Reviewed by: Liv George
Your guide to spending Derby Day in Alabama
Reading time: 4 minutes
Dust off your hats, prepare some minty drinks and pick your favorite horse. The first Saturday in May is almost here and that means its time to get ready for the Kentucky Derby.
Churchill Downs is quite a trek for most of us but there are plenty of ways to celebrate Derby Day right here in Alabama. From big events focused around the race to small parties looking for any reason to dress up, we’ve got whatever kind of day you’re looking for.
Fast facts
Here’s the quick facts about the most exciting two minutes in sports:
- What: 150th Running of the Kentucky Derby
- Where: Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky
- When: Coverage begins at 1:30PM; Post time at 5:57PM
- Watch: NBC or Peacock
Check out these 8 events around the state you can attend to celebrate the annual event.
Storybook Farm in Opelika
- What: The self-described largest Derby party in Alabama takes place at Storybook Farm. This will be the 16th year of the event which in the past has included a big screen to watch the race, an auction, food from local restaurants + Derby specialty cocktails.
- When: Gates open at 1PM
- Where: 300 Cusseta Rd, Opelika, AL 36801
- Cost: $125 for groups of 6 or less | Tickets
Talk Derby to Me in Gadsden
- What: The 5th annual event in Etowah County is at a new venue this year but is still looking to raise funds for the Family Success Center. The event will feature the race, a bourbon auction, catered meal, fireworks, prizes + more.
- When: 4-8PM
- Where: Seraphim Grace, 13316 US Hwy 431, Wellington, AL 36279
- Cost: $75 individual ticket + $25 individual wristband | Group tickets available | More info
Tulips and Juleps Watch Party in Montgomery
- What: Wear your Derby Best for a fun-filled afternoon of races, food, drinks, music, and a silent auction. Whether you are pulling for the underdog or a top pick, be prepared to cheer until the final stretch!
- When: 4-7PM
- Where: 300 Water St, Montgomery, AL 36104
- Cost: $60 individual ticket | $600 for a table | More info
Kentucky Derby Party in Sylacauga
- What: Bourbon on Broadway is hosting its third annual Derby Day event, self dubbed as a “southern good time.” Wear your best hats and Derby attire to join in on the fun.
- When: 3PM
- Where: 112 N Broadway Ave, Sylacauga, AL 35150
- Cost: Free!
Hats and Horses for CASA in Mobile
- What: This 7th annual benefit will be filled with events outside of just watching the horse race. The event will include a silent auction, a best hat contest, dapper man contest, putting contest, mystery wine pull + more.
- When: 2-6PM
- Where: Mobile Country Club, 4101 Wimbledon Dr W, Mobile, AL 36608
- Cost: More info
Clyde Mays Derby Party in Orange Beach
- What: 8 Reale OBAL is opening early for its first official Derby Day party in partnership with Clyde May’s distillery. Watch the race in style and dress like you’re at the derby — hats encouraged. You’ll have the opportunity to meet LC Mays, Clyde May’s Grandson. There will also be an outside bar serving a variety of juleps.
- When: 4PM
- Where: 4851 Wharf Pkwy W Suite D-112, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Cost: Free!
Unframed: Off to the Races in Huntsville
- What: Huntsville Museum of Art Guild’s flagship fundraiser is set for another year. The event will include a wine and bourbon pull, art auction, live music and of course, the race on a big screen.
- When: 4-7PM
- Where: Loretta Spencer Hall at the Huntsville Museum of Art
- Cost: $95 | More info
Upsqale Derby Day Social in Birmingham
- What: Head down to Dread River Distillery for the 2nd Annual Derby Day Social Event. Mingle, dance, and watch the race(s) on numerous big screens. Strut your stuff and show off your style as the Best Dressed Lady and the Best Dressed Gentlemen will be awarded a prize in the winner’s circle. Funds will be raised for the Lifting as We Climb Foundation.
- When: 2PM
- Where: 2400 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
- Cost: More info
How will you be watching the Kentucky Derby? Post it to social media and make sure to tag The Bama Buzz on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn!
