The annual I|O Godfrey Kentucky Derby party
The Kentucky Derby is almost here, and Chicagoans are gearing up for a day of lavish viewing parties and Southern-inspired libations on Saturday, May 3. Round up your crew and pay a visit to these Windy City faves to celebrate the 151st annual Run for the Roses in style.
View this post on Instagram
Head to French-American eatery Bar La Rue for an afternoon of Southern sophistication at the eatery’s Derby party, hosted from 3 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 3. Restaurant-goers will enjoy a live DJ, cocktails with Derby-inspired flair, a best-dressed contest with prizes, lively photo ops and more. Tickets can be purchased here. 820 W. Fulton St.
View this post on Instagram
Swing by coastal-inspired dining destination The Hampton Social to catch all of the Derby Day action from 2 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 3. While you’re there, sip signature H Rosé for half off and exclusive beverage specials like the mint julep, available for one day only. Restaurant-goers who dress to impress have the chance to win a $100 gift card from the best-dressed competition. Reservations can be made here. 353 W. Hubbard St.; 164 E. Grand Ave.
View this post on Instagram
Chicago institution Gene & Georgetti is commemorating Southern heritage and the legendary Churchill Downs racecourse with a one-day-only Kentucky Derby menu, stocked with highlights like Kentucky Hot Brown sandwiches, fried green tomatoes, Gene’s fried chicken, turtle cheesecake, themed cocktails and more. The annual event takes place from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, and is helmed by third-generation owner and equestrian Michelle Durpetti. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made here. 500 N. Franklin St.
View this post on Instagram
For the 11th consecutive year, year-round rooftop lounge I|O Godfrey is hosting its annual Kentucky Derby viewing event. This year, the Chicago mainstay has teamed up with boutique The Tie Bar to offer exclusive discounts, a special horse betting raffle and race-inspired fashion accessories. After doors open at noon, visitors can take part in bourbon-tasting classes, a Kentucky-inspired Derby Day menu, a themed photo booth, a Maker’s Mark wax dipping station, a best-dressed competition and more. Tickets can be purchased here. 127 W. Huron St.
View this post on Instagram
Visit this rooftop destination on Saturday, May 3, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. to partake in an extravagant Derby Day fête. Gaze out at panoramic skyline views while enjoying a full day of tasty bites, crave-worthy sips and captivating entertainment, including a Maker’s Mark bourbon tasting, live Derby viewing on giant screens, a Louisville-inspired buffet, a best-dressed contest, themed cocktails, live DJs, interactive performances and more. Reservations can be made here. 201 N. State St.
View this post on Instagram
On Saturday, May 3, Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants’ private event space, Salon 61, is hosting a Bourbon and Brims Race Watch Party in partnership with global sports platform Fanatics. From 3 to 6 p.m., guests can indulge in refreshing mint juleps and spritzes, dine on passed hors d’oeuvres, dance to live DJ beats and partake in a spirited best-dressed contest. Tickets to the event include a three-hour signature bar package, activations by Four Roses and Spritz del Conti, a live viewing of the race and more. Tickets can be purchased here. 61 W. Hubbard St.
View this post on Instagram
Visit Boka Restaurant Group’s River North event venue The Wellsley on Saturday, May 3, from 3 to 7 p.m., for an ultra-luxe Derby Day soirée. The event features a VIP lounge, Southern-inspired fare and themed cocktails. The live viewing party is elevated further with a best-dressed contest, beats from DJ Kareem and more. Tickets can be purchased here. 504 N. Wells St.
See also: The 21 Best Spots For Happy Hour In Chicago
Photography by: Photography of the IO Godfrey Derby Party by Francis Son Photography
