And we’re off to the races this Saturday, with the Kentucky Derby set to go on even without the horse who was favored to win, Omaha Beach, who was sidelined yesterday due to an entrapped epiglottis. As in past years, we’ve rounded up some of the many watch parties happening at watering holes all over the borough, so you can watch your horse do its victory lap surrounded by the proper amount of behatted revelers lubed up on mint juleps.
If you really want to blow it out for the 194th annual Run for the Roses, consider the Brooklyn Derby party at Greenwood Park. Tickets aren’t cheap at $85 each, but that includes a 4-hour open bar commercing at 4pm, live bluegrass music, costumes galore, a parade of hats, and the knowledge that you have gotten the most out of this event that you can barring an actual trip to Churchill Downs. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key (and less aggressive on your wallet), Pete’s Candy Store is hosting its last-ever Derby Party, featuring juleps, tacos, and wagers, starting at 3pm. You can also catch the races amidst a sea of seersucker at Mable’s Smokehouse, Parklife, Threes Brewing, and Berg’n, each of which is hosting a viewing party with costume contests and drink specials.
