Ahhh yes, the Kentucky Derby. The one day every year that my mom asks “do you think the horses like racing? I hope they do.”
While I’m not all that confident that horses love racing with a short human on their back, I am extremely confident that Kentucky Derby watch parties are some of the best parties of the year, and this year is certainly no exception.
Whether you’re looking for a more chill vibe to just sit and drink while watching the race or fully immerse yourself in the costumes and traditions, this list has you covered with the best places and events to take in all that the Kentucky Derby has to offer.
Eldorado Scioto Downs
6000 S High St, Columbus, OH 43207
What better way to celebrate the Kentucky Derby than watching it at an actual racetrack? Scioto downs will be offering delicious food, music, and even a car show on May 4th. Plus, you can place live wagers on the race (just don’t ask me for any gambling advice… I’m what they call “colder than the arctic”). Call 614-295-4756 to reserve your spot at Central Ohio’s very own horse track!
Fanatics Sportsbook Columbus
401 N. Front St, Columbus, OH 43215
How many TVs are too many TVs? Columbus’ Fanatics Sportsbook thinks you’re crazy for even asking the question. With massive TVs that span the entire space, plenty of seating options, and even leather recliners for your comfort, there’s no such thing as the best seat in the house — they’re all incredible! Plus, if you place a few wagers on the race, you’ll be honoring the time-tested tradition of losing money on horses you’ve never heard of before!
Hats, Bow Ties, & Derby Cocktails at Callahan’s Columbus
520 Park St, Columbus, OH 43215
Aside from the horse racing, the best part about the Kentucky Derby is all the incredible outfits. At Callahan’s, you can win a $100 gift card for either the best female hat, best male bowtie, or best dressed couple. Tickets are $45 and will get you 3 derby cocktails of your choice and a derby glass as a souvenir! The party goes from 4:30 PM – 10 PM, and tickets will go fast!
Get your tickets here.
The 8th Annual Columbus Derby Day at Lower.com Field
96 Columbus Crew Way, Columbus, OH 43215
Starting at 4 pm on May 4th, well-dressed guests will pour into Lower.com Field for an incredible Kentucky Derby event featuring tons of hor d’oeuvres, an open bar with top-shelf liquor, a performance by SWAGG, and tons of other surprises. The tickets are $150, which covers literally everything for the duration of the party.
Get your tickets here.
Derby Party 2024 at Merry Makers Club, Inc.
618 E. Spring St, Columbus, OH 43215
Complimentary beverages, colorful outfits, a Rib Man food truck, a horse race 50/50 raffle, a DJ, and so much more… Merry Makers Club will merrily make your Kentucky Derby day one to remember (as long as you don’t overdo the drinking portion of the day). Admission to the event is $60.
Get your tickets here.
7th Anniversary & Derby Party at Loose Rail Brewing
37 West Waterloo Street, Canal Winchester, OH 43110
This is surely one of the craziest Derby parties happening anywhere. Aside from a contest for the best Derby hat, best dressed, and best dressed couple (with prizes, of course), there will also be an hourly raffle for a chance to win merch, gift cards, and more. But why is it “the craziest Derby party?” Because the way you enter the raffle is by purchasing drinks at the bar, which means more drinks = more chances to win!
Reserve your spot for free here.
Did we miss one? Send us a note!
