1. The Famous Neons Unplugged Derby Day Soiree
Complete with Fancy Derby Hat and Dapper Dude contests, Neons is going all out for its inaugural Kentucky Derby Party. The festivities are sponsored by Old Forester, and Taste 513 will be serving up some southern-style grub for attendees to enjoy. Sit on the patio and sip on Molly’s own mint juleps while listening to American folk jams by the Buffalo Wabs and the Price Hills Hustle until the race begins. Saturday, May 3, 2–7 pm, 208 E 12th St., Over-the-Rhine, (513) 827-9361, neons-unplugged.com
2. The Big Race at Belterra Park
Formally known as River Downs, this new racino has its grand opening on May 1, followed by a Derby Day party on May 3. While there won’t be any live racing at Belterra until May 8, guests 18 and up are invited to place wagers on the broadcasted Kentucky Derby races all day long. Saturday, May 3, starting at 10 am, 6301 Kellogg Ave, Anderson Township, (513) 232-8000, belterrapark.com
3. Party at Turfway Park
Rain or shine, the party at Turfway Park is guaranteed to be hopping. Derby food and drink specials will be served throughout the day, and guests can also participate in hat and handicapping contests. The Kentucky Derby will be broadcast, and you can also check out live music by DV8. Admission and parking are free, so all you have to do is show up. Saturday, May 3, noon–8 pm, 7500 Turfway Rd., Florence, (859) 371-0200, turfway.com
4. Derby Day Party at Laurel Court
This Derby party has an ulterior motive: to raise money for the College Hill Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation (CHCURC). Tickets are $75 in advance or $85 at the door. All guests receive complimentary mint juleps and are invited to participate in the hat contest and silent auctions. 5870 Belmont Ave., College Hill, chcurc.com
5. Kentucky Derby Party at Parkers Blue Ash Tavern
Join in on the fun at Parkers Blue Ash Tavern for their first-ever Derby party. Tickets are $10, and 50 percent of the proceeds go to benefit the Special Olympics program at Winton Woods Riding Center. The price of admission includes a variety of food, including Parkers Paddock Pie and Benedictine Sandwiches. Stick around for the contests and raffles for a chance to win free brunch or dinner for two—or a commemorative stainless steel julep cup. 4200 Cooper Rd., Blue Ash, (513) 891-8300, selectrestaurants.com/parkersblue
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