If you’re hosting a Kentucky Derby party this year, you probably already know the basics: mint juleps, big hats, and delicious Southern food (and if you don’t, be sure to check out my Ultimate Derby Day Entertaining Guide. But when it comes to actually entertaining your guests during the race (and, more importantly, all the time leading up to it), having a few simple and well-thought-out activities can make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve found that the best Derby Day activities are the ones that everyone can partake in without much knowledge or effort. You want something that gets guests involved without requiring a ton of setup, complicated rules, or awkward “wait, how does this work?” moments. And unless you’re hosting a very specific crowd, it’s best to avoid anything that feels too formal or encourages over-betting.
Whether your guests are seasoned bettors or just there for the outfits and snacks, these easy Kentucky Derby party activities are fun, interactive, and simple to pull off. Even better? They’re all printable, so you can set everything up in minutes.
