On Saturday, May 4, the country will tune in to see “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.” The Kentucky Derby is a beloved annual tradition immersed in history, heritage, and pageantry where eyes of the world turn to Churchill Downs — a race track in Louisville, Kentucky.
Editor’s note: this City Editor is proud to call Louisville my first home.
Three-year-old thoroughbreds race in “The Run for the Roses” to reach the elusive Triple Crown. Fun fact: “The Run for the Roses” is a term referencing the blanket of 554 red roses bestowed upon the winning horse.
Derby traditions range from quirky horse names, mint juleps, and colorful hats. Fortunately, our friends in Louisville, (Hey, LOUtoday) aren’t the only ones with “Derby Fever.”
Here are upcoming events celebrating the 150th Kentucky Derby in the Queen City:
Derby Days 2024 — Mint Museum Randolph
Saturday, May 4 | 3-7 p.m. | Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Rd., Charlotte | $45-$75 | Enjoy live music, mint juleps, wine + beer, and food trucks. Enter a Kentucky Derby raffle, “Best Dressed” and “Best Hat” contests + a large-screen viewing of the race.
Kentucky Derby Viewing Party — Sophia’s Lounge
Saturday, May 4 | 4-7:30 p.m. | Sophia’s Lounge @ The Ivey’s Hotel, 127 N. Tryon St., Charlotte | $95 | Enjoy the races, a Derby-themed dinner, whiskey tasting, and dress to impress in your best attire for the “Best Dressed” and “Best Derby Hat” contests.
Kentucky Derby Watch Party Charlotte — Dram & Draught
Saturday, May 4 | 3-8 p.m. | Dram & Draught, 1220 S. Tryon St., Ste. #300, Charlotte | Free | Watch the races while sipping on mint juleps + be ready for a best hat & dressed competition, raffles, and more.
Derby Day - Hats On & Pinkies Up
Saturday, May 4 | 5-9 p.m. | Gaston Country Club, 3700 Country Club Dr., Gastonia | $75 | Break out your sundresses, hats, and bow ties and join the ladies of Zeta Mu Omega and DJ-JROXX for a watch party.
The Kappa Derby - Day Party Vol. 7
Saturday, May 4 | 3-8 p.m. | RSVP South End, 225 Fairwood Ave., Charlotte | $30-$300 | Enjoy an afternoon of food, music, and cocktails + a large-screen viewing of the race live.
There will also be free public watch parties at Lore Brewing at 1218 Rosemont Dr., Ste. 100 in Indian Land starting at 12 p.m. + Sycamore Brewing at 2151 Hawkins St. in Charlotte starting at 2 p.m.
Mark your calendars — live coverage for the 150th Kentucky Derby begins Saturday, May 4 at 2 p.m. on WCNC.