Due to the coronavirus pandemic, “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” will look a lot different this year. There will be no fans in the stands at Churchill Downs, but the 146th Kentucky Derby will still run on September 5th.
Whether you’re planning a small gathering or celebrating with friends and family online, this year’s Derby-at-home will be a new sort of fun! Join in the singing of “My Old Kentucky Home” from the comfort of your couch, bet on your favorite horses, and don your iconic Derby hat to honor long-standing traditions. Pretend you’re sitting trackside with this fun virtual background, or get the kids involved with party decor by making paper flower fascinators, horse puppets, and jockey silk garlands.
Create a menu of traditional Southern fare to achieve the full Kentucky Derby experience. Start the day strong with a protein-packed Grits Breakfast Bowl – paired with a cup of fresh fruit and glass of milk, you’ll be ready to run the roses! Show your unbridled enthusiasm by serving Kentucky bourbon marinated Steak Bites, Kentucky Beer Cheese or Louisville classics like The World-Famous Hot Brown and creamy Benedictine. For a sweet finish, this classic Bread Pudding recipe will have you chomping at the bit!
It wouldn’t be Derby-at-home unless you relax with a Classic Mint Julep, but take care to also provide your guests with nonalcoholic beverage options. It doesn’t get more Kentucky than milk, which is the official beverage of the Commonwealth! With 9 essential nutrients, including 8 grams of high-quality protein, rest assured your guests will leave the party feeling satisfied.
America’s greatest race may not be the celebration we are used to during this challenging time, but it was necessary to re-examine the odds and place a bet on the health, safety, and security of our community. Whatever you wager this weekend, whether your horse wins or not, be sure to toast to togetherness while 6 feet apart!
