Tips for The Kentucky Derby 

Y’all, I could not be more excited as I type these words: I am going to the Kentucky Derby!!!

We moved to the Cincinnati, Ohio area almost four years ago, and since that day I have been learning a lot. One thing I learned is that I am geographically and directionally challenged…How did I not know that Cincinnati was right on the border of Kentucky??? 

With that, I learned some things about Kentucky. Like that the bourbon from Texas is not actually bourbon…and that I HAD to put the Kentucky Derby on my bucket list.

Lo and behold, I open up an email from a sweet woman, Danielle…inviting me to promote the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby. By the end of our conversations, not only was I going to promote from home but I was going to be able to attend the actual events!  

As soon as Rob heard, he lost it…and then he promptly began planning his outfits!  Y’all. I can’t wait for you to see how he looks-so cute in his suits and hats, he took it to anotha levellll!!! But are we really surprised? Rob G likes to say I’m the extra one, but we all know the truth 😂

I told everyone on Instagram that I was going, and threw up a question box… “Gimme all the advice you have!” Well, my peeps delivered. If you are planning to attend the Kentucky Derby Race Weekend and want to make the most out of your experience, I have compiled a list of their helpful tips to ensure that you have a great time at the Kentucky Derby.

Oaks Event:

This is on Friday, and I have been told it’s become just as important as Derby Day on Saturday! The Oaks and Derby are the oldest continuously contested sporting events in history, and the Longines Kentucky Oaks was modeled after the British Epsom Oaks. It’s all about the ladies, featuring the Survivors parade, which is why everyone wears pink! The Finlandia Oaks Lily drink became the official cocktail of the Oaks in 2006.  I mean, they needed something special since Derby Day has the Mint Julep! I made one using the official recipe and it was delicious!

What to Wear to Derby Weekend:

HATS!

Fascinators and hats are a must, and the bigger and more outlandish, the better. It’s tradition! I’m more of a classic low-key hat person (if you know me, I just got my first real hat because my head is so small!) so I’ll probably go with less is more, but here are a few from several places.  

You can have one custom-made on Etsy, get one from Amazon or find what you need at several retailers. Milliners in Kentucky are known for their custom pieces, so you may want one made from a local Milliner who knows what’s up!

Dresses:

I was told that floral or bright colors or bold patterns are appropriate for Kentucky Derby Weekend.  Here are several options!

Shoes:

When you attend the Kentucky Derby, you must plan for lots of walking. The trek from parking to Churchill Downs is quite long, so everyone said that no matter how cute my shoes are, I must bring a pair of flip flops or flats that will fit into my handbag (which for the derby must be smaller than 12x6x12) So, I am definitely heeding that advice! 

Now don’t get me wrong, for the gram I’m wearing over the top shoes but changing into flip flops for walking! 

Weather:

Be prepared for the heat AND have a plan in case of rain. Layer as needed, and bring a poncho in case you’re in an uncovered area. Check the weather ahead of time and have a plan B! Something to cover your hat in case of rain is also key. I am bringing a clear poncho, hat cover and a thin lightweight scarf.

Other Tips:

• Drink lots of water to stay hydrated
• Bring a large ziplock bag to collect your drink cups as people tend to collect them.
• Bring toilet paper or wet wipes, as I have been told that they sometimes run out of toilet paper.
• Don’t wear Spanx, as it can get hot and it will be hard to peel them off to use the bathroom!
• Bring a pen like a thin sharpie to write on shiny paper.
• Mentally prepare yourself for the crowds
• Consider attending Kentucky “Thurby” on Thursday for cheaper tickets and a more laid-back atmosphere. 
• Bring sunscreen and hand sanitizer
• Make reservations at restaurants far in advance.
• Allergies are no joke this time of year in Kentucky, so come prepped with all of your favorite allergy solutions!

My checklist:

• Pink for the oaks event 
• Big hat or fascinator 
• Clear poncho 
• Flip flops or flats 
• Bag or cover for hats 
• Thin sharpie pen for bets
• Allergy meds
• Toilet paper/wipes
• Hand Sanitizer
• Large thin scarf

In conclusion, these tips will help you have a fantastic time at the Kentucky Derby. Be prepared for the weather and walking, wear a big and bold hat, dress in fun clothes, and stay hydrated. With these tips in mind, you’ll have an unforgettable experience at the Kentucky Derby!