May 1, 2024

Where to watch the 150th Kentucky Derby in Charlotte

These Charlotte area restaurant and bars are set for the Running of the Roses

by TM Petaccia

The starting gates for the 150th Kentucky Derby will spring open at 6:45 p.m. this Saturday, May 4. A number of Charlotte area restaurants and bars will host special events and specials leading up to the fastest two minutes in sports. Here’s a quick list. Don’t forget your hat.

The Ballantyne Hotel, Ballantyne
Kentucky Derby on the South Lawn is an open-to-the-public event featuring Woodford Reserve and Maker’s Mark specialty cocktails, mint juleps, food options, and exclusive cigars—all à la carte. Family-friendly festivities include photo opportunities with horses, pony rides, and the best hat competition.

Dram & Draught, Uptown
This watch party includes mint julep and other specials, best hat/best-dressed competitions, and raffles. 3-8 p.m. No admission fee, but reservations highly suggested.

Búho Bar, Grand Bohemian Hotel, Uptown
Jockeys & Juleps. Búho’s rooftop is the stage for a late afternoon of whiskey and hors d’oeuvres. Your $50 ticket ($60 if purchased the day of) includes a welcome mint julep, a commemorative cup, Woodford Bourbon tasting, chef-selected hors d’oeuvres, and door prizes (including prizes for best hat and best bowtie). Tickets online.

The Mint Museum/Randolph, Eastover
The Young Affiliates of the Mint hosts its 33rd Annual Derby Day, 3-7 p.m. The fundraiser funds tours of The Mint Museum for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools students to inspire a new generation of artists, art enthusiasts, and leaders. $70 gives you access to live music, lawn games, mint juleps, open wine and beer, food trucks, photo backdrops, raffles, a best hat/best-dress contest, and a large-screen viewing of the race. 21+ only. Tickets online (registration required).

RSVP, South End
The Charlotte Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity hosts its 7th annual Derby party from 3 to 8 p.m. This public event features a selection of food, cocktails, cigars, and hookahs—plus area DJs before and after the race. $30-$300. Tickets online.

Sophia’s Lounge, Uptown
Special viewing party event, 4-7 p.m. $95 gets you red carpet entrance, one glass of Champagne upon arrival, two drink vouchers, passed and stationed hors d’oeuvres, a separate whiskey tasting, Kentucky Derby-themed dinner buffet, party favors, and eligibility for the best hat/best-dressed contest. Tickets online.

Woman’s Club of Rock Hill, Rock Hill
Hosting their first Kentucky Derby event, $65 gets you heavy hors d’oeuvres, mint juleps, and oak lilies. Festivities include raffles, garden games, and best hat/best bowtie contests. Tickets online.

The following, while not doing special events will be having Derby-related food and drink specials:

Billy Sunday, Optimist Park
Bin 110, Cornelius
Clutch Kitchen & Pour House, Third Ward
The Crunkleton, Elizabeth
Jackalope Jacks, Plaza Midwood
Lore Brewing Company, Ft. Mill
Streetcar Bar + Bites, Wesley Heights
The Bar @ Supperland, Plaza Midwood
Sycamore Brewing/South End
The Vintage Whiskey & Cigar Bar, South End/Gastonia