WEEKEND BEST BET: East County Kentucky Derby parties

East County residents are dusting off their oversized floppy hats, bowties and other Kentucky Derby best for an afternoon of horse racing this weekend.

Various venues throughout the area are hosting more than just watch parties. Below, the East County Observer details where Derby watchers can enjoy an afternoon of food, cocktails and racing.

All events will be held Saturday, May 2.

Kentucky Derby Bash — starts at 5 p.m. at the Polo Grill and Bar, 10760 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Party is free to attend, but will feature $5 Mint Juleps and bourbon cocktails, along with a range of prizes for best hat and other categories. Call 782-0899 for more information.

Kentucky Derby Party — runs from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Center for Building Hope, 5481 Communications Parkway, Sarasota. Cost is $35 in advance and $45 at the door. Cost of tickets includes hors d'oeuvres, derby viewing and entry into a range of contests, such as Best Hat. Proceeds benefit the Center for Building Hope. Visit http://centerforbuildinghope.org/derby for more information.

Mint Juleps and Roses Derby Day — runs from 5 to 9 p.m. at Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy (SMART), 4640 County Road 675, Bradenton. Cost is $75 and includes viewing of the derby on TVs displayed throughout the venue, dinner, complimentary mint juleps, live auction, contests and performances by The Florida Mountain Boys. Call 322-2000 for more information. 

So, where will you wine and dine, Derby style?

Contact Amanda Sebastiano at [email protected].