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Colorado might not have a Triple Crown event nearby, but it’s not in Denverites’ DNA to pass up a perfectly good excuse to party. Don’t believe us? Consider all of the rowdy Derby Day functions in the Mile High City, some 1,100 miles away from Louisville. Whether you’re a racetrack regular or you’re just learning what a lead pony is, we suggest you get in on the horseplay.
Below, our favorite Kentucky Derby shindigs around Denver this Saturday.
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Denver Derby Party
Cheer on your thoroughbred with thousands of other Denverites at one of the biggest Derby parties in the nation. This soiree sprawls across 17,000-square-foot McGregor Square with a champagne lounge, a massive LED screen, and live entertainment (including a DJ set by Bachelorette alum Blake Horstmann). Your ticket to this bash will get you all-you-can-drink and all-you-can-eat provisions from Milepost Zero, plus access to infield lounges and the Woodford Reserve tent. Spring for the “Jockey Club” experience and you’ll be treated like a prize-winning pony with a red-carpet entrance, access to bonus levels of McGregor, and elevated food and beverage options. 1–6:30 p.m.; $125–$300
OK, so this Derby party couldn’t get Secretariat or American Pharoah to attend, but we’d argue that its honored guests are just as exciting. In addition to a huge viewing screen, an open bar, and a barbecue, this gathering includes a race of pint-size ponies. And, they won’t be the only four-legged VIPs: Don’t miss the fan-favorite corgi race, which might just be more exciting than the Derby itself. 1–6 p.m.; $85–$170
Derby Day at Denver Union Station
A pessimist might complain about Derby Day’s main event only being two minutes long. We, however, believe this is an upside: A short main event just means more time for after-parties. At Denver Union Station’s bash, stay occupied with live music from the Royal Street Ramblers, a patio party hosted by drag queen Miss Jessica, photo booths, best-dressed contests, and tons of drink specials. Noon–5 p.m.; free attendance
Derby Day Party in the Bierhalle
If ice-cold IPAs suit your fancy more than mint and bourbon, Bierstadt Lagerhaus’ function fits the bill. Before the race is screened on an eight-by-10-foot jumbotron, be sure to indulge in a Hot Brown—a classic Kentucky sandwich made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce—and a brew (mint juleps will be available for dark-liquor lovers). Seersucker suits are encouraged if you hope to be crowned the best dressed at this fete. Competitors can also jockey to win the hobby horse obstacle course. 1:30 p.m.; free attendance, RSVP here
TheBigWonderful at Belleview Station: Derby Party
Top-notch people-watching. Live music. Decadent eats. If you’re looking for an infield vibe (read: more casual and rowdy), secure a ticket to this sprawling celebration. Of course, this Belleview Station bash has a twinge of Colorado—so expect tons of craft beer alongside traditional Derby cocktails and a lineup of bluegrass bands. The race will be livestreamed, and attendees can compete in a Derby King and Queen contest. Noon–6 p.m.; free attendance, beer garden tickets $40–$60
Derby Day at Avanti Food & Beverage
Usually, we’re partial to Colorado-based distillers—but, on Derby Day, we’ll make an exception for straight-from-Kentucky bourbon. Avanti has partnered with small-batch maker Woodford Reserve to ensure these mint juleps taste just like they do down south. Nurse yours while dancing to tunes from DJ Styla and flaunting your fit in hopes of winning the best-dressed contest. 11 a.m.–1 a.m.; free attendance
Off to the Horse Races at Poka Lola Social Club
If you’re sick of mint juleps, head to Poka Lola Social Club, which has a multidrink cocktail menu of Derby-inspired sippers. Try a Lead Pony (bourbon, citrus, mint); Dead Heat (rye, Fernet Vallet, cherry); or Morning Glory (Hibiscus-infused rye, citrus, soda). Noon–midnight; free entry
Derby Day at Yardbird
For a very on-theme brunch, head to Yardbird, where you’ll be able to indulge in Kentucky-inspired dishes such as the Derby Pie (chocolate-walnut pie with coffee ice cream) and a breakfast waffle served with macerated strawberries, whipped Chantilly, and bourbon-glazed pecans. Get an early start on the day by ordering a bourbon-and-grapefruit “Off to the Races” cocktail alongside your entrée. Brunch served 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., free to attend
