The 151st annual Kentucky Derby is set to take place on May 3, 2025. Unlike most sporting events, the derby is jokingly known as “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” Though the race is short, the party lasts all day.
While you may not be able to make it all the way to Churchill Downs in Louisville to see the race, there are several spots around town where you can get in on the action. So, don your oversized hats and find out where you can sip on mint juleps and cheer on your favorite racehorse at these derby day events in Orlando.
Kentucky Derby Events Orlando
Run for the Roses Pre-Kentucky Derby Party
Saturday, May 3, from 11 am to 2 am
Historic Dubsdread: 549 West Par Street Orlando, FL 32804
Put on your best Derby attire and join us at Historic Dubsdread on Saturday, May 3, from 11 AM to 2 PM for an unforgettable afternoon of classic Southern hospitality. Sip on mint juleps, enjoy fabulous food, sample fine bourbon, and strut your stuff in our lively hat contest. With music, dancing, racing-themed games, and photo-worthy moments at every turn, it’s the ultimate way to celebrate Derby Day in style. Tickets are just $30 and include two drinks—don’t miss this unforgettable springtime event!
Derby/Cinco Party Weekend Extravaganza
Saturday – Sunday, May 3 – 4; Saturday from 2-11 p.m. & Sunday from 2-8 p.m.
Forward/Slash Distillery: 650 S Capen Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Get ready for big hats, bold bowties, and all the Derby Day flair you can handle for the 3rd annual celebration of the most exciting 2 minutes in sports on Saturday, May 3rd from 2pm – 11pm. There will be a custom hat maker on site, plus Mohawk Smokehouse BBQ will be serving up good eats from 5-8 p.m.
Come back Sunday, May 4th from 2pm – 8pm for our official release of our new Reposado Mezcal. Enjoy an afternoon of margs and birra tacos from Fui Yo Mexicana 3 – 6 p.m.
Derby Day Orlando
Friday & Saturday, May 2 and 3, 3:30pm
John Euliano Park in Orlando
4422 Knights Victory Way, Orlando, FL 32816
Loyal Source’s Derby Day is Orlando’s biggest Kentucky Derby watch party! They’re holding this year’s event at John Euliano Park, with unlimited food and drinks, a live auction, raffle prizes, 50/50 raffle, winner’s circle, music by DJ Gonzo, dancing, and much more. The party is open to adults 21 and older – so bring your best Derby fashions and join the fun!
Tickets start at $125
Shady Kentucky Derby
Saturday, May 3, 11am
Lamp & Shade Craft Kitchen And Cocktails
1336 N Mills Ave, Orlando, Florida 32803
Enjoy a refined day of Derby tradition—complete with elegant hats, dapper style, and thrilling views of the races. Festivities begin at 11AM. Let the charm of the Kentucky Derby sweep you away.
Kentucky Derby at CityWalk
Saturday, May 3, 12-8pm
NBC Sports Grill & Brew
6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
Enjoy an unforgettable 151st Kentucky Derby celebration at CityWalk's NBC Sports Grill & Brew. Watch the race live on the indoor and outdoor TVs and enjoy additional entertainment throughout the day, including jockeys and horse races, a photo opportunity, plus specialty drink offerings.
Orlando Derby Soirée
Saturday, May 3, 12-8pm
Serenity Ranch
8001 Clarcona Ocoee Rd, Orlando, FL 32818
Enjoy an exciting Orlando Derby Soirée! Dress to impress and experience the thrill of the race as you celebrate in style. Enjoy an equestrian show, bourbon tasting, food trucks, live music, Kentucky Derby viewing, best dressed competition, food, drinks, and an after-party. Plus, special performances by Jon B., Doug E. Fresh, and October London. Derby attire required.
Tickets start at $50
Kentucky Derby Affair
Saturday, May 3, 2:30-6:30pm
Bosendorfer Lounge, Grand Bohemian Orlando
325 S. Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
Experience the epitome of luxury and sophistication at this exclusive Kentucky Derby celebration hosted at the renowned Bosendorfer Lounge. Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of opulence and excitement. Strut your stuff and compete for fabulous prizes in our Opulent Derby Hat Showcase. Let your style shine as you vie for the title of most luxurious headwear. Immerse yourself in the classic Derby tradition with their Exquisite Mint Julep Bar.
FREE – While this event is open to the public, tickets are available by RSVP only.
VIP Upgrade available only for $47, including access to the event, One mint julep from Julep Bar, gifts and access to Peacock Room with small bites.
Derby Daze: A Kentucky Derby-Influenced Day Party Experience
Saturday, May 3, 4-9pm
Euphoria Kissimmee, 2783 North Orange Blossom Trail Kissimmee, FL 34744
Experience the excitement of “the greatest 2 minutes in sports” and immerse yourself in one of the most fashion-forward events in the world. Derby Daze is curated to recreate this atmosphere for the movers and shakers of the Central Florida community. Full food menu will be available with a variety of options, including vegetarian appetizers and entrees. Purchase VIP to guarantee seating and enhance your Derby Daze experience. There are a variety of VIP options, please choose the best to accommodate your party.
Tickets start at $25
Derby Party 2025
Saturday, May 3, 4:30-7:30pm
The Courtesy
1288 N. Orange Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Come celebrate in style at The Courtesy's annual Derby Party! Enjoy a lineup from Michter’s Distillery with Juleps and other specialty cocktails, and Southern-inspired snacks from Swine & Sons. The ticket includes your seat, welcome drink or bubbles & a commemorative Derby glass.
$30
Derby Day at Vines
Saturday, May 3, 4-10pm
Vines Grille & Wine Bar
7533 Sand Lake Road Orlando, FL 32819
Show off your finest race-day attire at our upscale Derby Day party! Live music: Dance & vibe with Joseph Jevanni & The Intensity Band. Bourbon tasting station: Savor the spirit of the South with a curated tasting experience featuring our premium selections. Best dressed contest: Bring your boldest fashion – pastels, florals, suits & seersucker – for a chance to be crowned Best Dressed. Plus, a best hat prize giveaway.
FREE
5th Annual DeLand Derby
Saturday, May 3, 4:30pm – 9:30pm
954 N Prevatt Ave, Lake Helen, FL 32744, USA
The Rotaract Club of DeLand is excited to host this year's DeLand Derby for guests 21+ to enjoy. Tickets include a food buffet, drinks, and of course, live streams of The Kentucky Derby. There will be music, casino games, red carpet photos, a 50/50 raffle, lottery hat, Photo Booth, cigar bar, and best hat/best dressed contests, so come in your best Derby attire!
$100
Kentucky Derby at The Castle Irish Pub
Saturday, May 3, 5:00 pm
The Castle Irish Pub
2625 Edgewater Dr., Orlando, FL
Sit front row for the Derby at The Castle. 20 seats at the bar = 20 horses. The first 20 people to snag a seat at the bar will get to draw a horse out of a hat. There will be prizes for the winners. Plus, come dressed in your finest Derby attire – Best Dressed will win a prize!
Dapper Derby Day
Saturday, May 3, 5-8pm
Stadium Club at the Caribe Royale Orlando
8101 World Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32821
Join UCP of Central Florida for a watch party to witness the most exciting two minutes in sports, the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby! This exciting event includes food and beverages, golf simulator contests, a spectacular raffle, and a best dressed contest for those showing off their Derby finest. Your ticket includes admission to the private party at Orlando's most interactive, immersive, and captivating sport’s bar with a appetizer buffet and drink tickets.
$75
Kentucky Derby Watch Party
Saturday, May 3, 5-8pm
The View, Dobel Lounge
2601 Clermont National Dr, Clermont, FL 34711
Grab your hats and your lucky charm, and come out to The View for the best Kentucky Derby Watch Party in town! There will be specialty Derby cocktails, scratch-off games, and a best-dressed contest! This is one party you don’t want to miss!
Kentucky Derby Watch Party
Saturday, May 3, 7:00pm -11:00 pm
Spill Wine Bar
1196 Tree Swallow Dr #1314, Winter Springs, FL 32708
Get ready to cheer on your favorite horses as they race to the finish line. Whether you're a seasoned horse racing fan or just looking for a fun time, this event is perfect for everyone. So grab your friends, put on your best derby attire, and head down to Spill Wine Bar for a day of excitement and entertainment. Fancy Hat Contest with prizes for the winner! LIVE MUSIC with Sammy Vèlez. Plus, happy hour specials (4-7 PM): $6 house wines, and $1 off beer.
FREE
Kentucky Derby Top Hat Party
Sunday, May 4, 4:00pm – 7:30pm
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
Sample southern appetizers and mint juleps in the Lobby Lounge sunroom. Derby attire and reservation required. For reservations call (407) 393-4200.
Kentucky Derby Party
Sunday, May 4, 4:00 pm – 7:30 pm
EvrBar at JW Marriott Grande Lakes
Join Evrbar for a day at the races featuring Woodford Reserve and Old Forester Bourbon. Be a part of the experience as they transport you to Churchill Downs.
Day Trip: Run for the Roses 2025 Kentucky Derby Soiree
Sunday, May 4, 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Black Prong Resort
450 SE Co Rd 337, Bronson, FL 32621
Join for an afternoon of Woodford Mint Juleps, a chance to win games, and race day fun. New this year: whiskey tastings as an add-on experience and limited complimentary carriage rides! Drink ticket, passed hors d'oeuvres, chance-to-win games, and raceday coverage are included in your ticket. Dinner will be available for purchase.
$45
