Kentucky Derby Party Ideas & Free Printables
Plan a fun and stylish Derby party with our unique Kentucky Derby party ideas and free printables!
It’s spring in Kentucky which means only one thing, it’s Derby Time!! I know that you’ve heard me say it before, but Derby time in Kentucky is one of my favorite times of the year. There are loads of great activities for families and the whole city puts on a great show to welcome everyone to town. This post is sponsored by Chinet & BlogHer.
We have had a Kentucky Derby Party several times – it’s usually very kid-friendly and casual. This year, I was inspired to plan something a bit fancier and pinning Kentucky Derby Party ideas like crazy.
The Kentucky Derby is also known as the “Run for the Roses” because of the large and gorgeous blanket of roses that is draped over the winning horse at the end of the race.
I was so inspired by the red of the roses that I thought I’d plan a black, white, and red Derby Party this year.
Even though the stores are stocked with Derby partyware every year, I can never seem to find just what I’m looking for. So I designed a set of printables to perfectly coordinate with my Derby Party, and the good news is that I’m sharing these printables with you.
Kentucky Derby Party Printables
I’ve created a set of free Printables perfect for a Derby Party. Included in the printables are:
- Subway Art
- Prize Ribbon Centers
- Cupcake Pics
- Run for the Roses Banner
These DIY Prize ribbons are a very fun and unique Derby idea. You just make a rosette out of scrapbook paper and hot glue the ribbons to the back and the printable centers to the front.
How to Make Custom Party Plates
Since I worked so hard to design a set of perfectly coordinated party decorations, I also wanted to find a set of perfectly coordinated disposable tableware. I wanted it to be disposable but still nice. I ended up going with the Chinet® Cut Crystal® products.
They coordinate perfectly with each other (they all have the same swirl pattern) and they are clear so they go with everything I already had. No worrying about finding the perfect shade of red for the plates.
My favorite thing about the Chinet® Cut Crystal® plates is that it has a center that is flat, so I could add my own image to the plate.
You can make totally custom disposable dinner plates! I simply printed the image out on my printer, then cut it out the size of the plate center (which is just under 7″).
To create the plates, use a tiny bit of spray mount and glue the image to the back of the plate. Since the image is on the back of the plate, you can still use the dinnerware… it’s disposable anyway, so why not add a pop of something to the plate?
I’ve also included printables (just the right size) of the two dinner plate images for you.
You can find ALL OF THE PRINTABLES information at the BOTTOM of this post.
No party is complete without a fun banner!! You can also download this fun “Run for the Roses” banner.
Derby Pie Cupcakes Recipe
Several years ago I got the idea to turn the flavors of a Derby Style Pie into a Cupcake. I’m happy to share the recipe with you.
Add a bit of fun to your party by creating our Derby Cupcakes and styling them with a cupcake pic.
To make the cupcake pics, simply print the image, cut it out with a circle or scallop punch, and tape it to a toothpick.
A Few other Derby Party Decor Ideas
Some other fun party ideas!
- Prepackage and tie the silverware together with a ribbon that matches your party decor.
- Serve fruit or other treats in individual clear cups.
- Add paper bow ties (or real bow ties if you have a lot of extra ones) to your serving glasses.
- Hang Derby-themed award rosettes around the room for a bit of extra decor
- Use a paper table runner on a roll. It’s a great way to add some color to your party table, but it’s disposable. You can also use matte wrapping paper (like I did for our Graduation Cookie Party)
Don’t you just love the paper bow ties on the glasses? You can find loads of free bow tie templates online or cut them out with an e-cutting machine if you have one.
If you’d like to see even more Kentucky Derby Party ideas, check out my Pinterest board, sponsored by the Chinet® brand – from practical ideas to “my absolute dream” party ideas, you’ll find loads of great ideas to make your Derby Party perfect…
Also, check out the Chinet® Pinterest Page – I found lots of great ideas there when I was planning out my party. Now tell me: How do you make your occasions perfectly coordinated?
How to Get the Printables
Fill out this form and we will email you the printables.
Include are:
- Run for the Roses Banner
- Rosette Centers
- Black and White Subway Art
- Cupcake Pics
You can also purchase the printables as a set in our store if you do not want to sign up for our Newsletter.
The Printable Bundle offered in our shop includes printables that are not available anywhere else, including a Derby Trivia sheet, perfect for a party!
Other Derby Ideas you may like:
My Old Kentucky Home Gold Foil Artwork
I actually do not strive for coordination when entertaining, when it comes to setting the table; I like mismatched napkins, bowls, plates, goblets, etc., if find it more interesting to look at. I do like coordination when trying to get the food on the table at the same time so everyone can eat at the same time at the table.
https://twitter.com/LuLu_Brown24/status/451002845412618240
Wow what a great looking party! The printables are too cute! Putting the picture behind the plate, genius!
I like to match the colors and add fresh flowers
https://twitter.com/ElenaIstomina/status/451027635078844417
I rarely host but am hoping to once we finish some remodeling.
I try to make them perfectly coordinated with a lot of planning, referring to Pinterest, friends suggestions and a lot of shopping! Its often challenging but I like to think I pull it off. Disposable tableware makes things much easier because I can always co ordinate to achieve the look I want!
Tweeted
https://twitter.com/mummytotwoboys1/status/451087379277705216
I choose a color scheme and use different shades of that color.
tweet–https://twitter.com/mami2jcn/status/451151351263682560
I have to be honest and say I don’t coordinate everything. I’m so bad at things like that. But Pinterest is slowly but surely teaching me a few things 🙂
I make a lot of lists and try to plan ahead!
I make my occasions perfectly coordinated by firstly choosing my dinnerware…I have several sets for different occasions. Then I choose the color scheme with placemats and napkins to match. Flowers are always a lovely touch. If it’s a special event, I will try to make my own napkin rings to match the flowers or season. An added piece is name place settings written in calligraphy that my guests can take home with them. For a final touch, I welcome my guests with a colorful, handmade wreath hung on the front door.
I like to come up with some kind of theme, and find colors. etc. that go with that.
chambanachik(at)gmail(dot)com
I like coordinate my parties with matching plates, table clothes, napkins, flowers and balloons.
The countdown is on.. Only a few more days and Derby Fever is running rampart. You have certainly planned the perfect decorations for that short run down the racetrack. With just a few changes this would also make a great “Thunder Over Louisville” decor as well. One of my favorite times of the year, It is our personal two week celebration! Bring on the Derby Hats and the Mint Juleps!
I love when things match, but they rarely do! Thanks for the giveaway!
sarah@forrussia.org
What a great party theme! Fun!!
When planning a party, I like to choose a theme first, then choose a color or group of colors to use. My mom loved purple, so her birthday parties were decorated with shades of purple. I use lots of STAMPIN’ UP inks because they come in so many shades of each color. I can even buy white tablecloths and stamp on them with stamps and colors that fit my theme. BTW I always use Chinet plates when I take cakes to funerals, family get-togethers, and potlucks. Bundt cakes fit on them very well and they fit in my carriers.
https://twitter.com/LuLu_Brown24/status/451369358493614082
I use a couple color schemes that match and use dishes and tablecloths and coordinate the colors around what I pick. I will use clear dishes and glasses as to not have too much color that is overpowering!
https://twitter.com/JewelWood/status/451371120843706369
Great looking party ideas. Can’t wait to try these.
i could not tell the small plate printable from the large plate printable and there were no printables for the cupcakes
love t he idea just need the rest of it thanks
I love when you can buy plates and napkins all those item in one line for a party. I have done so many theme parties. I didn’t have but went to was indeed a Kentucky Derby party, was fun but would have been even more so with you great ideas. Thanks for the chance to win.
I usually try to color coordinate but often have to just use what we have on hand at home.
I like everything to be the same 2 colors.
https://twitter.com/kj20082006/status/451589046515408897
tweet
https://twitter.com/MeandBells/status/451840462223986688
i would pick a beautiful centerpiece with fresh flowers, nice napkin holders, and lots of pastel colors. i really like how yours is set up!
I love to use Pinterest for ideas, and then I try and implement them as cheaply as possible. I do some stuff myself on photoshop and try to color coordinate
I tweeted too https://twitter.com/jessrwarfield/status/451867485306773504
I like to first pick a theme. I have a few blogs I turn to for ideas. and then I go from there. I try to stick to a few colors or coordinate different patterns.
tweet
https://twitter.com/1amypugmire/status/451870984748822528
I usually use accents of colors throughout the decor to reflect the party’s theme vs. using nothing but party colors.
I like when my napkins and paperware match.
I love to mix things up by adding splashes of color and graphic patterns to a neutral pattern!
Tweet!
https://twitter.com/ScoomerBlog/status/452143584402087936
I’m not very good at coordinating or party planning. I usually just get cute plates and napkins and that’s it. Sad, I know! I’m getting ready to move to Louisville just in time for Derby so this would be a great idea to host a party! Thanks!
I like using plane dishes and adding color with the other decor. The print behind a clear plate is brilliant!
I use a mix of solid colors (balloons, plates, tablecloth) and then themed decorations mixed in.
I pick out a theme and try to have color coordinated decorations.
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/rhoneygee/status/452334597183774722
I choose a color scheme and use different shades of that color. I like to add fresh flowers to make a table special.
https://twitter.com/susan1215/status/452514881133371393
https://twitter.com/OneFrugalGirl/status/452553382340075521
I buy solid colored napkins and other party supplies so I can use them for any occasion. Birthdays, showers, easter parties. The trick is not to be too focused on a particular event. Then the leftover items can be used for another time.
By sold colors and download prinatables as accents.
I can’t wait for derby. Thank you so much for creating the derby party supplies for us. I agree with you, the party supplies you find in the store for derby are never quite right. I like the idea of using chinet & printables to customize plates.
Through the years I have accumulated the perfect decorations and accessories for the various holidays and seasons. I break them out every year and it’s enjoyed every year!
https://twitter.com/myfolly/status/453042209340653568
tweet https://twitter.com/helobuff/status/453085686090846208
I make your occasions perfectly coordinated by creating either a theme or matching things to the items that will be on the table. Either the center peice, the desserts, whatever the occasions.
I usually key my decorations to my floral arrangements.
To help my occasions perfectly coordinated, I pick themes first, then use flowers, tableware and room decorations to prepare.
-https://twitter.com/tcarolinep/status/453373632421437441
Fresh flowers to reflect the season and occasion.
I pick the theme first and then look on Pinterest and then do a watered down version of what I see!
I try to coordinate the invitations to the decor as best I can.
I usually coordinate the food/drink around a theme, but I lack in decor.
I love the custom plates, I may not be having a derby party, but I will use this idea!!!
I love having everything in a party coordinate! I start with a theme, do a little shopping on ETSY, a little DIY and finish off with custom cookies (it’s nice to actually work for my own party on occasion!) This year my 40th birthday falls on the 140th running of the derby so the party theme was a given! Looking forward to using your printables…thanks for sharing!!
I try to go with a certain theme and color scheme to keep things cute and coordinated!
Thanks for the chance to win!
wildorchid985 at gmail dot com
I love the Kentucky Derby. I really like this inspired decor for a viewing party, and especially like the way you did the plates. What a great idea! Thanks!
I only wish my events looked that good! Thanks for the great inspiration.
Pick a theme, then get into the spirit of it! The more fun I have making it look great, the more fun my guests will have.
I have tubs and tubs of decorations for every occasion, and use those to create a perfect party theme.
I color coordinate napkins, tablecloth and flatware.
I like to stick to a theme and coordinate through that theme. It helps to save things that can be used again so I don’t have to go out and buy everything new all over again.
i have never really had a house party but i love your ideals
https://twitter.com/purplelover04/status/457966864367243265
I like to do mismatched matched…say all different teacups, but in the same color palette.
tweeted
https://twitter.com/rubylorikeet/status/458414348860289026
My special occasions haven’t been perfectly coordinated. I can try to make festive events presentable by using some of my beloved Mother’s table-setting(s). I love your idea for the race–the plate looks perfect!
Tweet! https://twitter.com/lexiquin/status/458475706830172160
THANK YOU for designing and sharing these KY Derby items……..we have had an annual Derby party since 2006 (a tradition my grandparents started with their friends) always lots a fun times, just wish they were still here to share with us. Plan on using several of these this year!!!
I turn to Etsy for coordinating.
https://twitter.com/618mom23boys/status/459746681404137472
I LOVE this plate idea! I am coordinating next time by doing this! Usually I just buy whatever goes together in the store. Thank you for the great ideas – I can’t wait to try it!
tweeted: https://twitter.com/KerryBishop/status/460029401233514496
I love using certain decorations and tableware depending on the holiday/occasion.
https://twitter.com/disneyfan40/status/460242744581955585
I rely on the delicious food to distract my guests from the fact that I have no idea how to properly coordinate! haha!
coriwestphal at msn dot com
Tweet: https://twitter.com/coriwestphal/status/460257326662840320
coriwestphal at msn dot com
We are rarely coordinated unless it’s a special holiday dinner. Most of the time we go for casual back yard barbeques or pot luck.
Tweet – https://twitter.com/willitara/status/460274843858903042
I coordinate invitations color scheme to the napkins & decorations.
I try to pick colors that coordinate and add cute accessories.
https://twitter.com/ajoy1332/status/460815556325552128
I try to do a coordinated theme with fresh flowers and matching plates.
https://twitter.com/aes529/status/461140608800002049
Incredible ideas! I’m definitely using some of them for our party. Thanks for sharing!
What a fun and attractive party theme! I love the way you’ve even included printables to pull it all together. I only get to watch the Kentucky Derby on television, but it would be fun to host a “watching” party, incorporating your ideas.
I don’t do a lot to coordinate my table décor. One thing I do is always use white plates and serveware and accessorize with colorful linens and glassware to suit the occasion/season. Thank you!
i usually buy color coordinated items that match my theme or occasion
Wow! I was late to the party….I decided just a few hours ago to have a Kentucky Derby Party. I was browsing the net and came across your delightful site…I am going to do the Chinet plates and use my own vintage Kentucky Derby collectible glasses for my guests. For betting, I will enter the wagers on my Twin Spires account and let my guests go wild. Red and Black themed table cloth and horsey centerpiece. I just love the cool announcement page to prop up on my serving area….this is gonna be FUN, thanks for all the help.
I love the colors aqua and green, so those are already used throughout my house so when planning events, I usually gravitate toward those colors as well, so I can make use of things I already have. I love that the Chinet options don’t clash!
What great party ideas! Thanks for the giveaway 🙂
chevybelair1@juno.com
I plan ahead and gather things way ahead of time.
lazybones344 at gmail dot com
I try to stick with neutral colors so that I can mix and match for different occasions. I coordinate the plates to match the napkins and the flowers.
I tweeted https://twitter.com/yarbr012/status/462682454265200640 twitter id: yarbr012
I get ideas from the internet for themes and then coordinate everything to that theme or color scheme.
tweet
https://twitter.com/eswright18/status/462689199242506240
I pick a color theme and have it coordinate with everything.
austma7@aol.com
I pick one color and keep everything in some shade of that color.
I try to stick to a color theme and decorate the table with tablecloth, centerpiece and place settings in the same theme.
I choose a color and than work everything in around that color theme
I let one of the kids pick the color scheme each occasion = makes it fun!
tvollowitz at aol dot com
I tend to buy everything in shades of green and blue with some violet to mix, they all tend to blend nicely and pull a look together
I don’t! I like the look of mismatched things. I might aim to have things a similar color scheme (all bold colors, or bright colors, or purples/blues/greens) but I like having different styles and everything.
It takes work and planning and maybe visits to multiple stores to find products that match.
I like to pick out a printed plate and then I will buy the matching paper napkins in different solid colors
I take the easy way out and let the Party Story lead the way. They always have coordinating decorations, plates, cups and more. Sometimes, I mix and match with similar designs, just to give it a little bit of a personal touch 🙂
Tweeted 🙂 – https://twitter.com/Enter_Now/status/462890015056334848
I usually choose a color theme and try to coordinate the table linens, dishes and centerpiece.
Tweet
https://twitter.com/clc408/status/462907116399759360
I love prepping for parties… especially my daughter’s birthday parties. I get a lot of inspiration from Pinterest. It takes me a long time to gather all of the items.
Wow, stunning tables! However, for me, the perfect coordination is family and friends—an eclectic bunch!
I rarely do coordinate! However, I prefer neutral colored dishes so that I can add pops of color with linens and flowers. (Yours is adorable!!)
We pick a theme and work together to achieve it.
I choose a theme and use 2 colors for the flowers, decorations and serve ware..
I focus on two colors depending what the season is.
Now it’s yellow & green.
To fill out my plan I check out thrift shops for a great deal!
thank you
Tweet https://twitter.com/JalapenoMama/status/463035102973665281
we normally have a party theme and stick to the themes colors!
Haha! In no way are my “occasions” coordinated! I have been known to use Halloween napkins for Easter because the Halloween napkins were on clearance! I have seen cute table settings using things from the dollar store to make cute placemats and table settings.
I’m afraid my guests are forced to make do with what they get. I’m just not a very coordinated host.
I just try to keep everything the same color scheme.
I choose a theme and make a special centerpiece to match and I try to find cute items at the craft store to make banners and
items for our guests to take home, I also get matching plates,napkins and cups.
Next year I am going to decorate a derby party with all my losing tickets fro this derby!
I pick two colors or a theme and just stick to it!
I think it is the little details and my personal touch what makes my occasions perfectly coordinated
tweet https://twitter.com/neiddy_ruiz/status/463367518673833985
most of the kitchen items, dishware and serving pieces that i own are the same colors, so it is easy for me to coordinate.
I set my dining table with a themed matching set of linens and tableware, along with a beautiful centerpiece. I plan a themed menu and have a strategic guest list.
I usually pick one main color and add coordinating accents
I don’t coordinate. I don’t know why it just isn’t one of my talents.
I like to keep coordinated with matching color schemes. For Christmas, we use a combination of green and red tableware. We even incorporate green and red sprinkles in some of the desserts too.
usually by searching the net for themes
My wife does the planning, but I help
I don’t really coordinate things
I choose a theme (i.e. nautical) and draw inspiration from blogs, magazines, and Pinterest. 🙂
I like to match party favors with the food that is being served.
I try to coordinate my plates, napkins, glasses and centerpiece 🙂
I always choose a theme first. I look for most of the decorations on-line.
https://twitter.com/smilekisses/status/463566028572598272
i coordinate by getting matching patterns to decorate
I coordinate by occasion theme first. Flowers are a mus!! ky_grandma40@yahoo.com
I coordinate everything by making use of the red theme I already have, I buy red flowers and red flowered napkins, add some ribbons as napkin holders and I have a lovely table.
i pick a theme and organize.
I usually use white plates and decorate the rest of the table with some form of color.
I always try to match and in every event I try to add childrens to match as well. Most of the fun for a party or event is decorating, cooking and baking!
I coordinate my events by setting up matching, classy decorations. I like wall and hanging decorations. I serve food on plates that match the theme and try to have to food go along with it too. The final touch is music, I try and download all the music that I think will fit perfectly with the theme and bring up peoples spirits
I plan ahead, keep everything organized, and lots of searching for ideas online
=)
Depending on the holiday, I have color coordinated napkins, plates, flowers, and knick knacks on the table.
I use Pinterest, make lists, and plan like crazy. I love party planning and often design my own party decor and cupcake toppers to give everything that unique and personal touch.
I pick a theme, make a list and then go from there
Well I learned from my mother that every table is theme coordinated, from the table cloth to napkins to the centerpieces, to the candles, even to the flatware and which plate setting to use. I even like to coordinate down to my desserts, for instance match my cupcake liners to the napkins etc. I love your post and you have such wonderful ideas! You have a new follower here!
i focus on a color scheme to help coordinate things
I coordinate through my experience in the themes.
Lovely!! I stick with a color theme but don’t do it too matchy!!
I pick a color scheme and stick with it.
I always coordinate. Not usually a theme but two colors that look good together. Thanks for the chance.
I match all my plates, napkins, and decorations to revolve around the theme I have come up with for that occasion!
Digicats {at} Sbcglobal {dot} Net
I usually go with a theme and buy all the products of that theme. Thank you!
I use the good china that I inherited from my mom and add fresh flowers.
Your party looks amazing! I love to entertain and will have to check out these products and pinterest.
I am a crappy hostess. I just start pulling out pieces from my very eclectic collection of china, linens, pottery and flea market treasures and layer, ad and subtract until I like how it feels.
Whatever the occasion, I go as far as matching color theme in plates cups and cutlery.
I sometimes coordinate, using resources like Pinterest, but often, it’s just whatever goes!
I like to use my girlfriend’s brain for stuff like this. Most of the time we pick a theme and stick to it by buying things in matching colors.
I like color, so I pick one and go with thru the whole day, from flowers to setting’s and I try also to make the food color match as much as I can too.
I love to go to the fabric store and get fabric for a tablecloth, and napkins. I also love to coordinate with fresh flowers and of course, matching plates, napkins, etc.!
I love how you coordinated your “Derby” party. It’s been a couple years since I have hosted a party as I am in transition between residences. Your web inspires me to plan a party soon.
I always have a themed party because it helps me focus on the event.
I like to browse magazines like better home and garden for inspiration. I usually find a lot of cheap decorations and coordinates at our local dollar store,they have a great selection
What a fun site! Love the party ideas!
I make occasions perfectly coordinated by matching colors.
https://twitter.com/thomasmurphy40/status/464115793119047680
I make my special occasions perfectly coordinated by going with a simple clean look. I try not to over do it. it keeps things neat and orderly.
Theme, and colors that go with.
I don’t think I’ve ever had a coordinated dinner party. I like white napkins and my white dinnerware. Other than that, I’m no Martha Stewart.
Thanks for the contest.
I sometimes go for a theme and tell everyone to dress accordingly.
https://twitter.com/slehan/status/464152998990458880
LOVE TO THROW THEMED PARTIES..ALWAYS A BLAST AND EVERYONE DRESSES WITH THEME:)
LOVE TO DO THEME PARTIES AND THEY ARE ALWAYS SO MUCH FUN 🙂
I color coordinate my dinnerware and cutlery (plastic)
I usually don’t becaue of the number of kids in my immediate family but I try to have wine glasses available for those who drink wine
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
tweet
https://twitter.com/ChelleB36/status/464174800106045441
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
I match the decorations, dishes and linens to the theme of the party.
I get ideas from browsing in the store and online.
I make a plan and stick to it.
I actually like to decorate around the food that I am preparing it works out better for me.
i tried to download the plate template for your derby party. I subscribed to your email and got the code and it said the link is no longer available. Is there anyway to get a download sent to my email?
Thanks
Heidi Brewer.
Just click on the download button again. It’s an error that occurs in some browsers. If you need more help there are instructions at the top of the page. Enjoy!