The heart of thoroughbred horse racing is calling, and Pittsburgh is answering in style! The Kentucky Derby, often referred to as the most exciting two minutes in sports, is upon us, and Pittsburgh has the perfect watch party for you. Whether you’re a seasoned racing enthusiast or simply looking for a fun-filled social occasion, here’s your chance to put on your finest fascinator or dapper suit, grab your mint julep, and prepare to experience the excitement of the Kentucky Derby right here in the Steel City.
Kentucky Derby Watch Parties in Pittsburgh
BURN Pittsburgh
Dress to impress at this Kentucky Derby extravaganza. Take a chance at winning Best Dressed or Best Hat while sipping on specialty cocktails inspired by the derby, such as the classic Mint Julep. When the time comes, sit down with a cigar and watch the big race in a lively environment to truly celebrate in style.
Nemacolin
Why not turn your derby watch party into a staycation too at Nemacolin’s resort? You’ll start by making your dream fascinator to wear during the derby before heading to the bar area for a drink. After watching the race for the roses, winners for best hat and best fascinator will be announced featuring a short parade of the contestants.
Inner Groove Brewing
Grab a horses and hops checklist from Inner Groove Brewing and explore a number of activities to get you excited for the race. Start off by sipping on a Mint Julep or other specialty cocktail from the bar. Then, head to the different stations around the brewery to try your chance at various games to win prizes. Plus, if you dress up you’ll have another chance at winning prizes.
Bakery Square
Why wait till the last minute to enjoy the horse-racing fun? Begin your evening early by “betting” on horses in real time, prior to the race, for a chance to win an official Kentucky Derby gift set and $100 in gift cards to Bakery Square restaurants and retailers. After, sit back and relax with a Mint Julep while listening to tunes from Eclectic Acoustics before the race begins.
Spritzery
What’s more springlike than sipping a spritz while watching the most exciting two minutes in sports? Of course besides the Spritzery’s menu, they will also be mixing up mint juleps for all. Just don’t forget your colorful, lavish hat and your finest attire to embrace the spirit of race day and join everyone else in on the fun.
Pittsburgh Brewing Company
Bella Terra Stables, a non-profit organization dedicated to equine-assisted therapy programs, is joining forces with Pittsburgh Brewing Company for derby day. Help both these groups celebrate featuring a buffet and live music from Chris Higbee. You’ll want to get there as soon as doors open too so you can take advantage of the complimentary mint juleps while supplies last.
Allegheny HYP Club
Bring your friends along to the 1930’s atmosphere of Allegheny HYP Club to get into the elegant, horse-racing mood. Guests are encourage to don their biggest hat while enjoying mint juleps at the bar. The best part is taking bets on which horse you think will cross the finish first. Of course we reccomend betting drinks to friends only so you don’t get too caught up in all the fun.
Sienna Mercato
The rooftop at Sienna Mercato is one of the most gorgeous places to watch the derby from. The city skyline is in full view so you can sit back and relax with a drink in hand like a Kentucky Mule. You’ll also want to design the best hat possible for a chance to win either the first place $100 cash prize or a Sienna Mercato gift card for second and third place.
Vallozzi’s
Head down to the Cultural District the most authentic Kentucky Derby food and beverages around. This restaurant is teaming up with Woodford Reserve and Herradura Tequila, two staples of the yearly race, to bring you Southern inspired foods and two Derby themed cocktails. You can come in your best hat or fascinator but if you don’t have one handy, you can create a hat at their decorating station.
Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Bakery Square
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