How To Decor A House For A Kentucky Derby Party

Alright, brace yourself for a dive into the whirlwind world of Kentucky Derby party decor – a realm where elegance meets the thrill of the races, and your living room can suddenly transform into Churchill Downs’ fancier cousin.

For most of us, the Kentucky Derby is out of reach. The tickets are quite expensive, and a trip to Kentucky from the other part of the world also adds to the cost. But this doesn’t mean that you cannot bring the Churchill Downs magic to your home, right?

There isn’t a better way to enjoy the Kentucky Derby race than throwing a party at your home. But as we know, the Kentucky Derby isn’t only about the race. It’s also about how it feels and the ambient around you that intensifies the race even more.

So, how do you decorate your home for a Kentucky Derby Party, without looking too cliché?

Well, there are certain tricks you need to follow that we will highlight in today’s article.

Now, let’s get down to brass tacks (or should I say, brass horses?) and talk about how to make your house the talk of the Triple Crown without having to bet the farm on it.

Setting the Right Scene

First off, your mantra should be “Go big or go home!” But, let’s keep it tasteful, shall we? The Kentucky Derby isn’t just any race; it’s the Super Bowl of horse racing but with better hats and less shoulder padding.

Think of your decor as the hat of your home: it needs to make a statement, but it shouldn’t look like it’s trying too hard.

Plus, the party should take place a few hours before the race, so prepare a sitting area filled with interesting horse-themed decorations that will inspire everybody. This is the time when most people will share the tips for the race that they’ve learned from TwinSpires.com.

Color Scheme

Stick with classic Derby colors. We’re talking greens, roses (a lot of them), and gold accents. Why? Because nothing screams “I know what I’m doing” like a color palette that has more thought behind it than your fantasy football picks.

The Essentials

No Derby party is complete without some equestrian flair. And no, you don’t need a live horse in your backyard (although, if you can manage that, hats off to you).

Gold Spray-Painted Horses

Grab some plastic horses from the dollar store, give them a golden makeover, and voila, you’ve got yourself some classy table toppers. Just remember, these aren’t for nibbling on, no matter how much mint julep you’ve had​​.

A Photo Op Station

Because if you don’t post it on Instagram, did it even happen? Set up a spot where your guests can flaunt their Derby duds.

A simple backdrop, some thematic props (think roses, horseshoes, a faux trophy), and you’re in business. Bonus points for a custom Derby Day sign that makes everyone look like they’re winning, even if their horse came in last​​.

We all know how important the Kentucky Derby red carpet is, and maybe you should bring that magic to your home. Add a red carpet at the entrance, and an interesting background highlighting the sponsors (which is you in this case).

This is where everybody can showcase their outfits and take a photo with them at home.

Floral Fancies

The Derby is also known as “The Run for the Roses,” so skimping on the florals is akin to serving instant coffee at a brunch – just don’t do it.

DIY Rose Wreaths

These can dress up any area, from your photo op station to your front door. Opt for faux roses to avoid wilting (and to keep things budget-friendly).

A little wire, some faux greenery, and you’re basically Martha Stewart without the insider trading scandal​​.

Mint Julep Accents

Real mint plants dotted around your space not only look fresh but also subtly remind your guests of the day’s signature drink. It’s like subliminal messaging for cocktail preferences.

Final Touches

This is where you bring it all home, folks. The little details that make your guests say, “I bet they read a very informative, yet amusing article on how to throw a Kentucky Derby party.”

Derby Day Games

Look, not everyone is there for the horses. Some just want to wear the hat. Cater to all by setting up some Derby-themed games.

Think “Pin the Tail on the Horse” but with a sophisticated twist, like “Guess the Winner” with real stakes (perhaps a bottle of bourbon for the victor).

The Menu

It’s not all about the decor. Your food and drink offerings should nod to Derby classics. Mint juleps are a given, but why not up the ante with a bourbon-tasting station? As for food, think elegant Southern comfort food – bite-sized and easy to eat while mingling.

Final Words

As you can see, throwing a Kentucky Derby party isn’t that difficult, and you don’t need a lot of money. You just need the right ideas and a bit of knowledge about race in order to paint the perfect theme.

To make it even more exciting, make sure to add a dress code to all your party invitations. We all know that Churchill Downs doesn’t have an official dress code, but everybody knows what to wear at the races.

So, you wouldn’t want someone showing up in their trainers or PJs.

Make sure you stock up on bourbon and mint, and get a karaoke speaker for the after-party when you celebrate the winners of the race.