The Kentucky Derby Twin Cities Party, where southern charm meets Midwestern hospitality to celebrate the most thrilling two minutes in sports. From its inception, our annual event has become the talk of the town, seamlessly blending the traditions of the Derby with our unique local flair. We aslo know Kentucky Derby parties are outrageous events… known for hats, dresses, seersucker, cigars and mint juleps. This party celebrates all of that and more!
The journey began at Birch’s On The Lake, where the serene backdrop of the water provided the perfect setting for our inaugural festivities. The air was filled with the melodic strumming of The High 48 Bluegrass Band, setting the stage for what was to become an unforgettable annual tradition.
True to the spirit of the Derby, we introduced contests that quickly became crowd favorites, awarding cash prizes for “Best Dressed,” “Best Dressed Couple,” and “Best Hat.” These competitions ignited a sartorial spectacle that has grown more impressive with each passing year.
In our third year, the party found a new home at the Hotel Landing in Wayzata, where we took over the .925 restaurant and event rooms. The event scaled new heights as Zoey Says Go graced us with their live performances, adding an electrifying ambiance to the occasion. Our guests were also treated to a stunning display of classic cars, underscoring the timeless elegance of Derby day.
Responding to the enthusiasm of our attendees, we expanded our awards to include “Best Tie” and “Most Original Outfit” for individuals and couples, ensuring that creativity and fashion were celebrated in all forms.
The evolution continued as we moved to the Westin Hotel Galleria Edina, where we not only utilized the luxurious indoor spaces but also embraced the great outdoors. Our guests mingled amongst miniature horses, enjoyed hand-rolled cigars, and savored succulent BBQ, all the while basking in the splendid Minnesota sunshine.
The event was further enhanced by the soulful tunes of Edie Rae & The Blaze Kings, along with a curated selection of Bluegrass artists, providing a soundtrack that was as vibrant as the event itself.
Fashion took center stage, with insights from Minneapolis fashion experts, including Sara Rogers, Richard Moody, Christi Gereau, and Ethlind Belle, elevating the style quotient to new heights.
At the core of the Kentucky Derby Twin Cities Party is our dedication to the classic hallmarks of Derby Day. Each year, we revel in the display of elegant hats, chic dresses, crisp seersucker, aromatic cigars, and refreshing Mint Juleps. Our goal is to encapsulate the essence of the Kentucky Derby, culminating in the anticipation and excitement of the race itself.
As we continue to grow and evolve, our mission remains the same: to create an experience that honors the legacy of the Kentucky Derby while infusing it with our local charm and hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned Derby veteran or a newcomer to the festivities, we invite you to join us for what promises to be the most memorable Kentucky Derby Twin Cities Party yet.
Don your finest attire, sip on a Mint Julep, and prepare for an afternoon of elegance, excitement, and entertainment. We look forward to seeing you at the starting gate!