<div id="c3be0912bb716eee4ca644c1dfc4ecde4"></div>The 150th annual Kentucky Derby is set to take place on May 3, 2025. 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. 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.
Derby Day Watch Party
- Saturday, May 3 | Doors Open at 12PM
- Mandarin Hide, St. Petersburg
Celebrate Derby Day with big hats, Southern charm, and Mint Julep specials all day. Dress in your Derby best and enjoy handcrafted cocktails at this lively watch party.
More details at mandarinhide.com.
Kentucky Derby Day at Tampa Bay Downs
- Saturday, May 3, 10am
- 11225 Race Track Rd., Tampa
This Oldsmar race track hosts one of the biggest derby parties around. Tampa Bay Downs offers an exciting live racing card along with the simulcast of the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby. Mint juleps will be sold here in the official souvenir Derby glass. General admission and VIP box seats are available. $10-$500 per person.
LiFT YOUR SPIRITS AT THE GARDEN DERBY PARTY
- Saturday, May 3 at 5 pmSt. Petersburg, Coliseum
Celebrate the Derby while supporting the non-profit LiFT (Learning Independence for Tomorrow). Dress in your Derby best, enjoy some custom cocktails and cuisine, raffles, and more!
Jockeys & Juleps 2025 at The Orlo
- Saturday, May 3 at 4:30 pm315 S. Plant Ave, Tampa
FLORIDA WIENER DOG DERBY XV -Jurassic Bark- with Riverfest
- Saturday, May 3 from 11 am-5 pm
- 600 North Ashley Drive Tampa, FL 33602
A full day of Doggone Fun for the whole family awaits you at the Florida Wiener Dog Derby. Come celebrate their 15th anniversary with the biggest and best wiener dog race in the world! They'll also have The Grand Raffle and the Silent Art Auction with a variety of items from sponsors and donors. Every Wiener and Wanna-Be is invited to join us for this spectacular day of competition.
Derby AT THE PIER 2025
- Saturday, May 3 from 3 pm-9 pm
- 615 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg
Dress to impress at the Spa Beach Park, featuring food trucks, live music, derby-themed games, and more! The event will benefit Academy Prep Center of St. Petersburg, CASA (Community Action Stops Abuse), and the Children’s Dream Fund. Tickets range from $35-$650.
A NIGHT AT THE Derby
- Saturday, May 3 at 5 pm
- 1001 Water St. Tampa, FL 33602
Join Boulon for an unforgettable evening as they celebrate A Night at the Derby, where the thrill of the races, iconic fashion, and Southern hospitality come together in style. Enjoy a live viewing of the Kentucky Derby with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, followed by a bourbon-paired dinner with Horse Soldier Bourbon.
The evening also includes:
- Bottle signing with Horse Soldier Bourbon
- Floral Bar
- Live DJ entertainment
- Best Dressed / Best Hat Contest
Support a meaningful cause through the “Tip Your Troops” initiative benefiting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation—Horse Soldier Bourbon will match all guest tips made during the event. Big hats, bold spirits, and a beautiful cause—it’s a Derby Night to remember! This prepaid experience can be booked through OpenTable here.
For more fun things going on around town, check out our picks for the Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Week.