Last update: 5/3/25
Looking for some 2025 Kentucky Derby plans in Charleston? Look below for a few options (all events take place on Saturday, May 3; check back for updates):
The Establishment
- Festivities will begin at 5 p.m. with the race post time at 6:57 p.m.
- 15-foot LED screen to watch the races
- Receive a raffle ticket for every Derby Cocktail you order for your chance to win prizes all evening long
- Show off your Derby style to earn the title (and prizes) of Best Dressed or Best Hat
- Click here for more info
Hotel Bennett
- Hotel Bennett is hosting an all-day Kentucky Derby Party at its popular rooftop bar Fiat Lux, with the race itself kicking off at 7 p.m.
- Guests can enjoy specialty cocktails, a 360-degree photo booth, and exciting contests for the best-dressed
- This event is open to all. No reservations are required
- Click here for more info
Huey’s at Wild Dunes Resort
- Huey’s is transforming into a spirited Southern soiree, offering a front-row seat to Kentucky Derby festivities, beachside style
- In collaboration with Woodford Reserve, the celebration takes place from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., with a bourbon tasting at 5 p.m., accompanied by bites and a curated cocktail menu that captures the essence of the Derby
- Standout sips include the Dark Horse Margarita, blending Herradura Reposado with Charred Orange Curaçao and Dunes Citrus Mix; the Golden Derby, a refreshing twist with Vodka or Woodford Rye, Grapefruit, and Honey; and the Triple Crown Julep, a bold take on a classic with Woodford Reserve, three kinds of mint, and aromatic bitters
- For those skipping the spirits, non-alcoholic options will also be available
- Guests are invited to arrive in their Derby best for a chance to win prizes in the “Best Hat” and “Best Dressed” contests
- Tickets are not required, however, reservations are strongly recommended. The event is free to enter.
- Click here for more info
Hutson Alley
- 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- $30 ticketed event
- One welcome Mint Julep featuring Live Straight Bourbon Whiskey from Firefly Distillery
- Heavy passed “Horse” d’Oeuvres crafted by Coast Bar & Grill
- One Raffle Ticket for a chance to win exciting prizes
- Best Hat, Best Dressed Duo & Best Bow Tie Contests
- Guests can sip on mint juleps and other Derby-inspired cocktails while enjoying the live race broadcast on the Coast patio
- Coast Bar and Grill and Charleston’s Smallest Bar will be open for additional food and drink purchases
- For more details and to purchase tickets, click here
Islander 71 Fish House and Raw Bar
- 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- A massive 20-foot TV screen to catch all the racing action in high definition
- A live DJ and MC keeping the party energized with music, commentary and giveaways
- Signature Derby cocktails like Woodford Mint Juleps and Herradura Margaritas
- Best Dressed and Best Hat contests with prizes for the most stylish guests
- A Derby-style 50/50 raffle benefiting Hope Lodge Charleston, which supports families undergoing cancer treatment in the Charleston area
- No tickets or reservations are require
- More details and updates are available at: https://www.islander71.com/events/charlestons-biggest-kentucky-derby-party-at-islander-71
Junior Service League of Summerville
- The Junior Service League of Summerville will host its annual Derby Party to raise funds for 17 local community partner organizations at 5:00 p.m. at the Historic Linwood Inn & Gardens, located at 200 S. Palmetto Street in Summerville
- This event will feature live viewing of the Kentucky Derby, music by a live band, a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, heavy hors d'oeuvres, silent and live auctions, and the presentation of the John Tupper Award, which recognizes outstanding community service and involvement
- Guests are encouraged to dress in their most festive Kentucky Derby attire, fascinators included
- Click here for more info
Lamar's Sporting Club
- Doors open at 2:30 p.m.
- Featured cocktails
- Sir Wieners Hot Dog Towers
- Live music
- Door prizes for best outfits and best picks
- Click here for more info
Lillian’s Petite Market & Eatery
- From 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Lillian’s will be hosting a Derby celebration in their upstairs Jackalope Bar & Dining Room, featuring festive Southern small bites, $12 Derby-inspired cocktails, and prizes for Best Dressed
- Lite Bites Derby Menu includes - Cucumber pimento tea sandwiches, Deviled egg + caviar, Mini ham biscuits, Prime rib sliders, Derby hat cookies, Mini Kentucky Derby pies
- Derby Cocktail Specials ($12 Each) - The Petite Julep (bourbon, honey-lavender syrup, mint), Tea Time (sweet tea–infused vodka, lemon + thyme syrup), Honeysuckle Lemon Spritz (honeysuckle-infused vodka, lemon, honey, prosecco, soda)
- Tickets are $25 and include access to the curated lite bites menu, and Happy Hour will also be running earlier on the terrace
- Dinner service kicks off at 6 p.m. for guests looking to stay longer
- Dress to impress as prizes will be awarded for the Best Derby Attire—bring your best hats, seersucker, and florals
- Click here for reservations
Prohibition
- Hosting "King Street’s ultimate Kentucky Derby Party" from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Held on the back patio, guests can enjoy Derby-themed décor, large screens showing the race, Blade & Bow Mint Juleps, Kettle One Oaks Lily cocktails, and other drink specials. Plus, there will be giveaways throughout the event.
- Guests are encouraged to wear their finest Derby attire for this 21+ event
- Click here for more info
The Rooftop at Vendue
- Derby Days events on Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3
- Friday, May 2 – Kentucky Oaks
- Saturday, May 3 – Kentucky Derby (Main Race at 6:57 p.m.)
- Things off Friday with Kentucky Oaks and all-day surprises, then go full throttle on Saturday for the Kentucky Derby—main race at 6:57 p.m.
- Come dressed to impress for a chance to win $100 in the Best Dressed and Best Hat contests, with $50 for runners-up, plus extra giveaways throughout the day
- Sip on the Run for the Roses cocktail or a classic Woodford Mint Julep, and fuel up with Steak Frites or a Steak Flatbread
- Rare pours of Rabbit Hole Dareringer and Redbreast 15 whiskeys will be available in limited supply
- Click here for more info
The Rickhouse
- Hosting "A Derby Affair: Fillies and Lilies" starting at 3 p.m.
- Don your finest Derby attire
- Grand Prize Giveaway – All-inclusive trip to Impression Isla Mujeres. Other prizes include an exclusive barrel pick at Cannon Distillery, gift cards, and prizes from local vendors and shops.
- Live horses and ponies
- Other photo ops include a red carpet entrance and a giant rose wall
- Live music from a local bluegrass band
- Bourbon tastings
- Best-dressed & best fascinator contests – Show off your finest Derby day attire for a chance to win prizes
- Horse Racing-themed games & activities
- Derby marketplace & vendors.
- Custom cups & koozies
- Click here for more info
Snafu Brewing Company
- They'll be pouring two new Derby cocktail-inspired sours on draft
- Races on TV all day leading up to the Derby around 7 p.m.
- Click here for more info
Top Dawg Tavern
- Enjoy $8 Woodford Reserve Mint Juleps
- After the race, stay and enjoy Live Music from 8 - 11 p.m.
- Dozens of TVs inside and outside on the patio
- Click here for more info