The Kentucky Derby is more than a horse race. It’s a celebration of tradition and elegance, as well as an amazing excuse to throw a party. Add a touch of excitement to your Derby Day gathering by incorporating these 19 Kentucky Derby party games into the festivities. Your guests will be impressed and your Derby celebration will be a memorable event filled with fun, friendly competition.
Plus, while you’re reviewing our list of Kentucky Derby party games, consider what your dream party venue might look like. When you’re done, head over to Peerspace—the internet’s largest marketplace for hourly venue rentals—to find fabulous party venues for rent near you.
1. Treat guests to a DIY horse racing game
First up on our list of Kentucky Derby party games is this awesome homemade game that, very appropriately, takes its inspiration from horse racing! Incorporating betting into the game is optional, but raising the stakes never hurts to get party guests excited about it.
2. Go toe-to-toe with a game of horseshoes
Continuing the equestrian theme, the game of horseshoes is a fun challenge for your hand-eye coordination in any context, but especially at a Derby Day party! Buying a horseshoe set is also quite affordable.
3. Place bets on the winners the Derby way
Betting is an integral part of the Derby Day festivities. If you’ve never done it before, follow this Betting 101 guide, and perhaps you’ll be the lucky winner who takes home half the pool!
4. Host an epic fancy hat contest
One of the elements of the Kentucky Derby that’s most famous is the fashion—more specifically, the incredibly fancy hats that many attendees wear. Ask your guests to wear their fanciest hats and let them know that the person whose hat wins will get a lovely prize.
5. Grab your mint juleps and play the Kentucky Derby drinking game
This simple Derby-themed drinking game includes four rounds and makes the festivities that much more fun and exciting. Just be sure to drink responsibly and pace yourself!
Find more inspiration for your Derby Day by using our fabulous Kentucky Derby party ideas as your guide!
