Race Over to These Derby Day Events

Some metro Detroit spots are certainly getting into the racing spirit. Trot your way over to these events to sip on mint juleps and watch the races.
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Stock photograph by coldbeer via Pexels.com

While the annual Kentucky Derby takes place roughly 375 miles south, some metro Detroit bars and restaurants are certainly getting into the racing spirit. Trot your way over to these events to sip on mint juleps and watch the race on May 3.

Derby for Kids

The Children’s Foundation hosts their annual Derby for Kids with a mission to improve their mental and physical health this year. Take part in the event by donating or take a look at their auction page, which closes on May 4 at noon, to place bids. The main Derby event will take place May 3 from 4-8 p.m. at the Country Club of Detroit. Ticket prices cost $225. Country Club of Detroit, 220 Country Club Dr., Grosse Pointe Farms; yourchildrensfoundation.org.

2025 Kentucky Derby Day Party

This Derby-themed annual event combines star-studded entertainment and exciting apparel in an elegant setting. Guests will indulge in award-winning, on-site catering, open bars and complimentary cigars, all while watching the Kentucky Derby race. This year, the event is taking to the grounds of Silver Gardens Event Center, including their Outdoor Pavilion, Ballroom, VIP room, Multipurpose room and Breezeway. Silver Gardens Event Center, 24350 Southfield Rd., Southfield; facebook.com/events.

2025 Kentucky Derby Gala

Join the Indianwood Golf & Country Club in Lake Orion for Hope Against Trafficking’s third annual Derby Gala. Expect hats, horses, mint juleps, and cigars. The Gala will support survivors in Hope’s residential program as well as their community awareness and education initiatives. Guests will enjoy food, viewing stations, betting booths, silent and live auctions, raffles, and much more. Tickets start at $125. May 3. Indianwood Golf & Country Club, 1081 Indianwood Rd., Lake Orion; hopeagainsttrafficking.org.

2025 Diamonds and Pearls Kentucky Derby Day Party

Hosted by the Chi Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Lansing (MI) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., celebrate the Kentucky Derby in East Lansing with elegance. Besides bright and colorful clothing and extravagant hats, guests will be able to enjoy hors d’oeuvres, horse race broadcasts, activities, games, prizes for best dressed, a prize for best hat and more. Tickets are $35. AC Hotel Lansing University Area, 3160 East Michigan Ave., East Lansing; eventbrite.com.

Derby Day Soirée

Join Ele’s Place in Ann Arbor for pre-derby coverage and a viewing of the 151st Kentucky Derby. This event provides hors d’oeuvres, southern-inspired food stations, silent and live auctions, and a derby dance party. Tickets are $275. Revel Run, 555 S. Dancer Rd, Chelsea; cbo.io/tickets/elesplace.

Godfrey Detroit Kentucky Derby Viewing Event 2025

Join The Godfrey Hotel Detroit’s first annual Kentucky Derby viewing party and enjoy a day full of fun cheering for your favorite horses. Guests can expect a red carpet, Derby Day menu, bourbon tasting classes, photo booth, live music, and more. Make sure to wear your best Derby attire as the event will have prizes for best dresses, best hat, and best couple. Tickets are $50. The Godfrey Detroit, Curio Collection by Hilton, 1401 Michigan Ave., Detroit; eventbrite.com.

This post has been updated for 2025.