Now in its 140th year, the Kentucky Derby (held on the first Saturday of May in Louisville, Kentucky) is one of the most popular sporting events in the country. This annual horse race is more than just a competition; the Derby has many festive traditions that continue to inspire people gathering together to party in style. Here in Boulder, you too can celebrate the Kentucky Derby festivities. So get your best spring outfit ready and find a lavish hat to adorn for this year’s celebration in the historic Mapleton Hill neighborhood.
On Saturday May 2nd, from 12:30 to 5pm, you can join fellow Boulder residents for a grand Kentucky Derby party. For the third year in a row, Boulder Lifestyle will be hosting its fabulous Kentucky Derby Party on Mapleton Hill. The magazine’s last two parties were wonderfully successful, and this upcoming bash sounds just as exciting.
Keeping with Derby tradition, you’ll get to enjoy specialty eats, drinks, and live music at this year’s party. In addition to the champagne, wine, and craft beer courtesy of Sanitas Brewing Co., you’ll also find plenty of Mint Juleps being served up at the bar. Consisting of bourbon, sugar, mint, and crushed ice, the Mint Julep has been the signature cocktail of the Kentucky Derby since the early 1930s. Guests with General Admission tickets will receive one complimentary drink (which includes the Mint Julep), while VIP guests have access to an open bar.
The party will also include Kentucky-inspired food from OAK at Fourteenth, one of Boulder’s finest restaurants. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served to all ticket holders, while full meals are reserved for VIP guests. Along with tasty bites and drinks, guests are also welcome to purchase premium cigars from Palma Cigars, who will be on the premises hand rolling them.
No Kentucky Derby party is complete without live music. The Colorado based four-piece band Grant Farm will be returning to the party this year and will be performing its original roots music—a blend of traditional American music that includes rock, country, and blues.
In addition to the delicious food, drinks, and lively music, there will also be a horse auction to commemorate the Derby. Proceeds from the auction, as well as event tickets, will benefit two great local charities: Attention Homes, which provides safe shelter and teaches life skills to at-risk youth, and There With Care, an organization providing support for children with critical illnesses.
The Kentucky Derby Party is definitely worth attending, if you’re fast enough to snag tickets! VIP tickets are sold out, but you can still purchase General Admission tickets for $35/person. GA guests can purchase $15 wristbands at the event for unlimited champagne, wine, and beer. Tickets are available online for those 21 and over, so make sure to grab them while they’re still on sale!