Kentucky Derby Parties in Phoenix

Click here for the 2019 list of Kentucky Derby Parties.

Whether you like horse racing or not, the Kentucky Derby has become a wildly popular event to celebrate. Named “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” The Kentucky Derby has given us a reason to gather with friends and wear fabulously fun hats. Check out some of the Kentucky Derby parties taking place on May 7th here in the Phoenix and Scottsdale areas.

Bourbon Steak

“The most exciting two minutes in sports” will be celebrated in grand Southern style at Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess with a Kentucky Derby brunch and lawn party, 1 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Saturday, May 7, 2016. Inspired by “Millionaire’s Row” at Churchill Downs, each guest will enjoy the traditions of the Derby atmosphere, including frosty mint juleps, live blues music, Bulleit Bourbon tastings and activities on the “Winner’s Circle” lawn. Bourbon Steak’s Kentucky Derby Brunch is $95 per person, plus tax and service charge. Reservations are suggested by calling 480.585.2694. Tickets may also be purchased at the door.

Bevvy

Housed in the heart of Scottsdale’s entertainment district, the Bevvy is hosting a blowout Kentucky Derby party on Saturday, May 7, 2016. Get in on all the action with onsite off-track-betting, as well as watch (and hear) the race on the 30-plus flat-screen TVs. There will also be Derby-themed festivities, including contests for “Best Hat” and “Best Dressed” (male & female). Bevvy will be expanding their patios into a “Woodford Lounge,” which will contain extra seating and mobile bars. Plus, in celebration of the Derby, the Bevvy will be mixing up special Kentucky Derby Cocktails for the day featuring Woodford Reserve bourbon These reserve cocktails are specials for the Derby and include the official drink of the Derby, the Classic Mint Julep, plus unique julep variations including Candied Julep and Enchanted Julep. For reservations, contact 602-628-7614.

The Phoenician

The Phoenician Resort will host a signature viewing party for the 142nd Run for the Roses on the Orchid Lawn, 1-4pm on May 7th. The afternoon will feature classic, Southern-style cuisine; a best hat contest for the ladies; best Southern fashion for the gentlemen; a winner’s circle raffle and a complimentary, personalized engraving for each purchased bottle of Woodford Reserve Kentucky Bourbon. Guests will also receive two complimentary drink tickets and a keepsake cup. A portion of the proceeds will benefit After the Homestretch – Arizona, providing forever homes for former racehorses. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet and take photos with one of the organization’s four-legged members. Admission is $75 per person, reservations are required by calling 480.423.2530.

Kelly’s at Southbridge

On May 7th, stop by Kelly’s at Southbridge for their viewing party and enjoy classic Jim Beam Mint Juleps and refreshing champagne while you cheer on your favorite horse. Dress for the occasion, as Kelly’s will be giving away prizes for the best Kentucky Derby inspired hat.

Padre Murphy’s

On Saturday, May 7 at 8:30 a.m., one of the Valley’s premier off-track betting destinations, Padre Murphy’s, will be opening their doors early for a Derby Day celebration. Beginning with breakfast (served until 11:30 a.m.), the festivities include a variety of drink specials (think: mint juleps and peach mimosas), off-track betting, a live telecast of the 142nd Kentucky Derby (airing from 1 – 4:30 p.m. MST) on 90+ TVs and a Derby Day hat contest at 2 p.m. All participants in the contest will receive a special prize, however the winner will receive a $100 happy hour at Padre Murphy’s, second place will a $50 gift card to Gaston Jewelry Store and third place receives a dozen red roses.

Turf Paradise

Turf Paradise is once again hosting a Kentucky Derby Party on May 7th, with both a live simulcast of the Kentucky Derby and watch and wager on live horse racing. The day also features a fashion contest, live music, a kids’ fun park, and free commemorative Derby glasses to the first 5,000 paid admissions. It’s everything you’d expect at a premiere Kentucky Derby party from Mint Juleps to big hats and it’s also the only place in Arizona where you can watch and wager on the Derby while enjoying local, live horse racing at the same time. Grandstand Admission is $5.00, kids 16 and under get in free. For those wanting to kick it up a notch, there are all day buffets in the air conditioned comfort of Turf’s Directors’ Suite, Turf Club, and Club House for $70 per person.