Where to Watch the 2018 Kentucky Derby in Philadelphia

On Saturday, May 5, the country’s fastest horses will hit the track in Louisville, Kentucky for the 144th Kentucky Derby. Whether you’re a huge fan of the track or are just in it for the big hats and bow ties, here’s where to you can go to put sip your bourbon and watch the race in Philadelphia.

Visit this hotel bar for juleps, live music, and games. Prizes will be awarded to the best dressed couple, best hat and best bow tie. (1421 Arch St.)

 

Watch the Derby at this South Street bar with $8 Kentucky Mules (Old Forester, ginger beer, lime) and Bourbon Mint Juleps (Woodford Reserve, mint, simple syrup). (1508 South St.) 

 

Head to this Kensington gastropub for a twist on the classic julep. For $10 guests can sip the “Romeo and Julep” made with Old Grandad Bourbon, pineapple shrub and fresh mint. (2301 E. Albert St.)

A giant Kentucky Derby watch party awaits at this sports bar. Listen to live music from the Secret Service while enjoying $5 mint juleps and Angry Orchard Rosé. Don your best big hat and you could win $250. (1150 Filbert St.)

 

Gather your friends at Pagano’s huge outdoor Derby party this Saturday afternoon. They’ll be broadcasting the race on the jumbotron as well as hosting live music acts. There will be outdoor games, a best dressed contest, and a Derby drink list that includes mint juleps and maybe a few margaritas in honor of Cinco de Mayo. Best of all, the proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters. General admission tickets are $20 and include a raffle ticket and koozie; VIP tickets are $80 and include a select open bar, one free hand-crafted mint julep, a stainless mint julep cup, three raffle tickets and a koozie. (2001 Market St.)

 

Saturday, May 5, All Day 

Catch “the greatest two minutes in sports” at this Old City bar with “Julep Jawns” made with Knob Creek Rye, green chartreuse, simple syrup, mint, angostura—best of all they’re only $5. Food specials include shrimp and grits and deviled eggs.  (433 Chestnut St.)

 

Sip on $9 mint juleps and $5 happy hour bites including pimento grilled cheese, shrimp po’boys and Alabama smoked turkey tail at this South Street southern-style staple all day. (1516 South St.)

 

Rittenhouse American restaurant Square 1682 will offer a $10 Maker’s Mark julep to sip and free truffle popcorn to enjoy while watching the big race. (121 S 17th St.)

 

Visit this Headhouse Square southern spot for their annual outdoor Derby party featuring $6 mint juleps. All guests will be entered to win a commemorative Woodford Reserve Kentucky Derby bottle and other prizes will be awarded to guests with the best hat and best bow tie. (509 S 2nd St.)