Looking for the best Kentucky Derby parties in Philly? From VIP experiences to free rooftop events, these local spots are hosting can’t-miss celebrations this Saturday, May 2.
One of the city’s largest Derby Day parties is hosted by The Twisted Tail, and this year the venue is pulling out all the stops for the race on May 2. From noon to 7 p.m., the event will take over Headhouse Square Plaza with a dedicated cocktail tent (chock full of Mint Juleps), BBQ fare (think hot dogs, burgers, tacos, corn, and more), lawn games, a jumbotron screen for viewing and plenty of live music from local talent.
The party will also feature a VIP experience ($100 via Eventbrite) complete with a DIY flower crown and pocket square station, whiskey tastings (1 to 5 p.m.), a commemorative julep cup/a complimentary Julep, a keepsake beer mug/unlimited drafts, plus, private indoor and outdoor viewing areas.
The Twisted Tail’s general admission party will also feature a raffle, the chance to participate in a “Pick the Winning Horse” contest, and a best dressed competition (participants are encouraged to don their Derby Day best). Inside the restaurant, the full Twisted Tail menu will be available all day, and as the sun sets, the party will move indoors, and live music will continue in the Juke Joint upstairs. Seating is first-come, first-served; no reservations will be accepted.
509 S 2nd St., thetwistedtail.com
Ballers is hosting its first Derby Day celebration in Philadelphia this year. The fun started earlier this week with a free DIY Hat Bar, and will continue on race day, May 2, from 4 to 8 p.m. On top of live viewing of all the action, the venue will also host hobby horse races, curated food and beverage options, plus a best dressed competition. Tickets start at $20 for members and $30 for general admission and can be purchased online.
1325 N Beach St., ballers-us.com
This Derby Day celebration is sky high, with Cira Green’s Sunset Social as its backdrop. This venue’s party will kick off at noon and feature photo ops, live music, a caricature artist, and a best dressed contest with prizes for best dressed, best hat, and best dressed group.
Live viewing will be available on a large screen overlooking the city’s skyline, and admission to the event is free—though a VIP ticket option ($55 or $75 day of) is also being offered with access to the Rose Circle Tent. The Tent will feature an array of passed canapés and your own bar from 3 to 6 p.m.
129 S 30th St., sunsetsocialphl.com
Held at the picturesque estate once owned by the Biddle Family, Andalusia’s Derby celebrations (May 2, from 5 to 7:30 p.m.) will feature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a chance to explore their internationally recognized gardens. It all leads up to a live viewing of the race, and proceeds from this Garden Party will go directly to help preserve this National Historic Landmark. General admission tickets start at $140, but discounts are available for members and young professionals.
1237 State Rd., Andalusia, andalusiapa.org
Derby Day at Courtesy Stable will feature plenty of food, fun, and community spirit. On Saturday, May 2, (timing and ticket details coming soon) locals can head to the beloved Philadelphia barn to celebrate the excitement of the Kentucky Derby with music, drinks, and plenty of chances to win raffle prizes, including gift baskets, restaurant gift cards, canvas photos, salon packages, facial treatments, and more. The best part? Every ticket supports the horses, the barn, and the community.
901 E Cathedral Road, courtesystable.org
This locale is celebrating the occasion with two themed cocktails: The Urban Julep ($16) blends bourbon, smoked honey, and fresh mint, while the Lily of the Farm ($18) offers a mix of vodka, Cointreau, hibiscus, lemon, and rose. Locals can order the drinks alongside bites like pan roasted pork belly, a twice-baked fingerling potato tart, crab cakes and much more.
1850 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, urbanfarmersteakhouse.com
Dolce is commemorating the event with pre-race pours, live viewing and post-race celebrations. Diners can pair their Mint Juleps with bites like seared bluefin tuna, bone-in veal milanese, braised short rib, lobster tagliatelle, and much more.
