The Kentucky Derby occurs the first Sunday in May and is the first step in the Triple Crown. The Derby is one of the foremost races for horse lovers and lovers of horse racing, and a birthday party around that time of year can be a hit for those that enjoy racing. A Kentucky Derby birthday party theme is perfect in the spring or any time of year for that person that loves to dabble in the races.
Decorations
The Kentucky Derby is often referred to as the Run for the Roses because of the blanket of roses placed on the winning horse. Decorate with a profusion of roses. Place them on the tables in vases, create arrangements of white and red roses on the food tables, and entwine silk roses with florist wire to make garlands to hang over windows and doors. Jockeys are well known for their colorful silk racing outfits. Purchase different colors of silk cut in squares and place them on tables covered with white table cloths so they create diamonds down the top of the table. Horse statues also make wonderful decorations sitting on the tables with roses placed around them. Use fine china and best silverware on the tables. The Derby is a sophisticated sport for many wealthy people who come dressed to the nines.
Beverages
The most famous drink at the Kentucky Derby is the Mint Julep. Make your own by using a simple sugar and water syrup, mint sprigs and some Kentucky whiskey. You can opt for a non-alcoholic version using lemonade or iced tea with mint infused into the mix.
Food
The wealthy patrons of the Derby may imbibe in finger food that includes cucumber sandwiches made of crustless bread, sliced cucumbers, cream cheese and a little dill or lemon pepper. A heartier meal may include bourbon glazed pork, grilled shrimp or other grilled delicacies. Finish it off with a birthday cake filled with red frosting roses, or try a southern pecan pie.
Games
Have women guests arrive wearing elaborately decorated, large hats. The tradition of dressing in good clothing and competing for the most elegant hat is a tradition at horse races. Have judges choose best hat that wins a prize. The Derby includes 20 horses in the race. Take 20 ping pong balls, make up interesting horses names and write them on the balls with a marker. Print up a sheet with the horse names in alphabetical order and give them to each guest. Place a bucket several feet away from a line marker. A broom or some yellow caution tape will do. Guests can make bets on which horse will win the game as 20 party patrons have a chance to throw the ball in the bucket. If more than one ball gets in the bucket, move it further away until only one “horse” wins. Another good game for a Kentucky Derby party is horseshoes.
Guests will have a great time with a Kentucky Derby birthday party theme. Mix elegance with the thrill of the race for the roses.
