The Ultimate Derby Street Festival Experience
The Twisted Tail is bringing the spirit of Churchill Downs to Headhouse Square for an all-day celebration, sponsored by Beam Suntory. Here's what attendees can expect:
- Race Viewing: Catch all the pre-race coverage and the main event itself on a massive jumbotron screen.
- Live Music: Enjoy a full afternoon of live blues and rock & roll from local legends on an outdoor stage, starting at 12 PM and culminating just before race time at 6 PM. The lineup features The Twisted Tail's own headliner, Mikey Jr.
- Derby Attire Contests: Dress the part! Attendees are encouraged to wear their best Derby outfits for a chance to win the Best Ladies Hat and Most Dapper Gent competitions.
- Lawn Games: Engage in some friendly competition with classic lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga.
- Raffles & Giveaways: Sip on Mint Juleps for a chance to win! Every purchase comes with a raffle ticket, and attendees can enter the winning horse draw for various prizes.
Sipping on Derby Delights
No Kentucky Derby party is complete without the signature drink.
- Maker's Mark Mint Julep Tent: A dedicated tent will be serving freshly mixed, classic Mint Juleps ($12) featuring Maker's Mark bourbon.
- Outdoor Bar: Find other refreshing options including Hornitos Margaritas ($10), Spiked Lemonades ($10), and draft beers ($7).
Sizzling Southern Flavors
The Twisted Tail Outdoor Grill Tent will be serving up a menu of BBQ favorites with a Southern twist:
- Expect delicious options like Chicken Skewers, BBQ Glazed Meatballs, Cheeseburgers, Kobe Beef Hot Dogs with Bacon Jam, Chorizo Tacos, Pork Belly Sliders, and more.
Elevate Your Experience: The VIP Option
For those seeking an extra touch of extravagance, a limited number of VIP tickets are available for $50. This exclusive experience takes place in The Twisted Tail's second-floor Club Room and includes:
- Access to a VIP-only area
- DIY flower crown station
- Commemorative julep cup
- One complimentary Mint Julep (with raffle ticket)
- Maker's Mark tasting (12 PM – 5 PM)
- Derby Day swag (while supplies last)
VIP tickets can be purchased online at: [Link to purchase VIP tickets - replace with actual link from aidsfundphilly dot org/gaybingo as per the (likely erroneous) press release context, or ideally, find the correct link via Twisted Tail/Eventbrite] (Note: The provided link seems incorrect for this event, verify the correct purchase link)
Party Continues Inside
The celebration doesn't end with the race! The full Twisted Tail menu will be available inside the restaurant (509 S. 2nd St.) all day long. As the sun sets, the party moves indoors with live music continuing in the Juke Joint upstairs. Seating inside is first come, first served (no reservations).
"We’re stepping up our Derby Day celebration this year with even more fun and excitement," said George Reilly, owner of The Twisted Tail. From the festive street party atmosphere in Headhouse Square to the delicious food, classic Mint Juleps, live music, and exciting VIP options, The Twisted Tail's Kentucky Derby Party is the place to be in Philadelphia on May 3rd. It's free to attend the outdoor festival, so grab your best hat and get ready to celebrate the Run for the Roses Philly style!
