
Hold on to your hats, the Kentucky Derby is back! On May 3rd, the legendary horse race will return. If you’re wondering where to watch the Kentucky Derby in Houston, there are plenty of options – with more to be announced. Check out our article to discover the best Kentucky Derby parties in Houston.
Julep
Owned by mixologist maven Alba Huerta, Julep is a James Beard Award-winning bar recognized for its Outstanding Bar Program. This May, the premier Houston cocktail bar is set to host its popular Kentucky Derby party for its 11th year.
Running from 1 pm to 6 pm, the Kentucky Derby party will feature three bars, cigars, live music, and more in celebration of the annual race. Furthermore, Julep will set the stage with Instagrammable floral arrangements featuring the likes of 5,000 fresh-cut flowers.
Plus, if you’re looking to enjoy a Mint Julep in Houston, Julep is the spot. Entry is priced at $20 per person.
📅 May 3, 1 pm – 6 pm
📍Julep, 1919 Washington Ave
Heights Bier Garten
Popular Heights patio bar, Heights Bier Garten, will be hosting a special Derby Day celebration this May with themed cocktails, live music, and giveaways.
In addition to full coverage of the race, the venue will feature Southern-themed drinks, live music by Good Time Muffin, as well as contests for best hat and best-dressed.
📅 May 3, 11 am – 10 pm
📍1433 N Shepherd Dr.
Credence
From Chef Levi Goode, Credence is a newly-minted (pun intended) elevated cocktail lounge and Southern-influenced eatery in Memorial City. This year, Goode will be hosting the inaugural Hats & Horses party at Credence.
Running from 4 pm – 8 pm, the venue will offer a sophisticated place to watch the Kentucky Derby in Houston with Woodford Reserve Bourbon and Herradura Tequila-based cocktails and unlimited curated apps from the kitchen. Credence will broadcast the race over two open-air screens.
Tickets to the Hats & Horses party at Credence start at $125 which include two complimentary cocktails and unlimited apps. VIP options are also available.
Following the race, the party will continue at Levi Goode’s Sidebar concept located next door where the venue will hosts awards for best hat, best dressed, and more.
📅 May 3, 4 pm – 8 pm
📍9757 Katy Fwy Suite 170
Brasserie 19

The sophisticated French restaurant in River Oaks will host a glamorous Kentucky Derby Hat Party Brunch on May 3. Running from 1 pm to 7 pm, the event will feature Chef Michael Hoffman-curated brunch specials, Mint Juleps, feathers, floral installations, and more. There will also be a competition for most fabulous hat.
📅 May 3, 1 pm – 7 pm
📍1962 W Gray St.