4 Fun Ways to Celebrate the Kentucky Derby at Home

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

See recent posts by Caroline Morse Teel

Last year, the iconic Kentucky Derby horse race was run in September without any fans in attendance. This year, the race is back to its traditional date on the first Saturday in May (this year, it’s on May 1), with about half the number of fans as usual attending in-person.

If you’re stuck at home, but still looking for an excuse to drink bourbon and wear a fun hat, there are plenty of ways you can celebrate the Kentucky Derby virtually this year.

Take a Free Virtual Cooking Class

You can still eat like you’re at the Kentucky Derby’s VIP section even if you’re just watching the race from your couch. The Kentucky Derby has released their official menu, along with step-by-step recipes, to help you create your own feast at home.

For some of the recipes, Churchill Downs Executive Chef David Danielson is hosting free virtual cooking classes that you can stream before the race. Danielson will teach you how to make chicken nuggets with Kentuckyaki glaze or pulled pork sliders with peach and vidalia onion chutney. Or, take a cocktail class with Bourbon Ambassador Tim Knittel who will teach you how to make a Woodford Reserve Spire and a classic Mint Julep.

Stock up on Woodford Reserve (the official drink of the Kentucky Derby) here.

Enter to Win a Trip to the 2022 Kentucky Derby

Want to see the action in-person next year? Enter here to win a trip to the 2022 Kentucky Derby, along with VIP tickets and $5,000 towards your travel.

Decorate Your Place and Yourself

Table with photo booth props — Betsy | Adobe Stock

The Kentucky Derby is a great excuse to buy a new hat, seersucker suit, or festive outfit. Or, just brighten things up in your house by putting up a few decorations. You could even set up your phone on a tripod and create a fun selfie station (with props) to show off your Kentucky Derby look.

Play Some Games

The Kentucky Derby has a list of free games that you can play, including other things you can wager on aside from the winner. (Feel free to wager anything from money to candy to keep things light.) Or, order some fun Kentucky Derby-themed games from Amazon, like scratch-off cards, a selfie scavenger hunt, or pin the tail on the horse, along with some prize bags for the winners.

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