TIPS:
* Dress up Derby Style! Purchase inexpensive hats at the craft store and provide ribbons and flowers for decorating…then have a contest for Most Festive Hat!
* Roll out the red carpet! Greet your guests with a red carpet and then use it later as a runway for everyone to model their decorated hats. (Provide boas for extra drama!)
*Horseshoes isn’t just a game! Get a flat of grass to use as a centerpiece with horseshoes and a stake in the center, and add roses for a winning touch!
*Pick the Winner! Besides the must-have pool you’ll be running for the winner of the big race, offer an additional pool for the first horse to come BACK over the finish line AFTER the race. It will keep your guests cheering even when the race is over!
*Mint Juleps Please! Serve this traditional derby drink in silver plastic tumblers or purchase inexpensive collectible tumblers online for everyone to take home with them as a parting gift.
* Mario’s Idea: The t.v. is going to be the center of attention, for sure. Why not put up a slide show of photos featuring past Derby winners, your favorite hats, whatever to play on the tv before or after the big race. Use Picnik.com to upload photos, create borders and trick everything out (basic membership is FREE.)
MENU IDEAS:
Go Southern. Remember that you want food that will do well hanging around for awhile. Tea sandwiches are perfect. If you want to fill up your guests, go with some that are a little heartier. Do a smoked brisket, make some chili out of it (chili in general would be a good idea IF it’s not too hot where you are.)
I found a great website that’s got tons of ideas for you too, check out: Suite 101 for Kentucky Derby Party Ideas by Megan Sheakoski.
If you’re not a huge fan of mint juleps, try this. I think it makes them a lot more enjoyable!
MINT JULEP RECIPE:
2 oz. PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur
2 oz. Evan Williams Bourbon (yes, it makes a difference)
2 Sprigs of fresh mint
2 Sugar cubes
Garnish: Pomegranate seeds and a sprig of fresh mint.
In a cocktail shaker, muddle 2 mint and sugar cubes with PAMA and bourbon. Add ice and shake ingredients vigorously, then strain into a traditional julep cup over crushed ice. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a sprig of fresh mint, then serve. LOVE IT!
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Have fun!!
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