2023 Kentucky Derby Hat Party

Kentucky Derby Hat Party
Saturday, May 6, 2023 (5pm to 7:30pm) 

Don’t miss the best two minutes in sports! From 5pm-7:30pm, we’re hosting the Kentucky Derby Hat Party on the terrace at The Equestrian Hotel. Pull out your best derby attire and catch all the action on our Jumbotrons as Thoroughbreds take to the track to race the iconic first leg of the Triple Crown. 

The Hat Party features chef-attended action stations serving a fresh variety of small plates inspired by the Bluegrass state. The included bar will serve beer, wine, Mint Juleps and two other derby-day specialty cocktails; cash bar available with additional upgraded options. 

Tickets will include your choice of one derby hat OR a Woodford bourbon bottle per person (first-come, first-served).

Ticket Price: $225 per person (gratuity included, taxes and service fees additional)

Please Note: Event is 21+.

Menu for the event:  

CHILLED

• Hog island oysters, Kentuckyaki cucumber kimchi, benne seeds, togarashi


• Crimson watermelon agua chile, Key West pink shrimp, datil pepper, citrus 

TASTERS

• Deviled eggs, pimento cheese, smoked paprika, bacon dust


• Benedictine spread featuring “garden-cuterie”, benne wafers


• Mini hot browns, peppermill turkey, country ham biscuit, mornay 

GARDEN

• Artisan greens, heirloom beets, shaved root vegetables, bluegrass soy vinaigrette


• Black-eyed-pea salad, Vidalia onion, long beans, bourbon sorghum dressing

ACTION STATIONS 

• Bourbon peach burgoo, braised short rib, new potatoes, spring onion


• Bourbon-maple-stung fried chicken


• Bourbon yaki quinoa, stir fried vegetables, crisp tofu, lotus root

SIDES

• “Hoppin’ john” rice


• Pimento mac ‘n’ cheese


• Derby green beans, garlic butter, Aleppo pepper

SWEETS

• Bourbon-vanilla bread pudding


• Kentucky walnut cake bites


• Blackberry cobbler 

PLEASE NOTE:  
* Pricing is inclusive of gratuity. Taxes and online service fees may still apply.
* This is a reception style event.  Seating will be first come first serve.   
* Refunds will not be issued within 48 hours of the event, unless the event is canceled by World Equestrian Center – Ocala due to inclement weather.

If you have questions regarding this event, please reach out to:
Kim Kent, Special Events Manager
1390 NW 80th Ave Ocala, FL 34482
Office: 352-414-7855 | kimberly.kent@wec.net
www.wec.net