Saturday, May 4th marks the return of the longest running sporting event in United States history – the Kentucky Derby. The race, dubbed “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” dates back to 1875 and hasn’t missed a year since, surviving the Great Depression, both World Wars, and more recently, the pandemic in 2020.
Considering the Kentucky Derby is known as a celebration of southern culture in the United States, Maine isn’t the biggest celebrator of the horse race, but we like any excuse to drink mint juleps and wear a big goofy hat, so we sought out the best places to be this Saturday.
What’s your favorite way to celebrate the Kentucky Derby? Head to our Facebook and Instagram pages and let us know! Did we miss an event? Email info@portlandoldport.com and let us know.
Dock Fore: Get pints of PBR and Miller High Life for only $1.95 from 3-7PM, compete in contests and win a prize for Best Hat. Authentic Mint Juleps will also be available. Looking to get the party started early? Dock Fore will be streaming the Arsenal vs Spurs at 7:30AM.
Rigby Yard: In collaboration with Maker’s Mark, the Rigby Yard team will once again be hosting their Annual Kentucky Derby Party to mark the 150th Kentucky Derby. Experience the thrill of the live Derby as you sip on classic Mint Juleps and indulge in delicious Hot Brown Sandwiches. There will be exciting gifts, photo opportunities, and thrilling prizes. Be sure to dress to impress in your finest derby gear for a chance to win best dressed prizes! Spaces are limited so be sure to book.
The Porthole: It’s off to races at The Porthole as they celebrate their Hard Deck Opening Weekend alongside the Kentucky Derby. Get out your fascinators and dapper fits! Enjoy live music by The Cover Tones at 2 PM and Sugarbox at 6 PM.
Bissell Brothers: Meet in the Bissell Brothers taproom on Saturday live coverage of the race starting at 2:30PM with the big race kicking off just before 7PM. They’ll have some special cocktails available (try the Mint Julep, y’all!) and will be decorating for the occasion… Derby Day attire encouraged.
Porttown Public House: Join in your stylish attire and extravagant headwear for a day filled with celebration. This Old Port pub and bar will be offering delicious $5 mint juleps throughout the day! Open at 11AM.
Commercial Street Pub: Don’t miss a second of the race! With ten TVs Commercial Street Pub has become a go-to spot for catching all the sports action. Commercial Street Pub will be streaming the Kentucky Derby live.
The Portland Club: Watch the Kentucky Derby in style at The Portland Club’s 5th Annual Kentucky Derby Party. Festivities include fancy hats, mint juleps, Southern-inspired snacks, and of course, the watching of the thrilling race – streaming live on the big screens. Don’t forget to dress to impress in your best derby attire! Prizes will be awarded for the most stylish outfits. Party runs from 5PM – 9PM and tickets available online.
Fleet Fleet Maine Running: Let the horses have a breather, and do the running yourself with the Dash for the Derby 5K, starting at Fleet Fleet Maine Running shoe store on Marginal Way. Registration is $30 and the race starts 9AM on Saturday, May 4th.
