In a night of history, fashion, food and sport, the 136th Kentucky Derby will have everyone on the edge of their seats at some of the Valley’s Derby-devoted parties on May 1.
Bourbon Steak
The Fairmont Scottsdale steakhouse will be hosting the “Millionaires’ Row Kentucky Derby Lawn Party” from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. While guests sip on bourbon or some mint juleps, they can enjoy a traditional game of horseshoes on the lawn or make a wager on the big race. Ladies on the lawn can bring their most stylish hats, in hopes of winning wonderful prizes. A featured drink, called the “Seersucker Cocktail” was even created for the event by Mina Group Beverage Director Noah Ellis. Tickets are $65 and all benefits go to Thunderbird Charities. 480.513.6002, www.michaelmina.net
The Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa
“A Derby Affair” will be taking place on the lawns of the resort from 1-4:30 p.m. on Saturday. As guests enjoy delicious Southern food they can view the race from the big screens. As everyone mixes and mingles, wagering on the event, all of the proceeds will go to Homeward Bound, an organization that provides transitional housing to people who are homeless or fleeing domestic violence. Tickets are from $350 to $50,000 for a private bungalow. 602.374.8710, www.aderbyaffair.org
BLT Steak
The restaurant at Scottsdale’s Camelback Inn will also be hosting an event from 1-5 p.m. Saturday. Alongside the Best Derby Hat contest will be the Zaniest Derby Hat Contest. The chefs have also cooked up a special Kentucky menu for the day featuring dishes like a delicious Beef Short Rib Burgoo and Rock Shrimp and Cheesy Grits. They will also be serving Prohibition-era cocktails for $12 including Racing for Roses, featuring Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Sence Rose Nectar, Cointreau, strawberry essence and sparkling wine as well as the Bluegrass Moon, which includes Grey Goose Le Orange, crème de violette and lemon. Tickets are $30. 480.905.7979, www.bltscottsdale.com/
Cinco de Sandbar
For a fun twist on the Derby, check out what’s going on at Cinco de Sandbar in Chandler. As Island Magic Steel Drum Band pounds out some tunes, you can watch a race of your own—a Chihuahua race! There is also a $300 prize in the Derby Hat Contest. Drink specials like $3.50 Dos Equis and $5.00 juleps will be served all day to help kick off the restaurant’s Cinco de Mayo festivities. 480.961.1700, www.sandbaraz.com
