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Kentucky Derby Festivities around Denver on May 3

2 girls brushing horses in their stable at Sky View Farm in Castle Rock
Mini Derby at Sky View Farm in Castle Rock, CO. Photo: Robin's Nest Foundation
May 2, 2025 by Matt Thomas

The Denver Metropolitan Area hosts many watch parties for the 151st annual Kentucky Derby. Dress for the occasion and attend one of the many events, ranging from parties at restaurants to mini-derbys on the farm.

It’s soon time again for the “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports”. All of the following events are happening on May 3rd, 2025, the official day of “The Run for the Roses”:

Deby Day at Wonderyard Garden + Table

Hand holding up a mint julep cocktail in copper cup at Wonderyard restaurant in Denver
Mint Julep from Wonderyard Garden + Table. Photo: Courtesy of Wonderyard

This bar and restaurant in Lower Downtown Denver kicks off their Derby Day Party at 10 am on Saturday May 3rd. Churchill Downs will be streamed on TVs across its covered patio. Enjoy a menu of traditional fare, including mint juleps and seasonal brunch bites. There will be games like horseshoes and contests for “Best Hat” and “Best Dressed,” so wear your favorite derby attire.

2200 Larimer St, Denver | 303-747-4899 | wonderyard.com

Off To The Races at ViewHouse

aerial view of Mint Julep glass at ViewHouse
Mint Julep. Photo: Courtesy of ViewHouse

With 4 locations across the Denver Metro, the ViewHouse is one of the most accessible places for a Kentucky Derby watch party. Known for their fun rooftop bars and views, all locations will stream the big race throughout their bar and restaurants. Each will host a “Best Dressed” and “Best Hat” contest, with prizes offered. The Ballpark location will feature a performance by Moses Jones in their courtyard.

2015 Market St, Denver | 720-878-2015 | viewhouse.com

5th Annual Mini-Derby at Sky View Farm

mini horse with number 2 uniform at Sky View Farm for Kentucky Derby Party
Mini horse at the Mini Derby at Sky View Farm. Photo: Robin’s Nest Foundation

Sky View Farm in Castle Rock hosts their 5th annual Mini Derby on Saturday, May 3rd from 1 pm to 5 pm. This non-profit event features miniature horse races, hobby horse races, live and silent auctions, food trucks, a petting zoo, wine and whiskey tastings, as well as live streaming of the 151st Kentucky Derby. Some of the charities benefiting from the Mini Derby include Mile High Equestrian & Rescue, Robin’s Nest Foundation, and Tall Tales Ranch, which support mental health and animal welfare.

1705 Outter Marker Rd, Castle Rock | 310-844-2627 | milehighrescue.org/cnpminiderby

Annual Kentucky Derby Party at St. Julien

overlooking the rear exterior of St. Julien Hotel in Boulder, Colorado
Rear of St. Julien in Boulder. Photo: Courtesy of St Julien Hotel & Spa

This 4-star hotel hosts its annual Kentucky Derby Day party from 1 pm to 5 pm on Saturday, May 3rd. The St. Julien is known for its elegance, and this event blends that alpine luxury with Southern charm. Sip on mint juleps, wear some fancy attire, and soak in the ambiance of the flatirons as you watch the races. The Maydays will play live music, there will be a derby hat contest, cigar hand rolling with Palma Cigar, and even puppy racing that benefits Mile High Canine Rescue.

900 Walnut St, Boulder | 720-406-9696 | eventbrite.com/…

TheBigWonderful at Belleview Station

holding up clear cup of beer with the state in the background at TheBigWonderful
TheBigWonderful festival in Denver. Photo by: thebigwonderful.com

This annual beer fest, bluegrass, and bazaar takes over Belleview Station once again on Derby Day. This annual celebration from 12 pm to 6 pm offers free admission to everyone. Once inside the gates at TheBigWonderful, you’ll buy your drink tokens and food. There is a VIP pass you can purchase for unlimited brewery and distillery tastings, plus non-alcoholic drinks. Dress in Kentucky Derby attire.

6751 East Chenango Avenue, Denver | thebigwonderful.com

Those are just a few of the Kentucky Derby Day events happening around Boulder, Denver, and Castle Rock. “Off to the races!”

Matt Thomas

About Matt Thomas

Matt is an avid writer and explorer, who loves to showcase his home state of Colorado. His favorite place to be is right here in the Centennial State.

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