The 152nd annual Kentucky Derby is set to take place on May 2, 2026. Unlike most sporting events, the derby is jokingly known as “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” Though the race is short, the party lasts all day.
While you may not be able to make it all the way to Churchill Downs in Louisville to see the race, there are several spots around town where you can get in on the action.
<div id="c3be0912bb716eee4ca644c1dfc4ecde4"></div>So, dust off your oversized hats and seersucker and find out where you can sip on mint juleps and cheer on your favorite racehorse in Tampa Bay with these derby watch parties.
Kentucky Derby Watch Parties in Tampa Bay
Kentucky Derby Day at Tampa Bay Downs
- Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
- Location: Tampa Bay Downs
Make your way to Tampa Bay Downs for an exciting live racing card, followed by the simulcast of the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby, complete with Mint Juleps and a souvenir Derby glass!
Armature Works Kentucky Derby Watch Party
- Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026, 12 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
- Location: Armature Works
Experience all the excitement of race day at Armature Works for a live streaming of the Kentucky Derby! Dress to impress in your best Derby attire and take part in a day full of unique experiences, including a stylish photo op to capture your race-day look, custom bottle engraving, and more.
Derby Day Soiree: Run for the Roses
- Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026, 3 p.m.-8 p.m.
- Location: The Westin Tampa Bay
Palmette Brasserie and Bar is transforming for the ultimate Derby day party full of southern charm, craft cocktails, food, and more! There will be a best dressed and best hat contest, so be sure to come in your ultimate Derby day outfit.
Derby at the Pier
- Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026, 3 p.m.-9 p.m.
- Location: Spa Beach Park, St. Pete Pier
Enjoy one of Tampa Bay's largest derby watch patch parties with waterfront views, drinks, and plenty of race day excitement!
Rialto Tea Room Kentucky Derby Watch Party
- Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026, 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
- Location: Rialto Theatre, Tampa Heights
Enjoy a live streaming of the Kentucky Derby in refined style with cocktails, appetizers, and big race day energy!
Tampa Bay UK Alumni Club 2026 Kentucky Derby Party
- Date: Saturday, Mar 2, 2026, 4 p.m.-8 p.m.
- Location: 4775 34th St. South, St. Pete
Run for the roses with the UK Alumni Club, complete with a commemorative glass and a mint julep for RSVP reservations.
Tampa Derby Day
- Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026, 4 p.m.
- Location: 6500 Motor Enclave Way, Tampa
Enjoy a Tampa Derby Day Party at The Motor Enclave with themed fun while backing the Tampa Alumni Guide Right Foundation Inc’s mission to guide young people toward academic success and personal growth!
For more fun things going on around town, check out our picks for the Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Week.