Anniversary Tips to Surprise Your Partner
March 17, 2023Fun Kids DIY Easter Bunny Activity
March 29, 2023The Perfect Kentucky Derby Party
Are you ready to throw the perfect Kentucky Derby party? Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply a gathering of friends, the Kentucky Derby is one of the most exciting times of the year. From decorations and recipes to drinks and entertainment, here are some great ideas to ensure your party is a smashing success! Let’s start by discussing derby party décor, recipes for traditional southern dishes, and creative drink ideas. With these tips in hand, you can be sure your guests will have an unforgettable experience at your Kentucky Derby party!
Derby Party Décor
Flower walls can be made from real or everlasting silk flowers, depending on their intended use. For the perfect Kentucky Derby backdrop we recommend using an assortment of silk, dried or even plastic flowers. Your flower wall creation doesn’t have to break the bank, but it will be the center of attention as your guests strike a pose in front of your DIY masterpiece. You can even add different size apple boxes to create a mock podium to stay on theme! Check out this great video on how to make your own!
Recipe for a Traditional Southern Dish
While the main course is always the highlight of the event, we like to think the appetizer sets the stage and ensures that your guests can get a clear picture of what to expect for the rest of the event. We love this delicious Warm Cheese and Spicy Pecan Dip we found on Southern Living. This easy to make recipe is always sure to please your guest!
Ingredients
2 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 cup mayonnaise
4 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup), divided
2 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (about 1⁄2 cup), divided
4 teaspoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup Spicy Pecans
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
Toasted baguette slices, for serving
Directions
First, preheat oven to 375°F. Pulse cream cheese and mayonnaise in a food processor until smooth.
Then toss 3⁄4 cup of the Cheddar and 1⁄4 cup of the Monterey Jack with cornstarch in a medium bowl until coated. Stir in cream cheese mixture, salt, and pepper. Spoon into a 1-quart baking dish, and top with remaining 1⁄4 cup each Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
Bake in preheated oven until golden and bubbling around the edges, about 15 minutes. Remove from oven; sprinkle with Spicy Pecans. Cool 5 minutes; sprinkle with chives. Serve with toasted baguette slices.
Creative Derby Drink Ideas
A Mint Julep is a classic when it comes to Derby drinks, but not all mint juleps are created equal. Follow our recipe for the perfect concoction of bourbon, simple syrup and mint that will make you feel like you’re right in on the action.
Ingredients
mint sprig
5 mint leaves
1 oz simple syrup or .50 oz rich simple syrup
2 ounces bourbon
Instructions
Clap the mint leaves between your hands to release the oils, rub the inside of the glass with them, place them in the bottom of the glass.
Fill glass with crushed ice.
Add in simple syrup, bourbon and fill the glass with ice until it mounds over the top.
Garnish with mint sprig.
The Kentucky Derby is one of the most popular events of the year, and hosting a Kentucky Derby Party is a great way to join in on the excitement. Don’t miss out on the fun of your own party, hire Party Host Helpers to take care of it all. From general helpers, dishwashers, to food prepping, and bartenders for hire, Party Host Helpers is your one-stop-shop for all your staffing needs!