Here’s What You Need To Know About The 2016 Kentucky Derby

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The 2016 Kentucky Derby takes place this Saturday, May 7 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Post (start) time is scheduled for 5:34 pm central standard time with the race set to be televised live on NBC.  Looking for a fun place to watch it around St. Louis? Check below for a list we’ve compiled.

The History of the Kentucky Derby

The year marks the 142nd Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The Derby has happened every year since 1875 and is the longest, continuously-running sporting event in the United States. Meriweather Lewis Clark, grandson of the famous explorer William Clark, actually spearheaded the construction of what would become Churchill Downs and the first running of the Kentucky Derby on May 17, 1875.

The 2015 Kentucky Derby & American Pharoah

2015 was a magical year for horse racing and American Pharoah. American Pharoah took the outside line on the final turn and out-ran a pack that included runner-up Firing Line to win the 141st Kentucky Derby. American Pharoah would go on to win the illusive Triple Crown, a feat not done since Affirmed achieved it in 1978.

American Pharaoh now lives his life at a farm in Versailles, Kentucky. It’s estimated he will be bred with 175 mares when this breeding season is over. The cost to breed your horse with Pharoah? Up to $200,000. Visitors of the human variety pay $20 each just to get up close to the champion horse.

Who Will Win The 2016 Kentucky Derby?

Nyquist is the heavy favorite to win the 2016 Kentucky Derby as he as been perfect thus far in the racing season. Oddshark gives Nyquist 10-3 odds to win.

Gun Runner and Creator are two other horses that have legitimate chances at the roses on Saturday. Danzing Candy would also make for an intriguing bet.

Want to GO BIG and point a little money down on a long shot? Try Whitmore or Tom’s Ready, both at 50/1.

On a side note, Lady Antebellum will sing the National Anthem before the start of the race.

Where Can I Watch The Derby Around St. Louis?

Gamlin Whiskey House

Gamlin Whiskey House in the Central West End neighborhood is again throwing their Kentucky Derby Day Party this year. The fun starts at 1pm. Jockey tables, seating 4 are available for $125, which includes a round of Mint Juleps and an appetizer platter. There will also be a costume contest and Maker’s 46 Mint Julep specials.

Three-Sixty

The bar atop the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark will be hosting Derby Day, beginning at 3 pm on Saturday, May 7. Tickets are $35 in advance or $40 at the door. Ticket prices include hor d’oeuvres and Milt Juleps. A portion of the proceeds will go to the St. Patrick Center. Prizes will be awarded for Best Dressed and Best Hat.

Bar Napoli

Bar Napoli in Clayton will b e hosting the HavenHouse Derby Party on Saturday. Doors open at 2 pm and tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Tickets include complimentary appetizers and Mint Julep drink specials. There will Best Hat competition for the ladies and a Best Dressed contest for the men.

Bar Napoli will also be hosting the Red Shoe Society’s Kentucky Derby Party.  The event runs from 3 pm – 6 pm with tickets priced at $45 for Red Shoe members and $60 for the general public.

The Royale

The Royale will be hosting the Royale Kentucky Derby Party on May 7. Tickets are just $12 for this party that begins at 2 pm. Music will be provided by the Gaslight Squares and there will be a Hat + Style contest as well as several others. This event sold out last year so, you might want to jump on this one ASAP.

Sanctuaria

Sanctuaria Wild Tapas will be hosting an event, along with Feast Magazine on Saturday to benefit Stray Rescue. Doors are set to open at 3 pm.

Just John

Just John isn’t having a ticketed event like some other establishments, but they are having some activities this Saturday. They will be serving complimentary fried chicken from Hodak’s while supplies last and Honey Vox will be performing after the race. They will also be giving out prizes to those in their best Derby attire.

Wheelhouse Downtown

Wheelhouse Downtown and Celebrate Style are teaming up for a Kentucky Derby party to benefit the Siteman Cancer Center. The event will feature a runway fashion show featuring cancer survivors before the race. The $35 ticket includes a premium open bar with proceeds going directly to Celebrate Style and the Siteman Cancer Center.

Hendricks BBQ

Hendricks BBQ will be host a private Kentucky Derby Watch Party on their lot in St. Charles. The $25 ticket includes a barbecue buffet and one Mint Julep.  The buffet will included delicacies like Bacon Mac & Cheese, Fried Green Tomatio BLT Sliders and Maple Bourbon Bread Pudding.

PBR Ballpark Village

Head over to Ballpark Village in downtown St. Louis for Down & Derby with PBR. The party starts at 4 pm and goes all night long. Drink specials will run from open-close and attendees will receive a “Talk Derby To Me” koozie while supplies last. Stick pony races will be held throughout the party and those in their best Derby dress will skip the line and cover.

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