Where to Watch the 2016 Kentucky Derby in Denver
Colorado is horse country, which is why Denver enjoys the Kentucky Derby so much. It is also an excuse to get dressed up in our new spring outfits and party hats and do some outdoor drinking. On Saturday, May 7, Denverites will be glued to TVs all over town to see which horse will win the Run for the Roses. Below are a few fun places to watch with a drink — remember that the race is scheduled for 4:34 PM local time.
Denver Derby Party
One of the largest derby events held outside of Kentucky, the Denver Derby Party is also a huge fundraiser. Held on the green lawn of the Denver Performing Arts Complex at 14th and Curtis Streets, the 15th annual Denver Derby Party is the best place to show off those hats and drink a refreshing Mint Julip. There will also be live music, DJs and both indoor and outdoor spaces where you can mix and mingle along with photographers taking plenty of party photos. Dress to impress. Early bird tickets are $130 for GA and $280 for VIP. All tickets are all-inclusive and include all food, drink, and plenty of TVs to watch the race. VIP tickets include a special no-wait express entrance, upgraded drinks and catered food, separate VIP washrooms, and a tent with JumboTron TV. The party starts at 1 PM and tickets can be purchased online. Tickets sold out last year, so get them early. Proceeds will benefit the Sean Ranch Lough Scholarship Fund. (Denver Performing Arts Complex, 14th & Curtis St.)
Bar Car
At the Bar Car’s “Talk Derby to Me!” Party, guests can enjoy mint juleps, games and prizes, a best hat contest, delicious food, and live music. Tickets are $10 per person to get into the outdoor Derby tent. The party starts at 1 PM, and proceeds from the day will benefit the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphona Society. (819 Colorado Blvd.; 720-524-8099)
The Celtic Tavern
Watch (and bet on) the Kentucky Derby at The Celtic Tavern's Derby Party. Enjoy Mint Julep specials and a live band all afternoon. There is live off-track betting at this establishment, so revelers can get in on the action during the race. (1801 Blake St.; 303-308-1795)
Max Gill & Grill
Live it up at the 15th annual Derby Day Celebration at Max Gill & Grill near Washington Park starting at 2 PM race day. Cover charge is $5. Enjoy Mint Juleps, a live DJ and full race coverage. Groups packages are available that will waive the cover charge. Call in advance to arrange. (1052 S. Gaylord St.; 303-722-7456)
The Nickel
Located inside Hotel Teatro, The Nickel will feature $5 Mint Juleps on May 6 and 7. The hotel and bar are located mere blocks from the Denver Performing Arts Complex, where the Denver Derby Party will take place, so avoid the traffic and driving by getting a room. (1100 Fourteenth St.; 720-889-2128)
Tavern (all locations)
Join all nine Tavern locations for a Kentucky Derby viewing party starting at 1 PM on Saturday. Enjoy $6 Maker’s Mark 46 Mint Juleps and wear a derby hat for the Best Hat contest. Also pick the winning horse and get your bar tab covered (up to $50). (Uptown, Downtown, Lowry, Littleton, Plate Park, Tech Center, Washginton Park, Ballpark and Mile High)
Thirsty Lion Gastropub
The Thirsty Lion will host a viewing party on Derby Day with specials on Buffalo Trace Bourbon and Mint Juleps. Everyone who walks in wearing a Derby hat will be entered to win a raffle drawing. (1605 Wynkoop St.; 303-623-0316)
ViewHouse
Both locations of ViewHouse will host Colorado’s two largest free derby parties. Bust out your best hats, summer dresses and seersucker suits. Both parties will have giveaways and prizes, including a grand prize trip to the 2017 Kentucky Derby. Visit the website for prize rules and details. Enjoy live music before and after the race, and drink Mint Juleps and Stella Artois all day long. (Ballpark, 2015 Market St.; Centennial, 7101 S. Clinton St.)
Photo via Flickr user Chodhound
