The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race—it’s a tradition steeped in pageantry, Southern hospitality, and bold fashion. As the 150th running of the Derby approaches on Saturday, May 3, Orlando is brimming with themed events for every kind of celebration. Whether you’re into fine bourbon, high-stakes raffles, or just looking for the perfect excuse to wear a dramatic hat, there’s a Derby event for you.
Here’s your guide to the most anticipated Kentucky Derby events around Central Florida.
Dapper Derby Day at Stadium Club
Caribe Royale Orlando – 8101 World Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32821
Saturday, May 3 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Tickets: $75 (includes buffet, drink tickets) | $100 (with open bar)
Hosted by UCP of Central Florida, this upscale watch party offers an appetizer buffet, drink tickets, immersive sports simulator contests, a raffle, and a Best Dressed competition. Includes complimentary valet and self-parking. Ages 21+ only.
Derby Day Orlando at John Euliano Park
4422 Knights Victory Way, Orlando, FL 32816
Friday & Saturday, May 2–3 | Starting at 3:30 PM
Tickets start at $125
As one of Orlando’s biggest Derby celebrations, this event features unlimited food and drinks, live entertainment, raffles, a 50/50 drawing, and dancing. This 21+ party is a full-scale experience in Derby glamour.
Derby Day at Historic Dubsdread
549 West Par Street, Orlando, FL 32804
Saturday, May 3 | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Tickets: $30 (includes two drinks)
Enjoy an afternoon of mint juleps, bourbon, delicious bites, a hat contest, games, music, and more in a classic Southern setting. It’s a crowd-pleasing event perfect for both first-time attendees and seasoned Derby fans.
Forward/Slash Distillery Derby Weekend
650 S Capen Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Saturday, May 3 | 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Sunday, May 4 | 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturday’s festivities feature a custom hat maker, cocktails, and barbecue from Mohawk Smokehouse (5–8 PM). Return Sunday for a Reposado Mezcal launch, complete with margaritas and birria tacos from Fui Yo Mexicana (3–6 PM).
The Courtesy’s Annual Derby Party
1288 N. Orange Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Saturday, May 3 | 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Tickets: $30
The Courtesy teams up with Michter’s Distillery to offer crafted juleps, cocktails, and Southern-inspired fare from Swine & Sons. Your ticket includes a welcome drink or bubbles, reserved seating, and a commemorative glass.
5th Annual DeLand Derby
954 N Prevatt Ave, Lake Helen, FL 32744
Saturday, May 3 | 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Tickets: $100
This lively 21+ event includes a buffet, open bar, live streams of the race, music, casino games, a cigar bar, raffles, and a red carpet photo experience. Dress to impress for the Best Hat and Best Dressed competitions.
Kentucky Derby at The Hampton Social
The Hampton Social at The Pointe Orlando
Saturday, May 3 | 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Celebrate Derby Day with half-off H Rosé and a limited-time Mint Julep special. Dress to impress—best dressed wins a $100 gift card. A chic venue for sipping, socializing, and celebrating in style.
Derby in the District: Run for the Rosé
Barley & Vine Biergarten, 2406 East Washington Street, Orlando
Saturday, May 3
Enjoy a spirited afternoon complete with music, food trucks, and flowing rosé. Come in garden party attire and join the festivities celebrating Kentucky Derby tradition with a fun, social twist.
Kentucky Derby Pub Crawl – St. Cloud Edition
The Black Squirrel Bookstore, 1118 New York Avenue, St. Cloud
Saturday, May 3
Watch the race at The Black Squirrel Bookstore, then hit the streets of Historic Downtown St. Cloud for a post-Derby pub crawl. Wear your finest Derby looks and enjoy a complimentary mint julep at the after-party. A perfect blend of tradition and local charm.
Top Hat Party at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando
Grande Lakes, Orlando
Sunday, May 4 | 2:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Reservations required: (407) 393-4200
Enjoy mint juleps and Southern-style appetizers in the sunroom of the Ritz-Carlton’s Lobby Lounge. A refined and relaxing way to extend the Derby weekend. Derby attire is required.
Kentucky Derby Party at EvrBar
JW Marriott Grande Lakes, Orlando
Sunday, May 4 | 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Experience Derby Day in luxury with themed bourbon cocktails from Woodford Reserve and Old Forester. EvrBar delivers all the charm of Churchill Downs with a Central Florida twist.