Celebrate the Kentucky Derby in Tampa Bay

The 150th annual Kentucky Derby is set to take place on May 4, 2024. Unlike most sporting events, the derby is jokingly known as “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” Though the race is short, the party lasts all day.

While you may not be able to make it all the way to Churchill Downs in Louisville to see the race, there are several spots around town where you can get in on the action. So, dust off your oversized hats and seersucker and find out where you can sip on mint juleps and cheer on your favorite racehorse in Tampa Bay with these derby watch parties.

Keep checking back as more are added!

Kentucky Derby Day at Tampa Bay Downs

Saturday, May 4 at 10 am

11225 Race Track Rd., Tampa

This Oldsmar race track hosts one of the biggest derby parties around. Tampa Bay Downs offers an exciting live racing card along with the simulcast of the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby. Mint juleps will be sold here in the official souvenir Derby glass. General admission and VIP box seats are available. $10-$350 per person.

Jockeys & Juleps 2024 at The Orlo

Saturday, May 4 at 4:30 pm

315 S. Plant Ave, Tampa

This gala is Tampa Bay’s premier party with a purpose, hosted by the Associate Board of Ambassadors,. a branch of the American Cancer Society. Enjoy food, beverage, and music with the iconic flair of the Kentucky Derby. Funds raised go toward the Tampa Hope Lodge, a locally based American Cancer Society program.

Kentucky Derby Watch Party at c. 1949 Florida Beer Garden

Saturday, May 4 from 5 pm-9 pm

6905 N. Orleans Ave, Tampa

Choose the winning horse and have your entire beer tab forgiven! Wear your best derby hat for a chance to win prizes and an automatic 15% off your tab. Hat judging will begin at 6 pm. Taqueria Emmauel will also be there serving up food.

Kentucky Derby Watch Party at The Epicurian

Saturday, May 4 at 3 pm

1207 S. Howard Ave., Tampa

Come in derby attire and receive a complimentary champagne toast. Enjoy $12 mint juleps and food specials such as spicy pimento cheese, street corn hush puppies, deviled eggs, and more.

Kentucky Derby Pub Crawl

Saturday, May 4 from 2 pm-7pm

5419 Treadway Dr., New Port Richey

The pub crawl will kick off at Gill Dawg Tiki Bar and Grill. Take part in a hat contest, purchase 50/50 tickets and horse envelope game tickets, a live horse auction, drawings for prizes, and more! Tickets range from $20-$300.

For more fun things going on around town, check out our picks for the Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Week.