Fundraisers And Fun Mark Boston’s Derby Day 2023 Celebrations

Beantown is all-in for the most exciting two minutes in sports this year, with a wealth of options for dressing to impress and sipping Mint Juleps. Many of the events are returning for the first time since 2019, so don your biggest hat, check the odds and cheer on the horses.

Down & Derby: For the first time since 2019, this Kentucky Derby celebration—ranked as one of the best parties outside of Louisville — takes over Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Ned Devine’s is transformed with a red-carpet entrance, best-dressed contest, complimentary hors d’oeuvres & dessert, derby games, and eight large screens broadcasting the race. A 50-50 raffle will raise money for the Love Life Now Foundation, a global awareness and education organization that supports survivors of domestic violence. Expect live performers like Louie Bello, trumpeters, and a DJ who will take the stage starting at 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $65 on Down & Derby’s website.

High Street Place: The spacious food hall hosts its second annual event from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m., starting with a Kentucky Derby bugler from Boston Music Project to greet guests and a custom turf carpet with a rose-laden wall for all your social media selfies. Like last year, attendees will watch the event on the largest LED video wall in the city, and can partake in an on-site 50/50 Raffle “betting window” with proceeds going to the Greater Boston Food Bank. In addition, guests can play casino games like black jack, roulette, and craps for gift cards and other Derby swag. There will be live music from Anna Daley Young, a DJ set by L’Duke, and prizes for best dressed, best hat, and the best dressed couple of the evening. Sip Mint Juleps from Daquiris & Daisies; a Run for the Rosé wine flight at Bubble Bath wine bar, and craft beer from Alewives Tap Room. Eats include Derby Day menu offerings from several of High Street Place’s food vendors —think Kentucky Hot Browns from Mamaleh’s. Admission ($50) includes one drink ticket. Tickets may be purchased here.

Cunard Tavern: Chef Anthony Pino brings back the annual Kentucky Derby celebration from 3 p.m. – 9 p.m. The entire restaurant—bar, main dining room, patio, and roof deck Top Deck—will have TVs showing the race. Prizes for best hat and best dressed alongside Mint Juleps and Derby-inspired appetizers. Access to TopDeck is limited to 40 people and requires a $15 ticket that includes a welcome cocktail.

Noir: Starting at 4 p.m., this French-inspired bar at the Charles Hotel will be hosting the Kentucky Derby Garden Soirée. Belles and Dandies can don their best julep-sipping attire to watch the iconic race on a projector in the garden of Noir. They will offer an impressive selection of bourbons, as well as a variety of rosés by the glass.

Nash Bar & Stage: What better spot to check out the Derby than the free viewing party, from 2 to 8 p.m., at this Southern-themed restaurant and entertainment venue. It will feature a best-dressed contest with prizes, live music, a build-your-own mint julep bar, photo ops, and Derby-themed food specials. While the tickets are free, reservations are strongly recommended by clicking HERE.

Shore Leave: From 4 p.m. – 8 p.m., the tiki lounge hosts celebrity guest bartenders Misty Kalkofen, Scott Marshall and Josey Packard for its first Kentucky Derby party. They’ll serve Mint Juleps and specialty cocktails with Ferrand Cognac and Uncle Nearest Whiskey. Each ticket includes two drinks, passed food, and your very own julep cup to take home. Prizes go to the Best Dressed of the night, so wear your biggest hat. Tickets are $85 per person and can be purchased here.