St. Louis – it’s time to don your finest Derby-day fashion and saddle up for one of the classiest parties of the season! On Saturday, May 3 from 1–6 p.m., Westport Plaza is transforming into a little slice of Churchill Downs right in the heart of the Lou, and you’re invited to join the celebration. Whether you’re in it for the fashion, the bourbon, or the thrill of the race, this Kentucky Derby watch party is the place to be.

Presented by Four Roses Bourbon, the event promises Southern charm and St. Louis flair all rolled into one. The iconic “Run for the Roses” will be shown live on a massive outdoor screen, so you won’t miss a single second of the most exciting two minutes in sports. But this is more than just a watch party—it’s a full-on Derby experience.

🎺 The trumpet will sound, just like at Churchill Downs, signaling it’s time to grab your Mint Julep and get ready to cheer on your horse. Speaking of which—betting squares will be set up throughout the plaza, so you can put your luck to the test and maybe even walk away a winner (no actual betting, just good ol’ fashioned prizes).

🎶 Music lovers will enjoy the soulful sounds of The Blake Gardner Band, keeping the good times rolling all afternoon with a mix of feel-good jams and high-energy entertainment.

👒 Got a flair for fashion? Don’t forget your Derby best! There’ll be prizes for Best Hat, both for the ladies and the gents—so bring your A-game with feathered fascinators, oversized brims, and dapper bowties.

🍹 Of course, no Derby party would be complete without a full bar, including the signature drink of the day: the Mint Julep—a cool, refreshing mix of bourbon, mint, and sugar that’s been a staple of the Kentucky Derby since 1938. Fun fact: nearly 120,000 Mint Juleps are served during Derby weekend at Churchill Downs alone!

🎁 Keep an eye out for giveaways throughout the day, and come ready to celebrate one of the most iconic American traditions with a distinctly St. Louis twist.

Westport Plaza has long been one of the city’s favorite spots for events like this, and this year’s Derby party is no exception. Whether you’re a hardcore horse racing fan, a casual Mint Julep enthusiast, or just someone looking for a fun afternoon in the sun, this event has something for everyone.

So grab your crew, bring your style, and let’s make this Kentucky Derby Party in STL one to remember!


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By Richie

I'm a 40-year-old father blessed with two wonderful children: a 13-year-old daughter and a 10-year-old son. My life revolves around my beautiful wife, who is the cornerstone of our family. Without her unwavering support, none of what I do would be possible. By day, I serve as a network administrator for a local school district, ensuring smooth operations in the realm of technology. During the evenings, you'll often find me engrossed in various creative pursuits, from illustrating books to crafting websites or composing music. But above all, my priority is spending quality time with my kids. Parenthood has been a profound journey of growth and discovery for me, and now, armed with a keyboard instead of a pen, I'm eager to share my experiences and insights with others.