Kentucky Derby Traditions – How Well Do You Know Them?

By Author: Lee Lane-Edgar
Total Articles: 365
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Although there are many Kentucky Derby traditions that have evolved over the years since its inception in 1875, a few have become woven into the fabric of Derby history so closely that it is difficult to imagine the Derby without them.

Drinking a Mint Julep is possibly the most famous Kentucky Derby tradition. This is an alcoholic drink that consists of water, sugar, bourbon, ice, and topped off with a sprig of fresh mint. About 120,000 Mint Juleps are served during the weekend of the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs and are generally served in collectible Derby glasses.

High rollers who want to really enjoy the Mint Julep experience can purchase a specialized drink served in a special gold plated mint julep cup to be sipped with a silver straw. The cost? A mere $1,000, so sip slowly. The $1,000 Mint Julep is for charity and proceeds go to helping find homes for retired thoroughbred horses.

Just as important is the wearing of the Kentucky Derby hat. Derby hats are a tradition dating back over 100 years. Wearing a fashionable hat to the Kentucky Derby will win you the admiration of all ...
... provided you choose wisely. An estimated 90% of the women who attend the Kentucky Derby this year will don a hat. For many, it is the fashion event of the year. Hats range in style from the extravagant, to the elegant, to the ridiculous and outlandish.

Coordinating a whole look can sometimes be a somewhat intimidating if opting for a more colorful hat. An all white or cream colored hat is always good choice because it is easy to accessorize with the rest of the wardrobe.

A proper hat will certainly help you blend right in with the pretentious creatures inhabiting Millionaire's Row – this includes celebrities, aristocrats, heads of state, and members of the royalty who show up for each year's race.

Another tradition without which no Derby would be complete is one that dates back to 1921. The singing of “My Old Kentucky Home”, written by Stephen Foster, has become an integral part of the Derby experience at Churchill Downs. As the horses are paraded in front of the spectators on their way to the post, the University of Louisville marching band plays this song as the crowd sings along.

Some traditional foods consumed during the festivities include Kentucky burgoo, a hodgepodge of ingredients such as pork, chicken, vegetables, and spices; Derby Pie, a chocolate and walnut pie; and Kentucky Hot Brown, a turkey and bacon sandwich covered in Mornay sauce. Enjoy but don’t eat like a horse.