When it comes to the Kentucky Derby, one of the biggest horse racing spectacles in the world, most people think of Mint Juleps and Champagne. But what about us, the ordinary people who aren’t a fan of cocktails or strong liquor like Bourbon? Well, beer is also available at the Kentucky Derby, and although beers are more suitable for other sports like football, and it isn’t a fancy drink, don’t let the prestigious vibe ruin your mood. You can enjoy a beer at the Kentucky Derby, and there are plenty of choices.
Kentucky is the home of Bourbon, but what most people don’t know is that they have plenty of local breweries that serve some delicious beer. So, if you are going through the Kentucky Derby betting offers on a sunny day, there isn’t anything better than enjoying a cold beer. Now, when it comes to the Kentucky Derby, you have two choices. You can either try some of the local beer coming from local craft breweries or go with the commercial brands that are often partners for the event. Let’s see what type of beers are served at the Kentucky Derby.
Official and Sponsored Beers
Kentucky Derby is one of the oldest races in the United States, and over the years, we’ve seen Churchill Downs dive into multiple partnerships, especially when it comes to the drinks. We first are going to cover some of the commercial beers that are usually available at the Kentucky Derby. Being a prestigious event, the Kentucky Derby serves some top-class beer. Over the years, we’ve seen this event partner with beer brands like Stella Artois, Budweiser, and Michelob Ultra.
These are classic beers that cater to a broad audience and are perfect refreshments for the hot day in May. The best thing is that all of these sponsors are also making their unique glasses for the Kentucky Derby. Now, I don’t know if you are allowed to take those glasses at home, but many people have done that and now they are selling Kentucky Derby x Stella Artois glasses on eBay. This shows that even beer glasses turn into memorabilia at events like the Kentucky Derby.
Local Craft Beers on Tap
Next, we have a more interesting topic – local craft beers! Now, I know that not everyone is a fan of craft beer, especially since most of them are brave and introduce unique flavors. However, the Kentucky Derby is all about the experience, and as a beer fan, you should probably taste what the locals have to offer.
The Kentucky Derby is flooded with local breweries and brands, and each year there are new and unique beers. We’ve seen West Sixth Brewing, Country Boy Brewing, and Against the Grain Brewing offer their delicious beers at the Kentucky Derby.
Churchill Downs recently teamed up with Blue Moon, the best-selling craft beer in the U.S., naming it the official craft beer of the Kentucky Derby through a multi-year agreement. As part of this partnership, a Blue Moon Taproom & Balcony with a view of the racetrack will be created at Churchill Downs. Additionally, Blue Moon serves as the title sponsor for the Twilight Thursday racing series at the venue.
“The Kentucky Derby is one of the premier events in sports and entertainment, and it has a certain culture around it — an elevated premium brand and experience that we feel is a perfect tie to what Blue Moon is all about,” says Sean Robberson, senior brand manager, Blue Moon.
Bourbon barrel-aged beers should be on your radar for true Kentucky flavor because they unite bourbon’s smooth caramel tones with malty richness to create an exceptional tasting experience that Derby fans seeking boldness will enjoy.
Premium Beers for VIP Guests
If you’re lucky enough to be in a luxury suite or VIP area, your beer options expand beyond the usual selections. High-end imports, craft IPAs, and specialty ales often make their way into the exclusive lounges.
Guests in premium seating areas may find a rotating list of seasonal beers, including European-style lagers and locally brewed specialty beers. These offerings provide a more refined drinking experience, perfect for those who prefer something with a little more complexity.
Best Beers to Drink at Home on Derby Day
Watching the Derby from home? You can still recreate the Churchill Downs experience with a well-curated beer selection. Here are some top picks:
• Classic Light Lagers – Bud Light, Coors Light, and Miller Lite are easy-drinking choices that won’t weigh you down during an all-day event.
• Bourbon Barrel-Aged Beers – Try Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale or Goose Island Bourbon County Stout for a rich, whiskey-infused experience that pays homage to the state’s bourbon heritage.
• Crisp Pilsners – A cold Stella Artois or Pilsner Urquell pairs well with Derby foods like hot browns and fried chicken.
• Hoppy IPAs – For those who prefer a more bitter bite, West Sixth IPA from Kentucky provides a flavorful, citrusy option.
Beer Consumption at the Derby
During the Kentucky Derby celebrations, a massive amount of participants rely on beer consumption to maintain their high energy levels. Weekend beer consumption at the Derby reaches an average of 425,000 cans thus confirming the event extends beyond cocktail consumption.
The Congratulations raise the total number of cheers as horses thunder their way along the race path. Many people at Churchill Downs choose beer as their main beverage thanks to its availability in stands and throughout all bars within the grounds.
