The mint julep is the traditional drink of the Churchill Downs, but there’s more than one way to fill your cup on Derby Day. Try one of these 15+ other Kentucky Derby cocktail recipes for a tailgate or viewing party.
I do love a mint julep and you should definitely include the classic cocktail on your Kentucky Derby party menu, along with Kentucky Derby Trifecta pie and Benedictine spread.
But like any good host or hostess, you want to offer your guest options at the bar.
I’ve rounded up a collection of the best Kentucky Derby cocktails featuring bourbon and other spirits. You’ll find even more beverage ideas here to serve for all the Triple Crown races — the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness and the Belmont Stakes.
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🌹 What Drinks Do They Serve at the Kentucky Derby?
The most popular Derby drink is the classic mint julep, made with bourbon, simple syrup, mint and crushed ice and served in a frosty cup. A julep is a race day staple, like chocolate pecan pie and Bendectine sandwiches.
More than 120,000 juleps are served at Churchill Downs on Derby Day.
But you’ll find other cocktails and drinks on the menu, too, including
- Bourbon Old Fashioned
- Finlandia Oaks Lily
- Whiskey Sour
- Apple Cider Martini
- Apple Cider Mule
- Hot Buttered Boubon
- Bourbon-Spiked Lemonade
- sweet tea (with and without bourbon)
🥃 Classic Cocktails
Classic cocktails are definitely on the bar menu for the Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes.
Serve one of these tasty twists on the classics. Click the buttons below each photo to access the full recipes, including ingredient lists and instructions.
Mint Julep Cocktails
I couldn’t leave the Churchill Downs favorite off the list. It’s a signature of the Kentucky Derby, after all.
Learn how to make a classic mint julep cocktail, or try one of several different variations. You’ll find even more mint julep recipes here.
You’ll find the complete recipes by clicking on the Full Recipe buttons below each photo.
🍷 Fruity Kentucky Derby Cocktails
There’s nothing more refreshing on a warm day than a fruity cocktail.
These citrus libations really hit the spot, and they’re also so pretty in a glass.
The aqua buttons below each photo will take you to the full recipes.
🍋 Kentucky Lemonade, Tea & Limeade Cocktails
Kentucky bourbon and whiskey pair well with lemonade, limeade and iced tea. You’ll enjoy these adults-only versions of the summertime refreshers.
For ingredient lists and full instructions, select the Full Recipe button below each photo.
Punch Recipes for a Crowd
If you don’t want to spend the entire party bartending, mix up a batch of punch to serve.
Guests can help themselves while you mingle and watch the horse racing.
For full printable instructions and ingredient lists, just hit the Full Recipe button below each photo.
🐎 More Kentucky Derby Party Ideas & Recipes
Looking for more Kentucky Derby cocktails, party idea and recipes? Check out these posts:
- DIY Horse Drink Stirrers
- Kentucky Derby Party Ideas
- Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe
- Kentucky Derby Pie
- Champagne Red Velvet Cupcakes
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