a problem with a Derby themed party. Mint Juleps can be purchased by the bottle or made by you; it depends on your role as host. You don’t even have to buy special glasses as the mint julep cup was not designed until years after the drink became a Derby tradition. Don’t forget the mint garnish!
The Derby has always been a dressy event. In the 1960′s gloves went out of style, but bigger fancier hats came into fashion. A true Derby event should represent high fashion and even higher hats.
Both old and new, there are hundreds of racing appropriate songs across many genres. There is only one necessity, Stephen Foster’s “My Old Kentucky Home.” The University of Louisville marching band plays at Churchill Downs, and has for nearly a century. Don’t worry, the song can be found for purchase and download, a Kentucky band isn’t necessary.
Now you are ready for the first Saturday in May, and perhaps your first theme party. The Kentucky Derby is steeped in tradition, so why not make your own. Remember, when making friendly wagers over the race, almost three quarters of the races have been won by Kentucky horses. Coincidence?
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