30+ Derby Parties & Events to Attend in Louisville
Enjoy the glitz, glamour & fun at these 30+ Kentucky Derby-themed parties and events.
There is plenty to celebrate at the track during the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby with cheering on your favorite horse and sipping Mint Juleps, but the celebrating doesn’t stop there. In the days leading up to the races, show off your Derby finest at any of these upcoming parties, brunches & concerts happening around town that will get you in the Derby spirit.
(Please note that this list is current at the time of publication. We will update as we learn of events.)
April 11 | Gallop Gala, Galt House Hotel
Ignite the night at the annual Gallop Gala benefiting Down Syndrome of Louisville. Dine on a fine dinner while taking a chance on a high-end bourbon pull, silent auction and live auction. Dance the evening away to the sounds of local favorites The Crashers, who have performed on David Letterman, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, MTV and more.
April 15 | Taste of Derby Festival, Louisville Slugger Field
This is the 24th year for the Taste of Derby Festival event, which features signature dishes from more than 75 of Louisville’s finest restaurants and beverage companies.
April 22 | Woodford Reserve Derby Bourbon Dinner, The Cafe
Enjoy a multi-course bourbon dinner experience at The Café hosted by renowned Woodford Reserve Master Distiller, Elizabeth McCall. Throughout the evening, Elizabeth will offer captivating stories, unique insights, and a deeper appreciation for the nuances of each bourbon, providing an exclusive look into the artistry behind Woodford Reserve’s distinguished craft.
April 26 | Kentucky Derby Museum Ball, Kentucky Derby Museum
Begin the evening with cocktails and appetizers at Churchill Downs’ exclusive Homestretch Club before heading to the Kentucky Derby Museum for a seated dinner on the Oaks Terrace. Then dance the night away to live music at the Backstretch Dance Party in the Great Hall along with a showing of the immersive film, The Greatest Race.
April 26 | The Great Gatsby - A Louisville Legacy, Churchill Downs
Opening night at this historic track is set to be the cat’s meow. Step back in time and channel the spirit of the Roaring Twenties with a Great Gatsby-inspired evening of glitz and glamour. Louisville served as the muse for one of literature’s most dazzling tales, its rich layers of history and allure woven seamlessly into the story. Don your swankiest 1920s attire and join us for an unforgettable affair that kicks off a week brimming with excitement, celebration, and timeless tradition.
April 26 | The Kentucky Bourby, Progress Park
Sip bourbon samples from local distilleries, nosh on delicious appetizers, enjoy live music, participate in race raffles, and much more at Progress Park. NEAT Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop will provide a vintage bourbon experience, History by the Pour, along with a Cigar Bar hosted J. Shepherd Cigars.
April 27 | Mayor’s Derby Brunch on the River, Riverside: The Farnsley-Moreman Landing
Come out and enjoy a festive brunch featuring a traditional Kentucky breakfast, live music, horse-drawn carriage rides and tours of the Farnsley-Moremen property!
April 30 | Biscuits & Bourbon, Kentucky Derby Museum
Jump start your day at the track with a southern-inspired brunch at the Kentucky Derby Museum with live music and a menu with mimosa , bourbon, and decadent breakfast goodies like a biscuit bar AND a french toast bar await you. After brunch, head next door to historic Churchill Downs to enjoy a day at the races.
April 30 | Rabbit Run, Rabbit Hole Distillery
Join Rabbit Hole Distillery for Rabbit Run, a dazzling kickoff to Derby week! Immerse yourself in a night of bold artistry, captivating performances, and elevated hors d’oeuvres, all paired with Rabbit Hole’s signature bourbons. Set against the stunning backdrop of Louisville’s most iconic distillery, this is an evening you won’t want to miss!
April 30 | Louisville Urban League Derby Gala, Norton Sports & Learning Center
The Louisville Urban League is proud to present the 8th Annual Derby Gala, the most prestigious event of the year. Grammy-nominated artist Janelle Monáe will headline the gala in 2025!
May 1 | Taste of Derby, Kentucky International Convention Center
Held at the Kentucky International Convention Center, enjoy a night sampling wine and dishes from celebrity and award-winning chefs. This annual sell-out event showcases more than 60 local restaurants, bourbon distilleries and beverage companies.
May 1 | Kentucky Derby 150 Kick-Off Dinner with Woodford Reserve & Verite Wines, Omni Hotel
Join us in grandeur with an exquisite dinner that defines opulence with a high-end 4-course seated dining experience crafted by Executive Chef Thomas Hiestand, where each course is meticulously paired with prestigious Vérité Wine, boasting a perfect 100-point rating.
May 1 | Kentucky Derby Sunset Social, Hermitage Farm
Spend the evening at historic Hermitage Farm for an exclusive culinary event to start your Kentucky Derby. Before enjoying a three-course Southern meal, take a sunset tour of the horse farm and stop by the build-your-own Mint Julep bar to create your version of the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby.
May 1 | Derby Experiences Welcome Party, Kentucky Derby Museum
Spend the evening immersing yourself in the rich history and traditions of the Kentucky Derby at the Derby Experiences Welcome Party. This kickoff event blends the best of Southern hospitality and Derby decadence to usher you into a weekend full of once-in-a-lifetime memories.
May 1 & 2 | Derby Week Concert Series, Fourth Street Live
- April 30: Tyler Rich
- May 1 & 2: Dylan Marlowe
- May 2: Two Friends
- May 3: VAVO
May 2 | 12th Annual Oaks Brunch, Omni Hotel
Mint Juleps, mimosas, and meeting Woodford Reserves Master Distiller (plus other special guests) await you at one of the most coveted brunches of the last decade at the Omni Hotel before heading to Churchill Downs to cheer on the fillies racing for the lilies.
May 2 | 5th Annual Kegs & Eggs, Lou Lou on Market
Start your Oaks Day at the Lou Lou on Market's 5th Annual Kegs and Eggs. Creating a Cafe "Lou" Monde-vibe with breakfast, blues, beignets, and Bloody Marys.
May 2 | 2nd Annual Oaks Day Brunch, Conrad-Caldwell House Museum
The Conrad-Caldwell House Museum is the perfect Gilded Age setting for a Southern brunch celebrating the 151st Kentucky Oaks. Sip on Mint Julep and Oaks Lily’s while listening to live music or cheering on the live coverage of the races at Churchill Downs are few blocks away.
May 2 | 4th Annual Oaks Day Brunch, Clayton & Crume
Kick-off Derby Weekend at Clayton & Crume's Flagship store with a unique 4-course brunch accompanied by bourbon cocktails and tastings from Marker's Mark. The brunch will be upstairs in the historic building that was once home to Muhammad Ali's former gym.
May 2 | Oaks Day Watch Party, Omni Hotel
See and be seen at this premium watch party for the 151st running of the Kentucky Oaks. Gather with friends and sip on handcrafted cocktails while DJ Z-Nyce and DJ Reece create a musical atmosphere.
May 2 | Fillies & Lilies, Kentucky Derby Museum
As the official kickoff party of the Kentucky Derby, the Fillies & Lilies Party takes over the Kentucky Derby Museum with live musical performances, gourmet food, and a private bourbon lounge making it the place to be start your Derby weekend.
May 2 | Unbridled Eve Gala, Galt House Hotel
With all the Southern charm, grace, glamour, and hospitality on aplenty, the annual Unbridled Eve Gala takes place at the Galt House Hotel and is one of the most anticipated events of the Kentucky Derby weekend for locals, celebrities, and horse racing fanatics.
May 2 | American Lung Association 30th Anniversary Derby Eve Gala, Seelbach Hilton Hotel
You will feel like you stepped back in time once you set foot inside the historic Seelbach Hotel for the Derby Eva Gala in the Medallion Ballroom. Help raise money for research while enjoying a gourmet dinner, signature cocktails, and dancing the night away to live music.
May 2 | Old Forester Oaks Night Dinner, Hotel Bourré Bonne
The Old Forester Oaks Night Dinner presented by LoveShackFancy is an ode to Southern elegance, a Derby Eve soirée where fashion, flavor, and fête collide in the most effortlessly glamorous way. The four course seated dinner will feature elevated Stonestreet Winery wines while cocktail hour will be a playful array of craft cocktails.
May 2 | Silks Bash Derby Eve, Historic Locust Grove
This annual fundraising party is held on the eve of one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world—the Kentucky Derby. Known for its glamour and entertainment, the event draws in celebrities, athletes, philanthropists, and many more to support a charitable cause while dancing the night away to live musical entertainment.
May 2 | Barnstable Brown Gala, Barnstable Brown Residence
Started by two Louisville twin sisters, who were the Doublemint Twins in commercials during the 1970s, the Barnstable Brown Gala on Derby Eve is the “premier” black-tie/star-studded bash that has been welcoming celebrities and VIP’s for over 30 years. With music from well-known artists, guests have a chance to rub shoulders with celebrities throughout the evening. (Tip: Can’t get a ticket to the event but want to see the celebrities arrive? Join the locals who line the streets near the house in the Highlands to welcome the celebrities and VIP’s as they arrive.)
May 2 | Revel at the Races, Ice House
Hosted by Sports Illustrated, this late-night concert will feature a performance by Diplo and special guest Xandra, at downtown Louisville's Ice House.
May 2 & 3 | 6th Annual Derby Club & Coterie, Omni Hotel Library Bar
Your Kentucky Derby experience will never be the same. Purchase your tickets now to enjoy this private house lounge during Derby weekend if you need a spot to watch the races or a place to meet up with friends before heading to the track.
May 3 | 3rd Annual Derby Breakfast with Woodford Reserve, Omni Hotel
Begin your Derby morning with sophistication as you enjoy cocktails in the historic library bar at Omni Hotel, accompanied by passed hors d'œuvres and live music. Following this, relish a 4-course seated breakfast in the stunning library bar of Omni Hotel. The Derby Breakfast by Makers House™ promises to continue a unique Kentucky Derby morning tradition, showcasing signature Woodford Reserve Bourbon cocktails, Jackson Family fine wines, live music, and an elegant seated breakfast experience.
May 3 | 46th Annual Derby Breakfast, Farmington Historic Home
Begin your Derby Day on the right hoof at the 46th Annual Derby Breakfast presented by Blade & Bow and the Kentucky Historic Home Foundation at historic Farmington. Indulge in a Kentucky-proud brunch featuring locally sourced food, bourbon cocktails, and live music. (Fun fact: Abraham Lincoln spent three weeks at Farmington as a guest of Joshua Speed, who was later appointed Attorney General by Lincoln).
May 3 | Derby Day Brunch, House of Marigold
Book a Derby Day reservation at House of Marigold, where seasonal comfort food, Southern hospitality, and stylish vibes meet over craft cocktails, coffee, and elevated breakfast and lunch.
May 3 | Derby Day Garden Party, Paristown
Join us on Derby day in the heart of Paristown, where the spirit and excitement of the Kentucky Derby comes alive. Watch all the races and place your bets with insights from live handicappers, savor the taste of local cuisine, indulge in signature Derby cocktails, and enjoy live bluegrass music in between races. Grab your tickets for exclusive access to Christy's Garden and Brent Street, promising an unforgettable Derby Day celebration.
May 3 | Derby Day Brunch, Hermitage Farm
Experience Kentucky elegance on the historic grounds of Hermitage Farm for an unforgettable day of festivities on Derby Day with a brunch prepared by the Barn 8 culinary team, live music, tours of the thoroughbred farm, exclusive access to Hermitage Farm’s renowned racing facilities, and a chance to meet retired horses who reside on the farm.
May 3 | Kappa Derby Day Party, Mellwood Art Center
Finish your Derby experience with an elegant evening hosted by the Louisville Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., with entertainment, cocktails, culinary goodies, and special activities throughout the night.
May 3 | Derby Day Brunch, High Stakes Rooftop Grill
Before heading to the track for the fastest two minutes in sports, enjoy a tasty brunch with skyline views at the High Stakes Grill at the Tempo Hotel.
May 3 | Winner’s Party, Kentucky Derby Museum
After they have won the garland of roses at the Kentucky Derby, see the new Derby champion crowned at the Winner’s Party with appearances by the winning jockey, owner and trainer.
May 4 | Derby Weekend Sunday Brunch, Brown Hotel
Finish up your Derby Weekend in dining style in the world-renowned Crystal Ballroom at the Brown Hotel enjoying a delightful Sunday brunch.
May 4 | Derby Recovery Brunch, High Stakes Rooftop Grill
Recover at High Stakes Grill after a weekend of Derby-related festivities! Mimosa specials, Bloody Mary specials, and an amazing Brunch Menu!
Planning to host your own Kentucky Derby soiree? Click here for party planning suggestions, from recipes and cocktails to fashion and picking your favorite horse.
To find more events taking place around town during the Derby season (including Thunder Over Louisville viewing parties), check out our event calendar.