This post will show you 10 Kentucky derby drinks for you to make on race day. Many of the recipes call for Kentucky bourbon including the famous Mint Julep. The founder of Churchill Downs was said to have brought the drink to the race made with mint he grew behind the club, which then grew into an annual tradition and the first julep collector cups were introduced at the Kentucky Derby in 1939.
May is well-known as the month of Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, but it’s also synonymous with another major event: the Kentucky Derby race, the Thoroughbred horse race that has been hosted by Churchill Downs continuously since 1875.
The 2024 Kentucky Derby will be the 150th Run for the Roses and is set for Saturday, May 4. Twenty horses are set to compete in the race.
When talking about the Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep drink is almost as famous as Churchill Downs’ TwinSpires.
Long ago, people started drinking Mint Juleps at the track during the first Kentucky Derby in 1875. But it wasn’t until 1939 that they became the official drink of the event. The idea came when they saw that visitors liked the fancy traditional silver julep cup the juleps came in and were taking them home, so instead of stopping them, they started selling these glasses as souvenirs. They’ve been doing it ever since.
Even though the classic Mint Julep—made with bourbon, mint, sugar, and ice in a special Kentucky Derby glass—is still a favorite, there are other tasty options for you to enjoy during the races, no matter where you are.
Let’s talk about these drinks. The The Kentucky Oaks Lily Drink, which is the special drink of the Kentucky Oaks. It’s a pretty pink cocktail made with vodka, lime juice, triple sec, and cranberry juice, served in a special glass and garnished with a blackberry and lemon wedge.
If you like the taste of bourbon mixed with refreshing spring flavors, try the Woodford Spire from Woodford Reserve, the main sponsor of the Kentucky Derby. It’s made with Woodford Reserve bourbon, lemonade, and cranberry juice, served over crushed ice in a special cup. You can also make it without alcohol if you prefer.
If you’re having a Derby-at-Home party, here’s a tip: make big batches of these drinks and set up a self-serve station with mint and fruits for guests to add to their drinks.
No matter which Kentucky Derby drink you pick, they’re all delicious. Whether you’re at Churchill Downs or watching from home, these drinks are a great way to celebrate the excitement of the Kentucky Derby. So get your friends together, put on your fanciest hats, and let’s cheers to the Kentucky Derby!