Would you like to invite friends over to watch the Kentucky Derby but don’t want all the work of a full-blown party? We found sources for everything you need for a low-key yet festive event that can be delivered straight to your door.
Get ready by stocking up on the party essentials in our Kentucky Derby Party Kit. Everything on the list can be ordered online from Amazon, Instacart and other retailers. You won’t need to lift a finger–except to put a sprig of mint in the julep. T
The Run for the Roses, held on the first Saturday in May, is a great reason to invite a few friends over for Mint Juleps, snacks, and some serious (or silly) betting. Our Kentucky Darby Party Kit makes it easy:
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Mint Julep Cups
Mint Juleps can be serve in any type of glass but these cups say “Derby” and add a touch of terroir to the festivities. They don’t break, and when not filled with cocktails make lovely little vases. Klikel Mint Julep Cup with Classic beaded Trim Border Moscow Mule Kentucky Derby Julep Set of 2, $28.99 on Amazon.
Mint Julep Simple Syrup
Make the traditional Kentucky Derby cocktail, the Mint Julep, with two easy ingredients. Add this syrup to your bourbon of choice in a glass of crushed ice. Woodford Reserve® is the Presenting Sponsor of the Kentucky Derby®, “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports.” Its recipe for Mint Juleps calls for Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Mint Julep Simple Syrup, $16.00 for 16 oz. bottle on Amazon.com.
Bourbon Pecans
These Bourbon Pecans are caramelized in fresh sugar and bourbon for a smoky, sweet, buttery taste. They are perfect for snacking and as an accompaniment for cheese. $11.99 for an 8 oz. bag from Nuts.com.
Pawleys Island Original Homestyle Pimento Cheese
You have never had pimento cheese like this. Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese is an authentic, southern style pimento cheese spread made the old fashioned way with the perfect texture and quality ingredients. A staple at many Kentucky Derby parties. Sere with Ritz crackers and an assortment of vegetables. Available at some supermarkets and BJs Wholesale Club. Get it delivered by Instacart where available.
Modjeskas
This irresistible combination of a soft, deluxe marshmallow gem and a butter and cream caramel was created in late 19th century Louisville, Kentucky and named after a very famous Polish actress who appeared in Louisville several times in the 1880’s, Helena Modjeska. Yummy. The recipe was handed down to the Muth family, who continue to make this Kentucky favorite. Order a 14-count box of Caramel Modjeskas for $13.95 (plus shipping) from Muth’s Candies.
Pecan Pie
The chocolate pecan pie, aka the Kentucky Derby pie, was created by the Kern family in 1954, when they managed the Melrose Inn restaurant in Prospect, Kentucky. Trademarked 15 years later, the original version — which is still being produced to this day by Kern’s Kitchen in Louisville — has a dense chocolate-walnut filling baked in a traditional pie crust. You can order a Derby Pie from Kerns for $35 (plus shipping).
Or you can save a bundle and pick up a Marie Callender’s Southern Pecan Pie from your local supermarket, or–in keeping with hour home delivery promise–from Amazon, or delivered by Instacart and do as one Amazon buyer does: cover the entire pie with melted semi-sweet chocolate chips before heating it in the oven.
Fascinators
Join the women who are at the Derby by donning a flamboyant hat or fascinator while wearing your most comfortable stretchy pants. Amazon has a selection of fascinators in all colors of the rainbow, for around $12. Buy yours here.
Betting Slips
Bring more excitement to your Kentucky Derby Day by challenging your friends to a friendly round of betting. Hand out these win-place show betting slips and offer a prize to the winner. Maybe a box of Modjeskas? Derby Bets Cards are $13.99 on Amazon.
Derby Appetizer Picks
These horse race-themed food picks are ready to run for the roses on your Derby Day spread. Whether using them to garnish mint juleps or add Kentucky flair to your cheese plate, these party picks raise the stakes add a touch of Churchill Downs to your table. Pack of 50 for $19.99 on Amazon.
Jockey and Horse Legs Beverage Napkins
White napkins, adorned with charming horse and jockey legs prints. Crafted from high-quality, eco-friendly paper. Pack of 20 for $9.00 on Amazon.
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