The Kentucky Derby is known as the "fastest two minutes in sports," but hosting can make those minutes feel much longer. You don't want to miss the photo finish because you were stuck in the kitchen making complicated drinks. These 13 recipes are quick, cold, and simple to refill, so you can focus on the horses instead of the ice bucket. They bring all the race day energy to your home without any of the hosting stress.
Blackberry Bourbon Smash
Fresh berries are mashed in the glass to create a dark juice that mixes perfectly with bourbon. This is a refreshing, fruity drink that stands up to a loud race day crowd. It is exactly what you want to hold when the horses hit the final stretch.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Bourbon Smash
Classic Virgin Mojito Mocktail
Fresh mint and lime make this a bubbly drink that keeps everyone feeling bright and awake. It is a big crowd-pleaser that guests can sip on all afternoon. It is very easy to make more, so you won't miss a single cheer from the television.
Get the Recipe: Classic Virgin Mojito Mocktail
Raspberry Mojito Mocktail
Adding a few mashed berries makes this drink look much more fancy than the work it actually takes. It is a bright, cold sip that feels just right for a warm May afternoon. You can make a big batch quickly so your guests stay happy from the start to the finish.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Mojito Mocktail
Blackberry Mint Magic Mojito Mocktail
This version uses dark berries to make the drink stand out on a table full of lemonade. It feels a bit more special, making it a great pick for when you want your party to feel like a real event. It stays light enough to keep everyone's focus on the racetrack.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Mint Magic Mojito Mocktail
Lemon Mojito Mocktail
Using lemon instead of lime gives this a sharp, sunny taste that is great for a hot day. It is a simple choice for anyone who wants a drink that is refreshing but not too complicated. You can mix these up in rounds between races without missing any of the action.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Mojito Mocktail
Lemon Mint Lemonade
This is better than a basic drink because the mint makes it feel like it belongs in a fancy silver cup. You can make a huge pitcher before the party starts and let people help themselves. It is the best way to keep your job as a host very easy.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Mint Lemonade
Homemade Lemonade Recipe
There is nothing like a classic, tart lemonade when the sun is out and the horses are running. Everyone knows and loves this flavor, so you can spend less time explaining the drink and more time watching the race. A big bowl of ice is all you need to keep it perfect.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lemonade Recipe
Homemade Strawberry Lemonade
Adding strawberries gives this a pink color that matches the pretty floral hats people wear to the Derby. It feels like a celebration in a glass and gives your guests a sweet, fruity treat. This is usually the first pitcher to go empty because it is so easy to drink.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Strawberry Lemonade
Homemade Sweet Tea
You can't have a Southern party without a big gallon of sweet tea on the table. It is a smooth classic that never goes out of style. It is perfect for those long times before the race when you just want something cold and familiar to hold.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Sweet Tea
Lemon Iced Tea Mocktail
This is a mix between tea and a lemon drink, making it very light and easy to sip all day. It isn't too sweet, so it goes great with party snacks. You can serve this in big batches to make sure no one ever has an empty cup.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Iced Tea Mocktail
Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Sour Mocktail Recipe
This mocktail gives you a fancy drink experience without the alcohol. It has a special, frothy look that makes you feel like you are actually at the racetrack. It is very quick to shake up, adding a touch of class to your party with almost no effort.
Get the Recipe: Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Sour Mocktail Recipe
Non-Alcoholic Old Fashioned Mocktail
This is a great pick for guests who want a drink that feels traditional and bold. It is a slow-sipping drink that keeps the mood high while everyone waits for the big race to start. It shows that you have thought of everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Non-Alcoholic Old Fashioned Mocktail
Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Recipe with Muddled Sugar
Watching the Derby without a mint julep just doesn't feel right. This version uses fresh mint and sugar to make your whole party feel official. It is the most famous drink of the day and the one recipe everyone will ask you to share.
Get the Recipe: Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Recipe with Muddled Sugar
