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.
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 flask and $300 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.
Fogo de Chão
Benefiting 412FosterProject, Nate’s Reptile Rescue, and No Kid Hungry, Fogo de Chão’s Kentucky Derby party encourages extravagant dress for an evening of luxury. You’ll be served a Mint Julep as soon as you enter the doors. Then, you’ll be directed to the 50/50 raffle, Chinese auction, and a table full of Brazilian heavy hors d’oeuvres to make sure you get your fill of food and fun.
Cadence+ Cellars Speakeasy
A Julep Cup cocktail, official foods of the Kentucky Derby, and complimentary liquor tastings makes Cadence+ Cellars Speakeasy the place to be on Derby Day. After taking the chance to taste Woodford, Old Forester, and Herradura cocktails, find your seat and cheer on your lucky horse for the win.
Tom’s Watch Bar
Do you want a chance to see the Kentucky Derby in person next year? All you have to do is head to Tom’s Watch Bar for their viewing party and you can win two tickets for the derby, roundtrip airfare, and a two-nights hotel stay. Besides the contest, you can also sip on Q Mixers Derby Day Cocktails, listen to live music in your derby attire, and watch all the races, all day long.
Vallozzi’s
In honor of their latest Kentucky location, Vallozzi’s is throwing a Kentucky Derby party Southern style. Dig into a large spread of Southern-inspired foods plus two derby-themed cocktails to wash it down. They’re also partnering with Woodford Reserve and Herradura Tequila to make sure you have plenty of opportunities for freebies. Not to mention, if you forget your hat, fascinators and flowers will be on site to make your own while you wait for the race.
Story by Kylie Thomas
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