Though it’s not Kentucky, Portland enjoys the Kentucky Derby enough to have a few parties around town. Find oversized hats, mint juleps, southern fare, seersuckers suits, and live streaming of the races at these six spots celebrating the most exciting two minutes in sports. 

 

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EaT is throwing its tenth annual Kentucky Derby party this year, one of the longest running Derby parties in town. The Southern restaurant is celebrating with a crawfish boil, complete with extra spicy crawfish, potatoes, corn, and mushrooms. To cool off, find mint juleps and a beer brewed in collaboration with Lompoc Brewing, the Post Time Peachy Pilsner, and the best dressed group gets a $50 gift-card to the restaurant. Crawfish will be available at 12:30 PM, and will go quickly. (3808 N Williams Ave. #122; 503-281-1222)

 

The stellar Hazelfern Cellars winery in Newberg is throwing its second annual “Derby de Mayo”, a combination of Cinco de Mayo and the Kentucky Derby, as well as a launch party for its summer rosé of pinot noir. Mash-up Cinco/Derby costumes are strongly encouraged, and the event will have live music, food, Derby related games, and plenty of Hazelfern wine. The party runs from noon to 5 PM, and admission is $70. Tickets are available here. (4008 NE Zimri Dr., Newberg, OR 97132; 503-928-1893)

 

Neighborhood pub and soccer bar North 45 is celebrating the Kentucky Derby as classic as possible, with copper cups of mint juleps and food specials, and plenty of fancy dress. A costume contest will run from noon to 1 PM, with the winner getting a $100 gift-card to the restaurant. Three large screens will be playing the races, including a drop down projector screen on the sunlit patio. The party costs $15 ($20 at the door), with tickets available here, and benefits Ronald McDonald Charity House. (517 NW 21st Ave. 503- 248-6317)

 

Southern-inspired restaurant Patton Maryland is hosting a lawn party, complete with Derby garb and live music from Quadraphonnes Sax Quartet. Southern eats, mint juleps in copper mugs, and more will be served, while the screens show the most exciting two minutes in sports. Plus, find a horse betting board and raffle prizes like gift cards, hats, t-shirts, fancy picnic basket, cruiser bicycle, and beach trip. The event starts at noon and runs until 6 PM. Tickets are $10 and available here or at the door, while VIP tickets are $30, and include a welcome cocktail, sunglasses, and gift card to the restaurant. A portion of the proceeds go to benefit Ainsworth Elementary School. (5101 N Interstate Ave.; 503-841-6176)

 

Venerable drag performer Poison Waters will be MCing the Derby party at McMenamins’ Mission Theater this year, as well as judging the best hats for the occasion. The bar staff will be whipping up some juleps, as well as other Derby inspired cocktails and dishes. The event runs from 1 until 4 PM, and has no cover. (1624 NW Glisan St.; 503-223-4527)

 

The Leftbank Annex event space is playing host to the Portland Derby this year, with a host of activities. The day kicks off at 10 AM with a complimentary brunch until noon. Raffle prizes and best dressed are announced at 2 PM, with the races at 3:45 and a dance party from 4 to 6 PM. Glasses of G.H. Mumm Champagne will be $15, cocktails including juleps will cost $10, beer and cider $5, and food $5 to $8; all cash only. Entrance to the event is $45, and tickets are available here. (101 N Weidler St.; 503-928-6437)