6 ways to stay mint during Kentucky Derby Day

Time to channel your inner Southern belle or gentleman, Derby Days are here! There’s no shortage of local events where you can spend The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports and cheer on your favorite. Will it be Roadster, or Spinoff, or maybe Improbable? Don your seersucker and find out!

Cameron Mitchell Derby Day at The Barn | 1370 E Johnstown Rd.

The first in a the Triple Crown series of events at The Barn in Gahanna. Start on the terrace or Bourbon Lounge at 4 for a Derby Happy Hour, featuring a raffle for charity, a hat contest and a commemorative glass (while supplies last). Stay afterwards for dinner. (Reservations suggested.)

Derby Days Cocktail Party at Spagio’s | 129 Grandview Ave.

Pull out your Derby “classic attire” and head out to Spagio’s. From 4 to 7, Spagio’s will be serving 5 themed cocktails paired with “light bites.”

Cost: $32.25 (includes tax and gratuity)

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Mint Julep Mayhem at The Citizen’s Trust | 11 W Gay St.

Find a photo booth, a build your own julep station, and a raffle here at The Citizen’s Trust from 4:30-7. Participants will receive a Julep Cup, Makers Mark 46 Mint Julep, and a Makers 46 Whiskey tasting.

Cost: $15-$20

Juleps & Jockeys Derby Day Watch Party at Soul of the Joseph | 620 N High Street

Not only can you spend your evening from 4 to 8 sipping mint juleps from Wild Turkey, you can also be a winner. Prizes will be awarded for Best Derby Outfit and Best Hat. Admission is free, but if you register on Eventbrite, you’ll be eligible to win a door prize.

Five Strong Foundation Presents Columbus Derby Day at Huntington Park | 330 Huntington Park Ln.

Activities begin at 4 (check-in beginning at 3:30) and includes signature cocktails by local Bartender Cris Dehlavi, heavy hor d’oeuvres, music by The Fabulous Johnson Brothers, and a live viewing of the Derby. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Five Strong Foundation, and organization that works closely with individuals with developmental and /or physical disabilities who enjoy sports and physical activity.

Cost: $100

Hats, Bowties, & Derby Cocktails at Short North Julep | 1014 N High St.

Win prizes for Best Hat, Bowtie, and Best Dressed Couple at this viewing party in the Short North. Tickets will get you two derby cocktails and a souvenir glass.

Cost: $12

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