For those who enjoy the energy of the Kentucky Derby but not the crowds that come with attending Churchill Downs, Owensboro offers a nice compromise.
O.Z. Tyler Distillery will host its third annual Derby Viewing Party from 3 – 9 p.m. on May 4. Attendees will be able to watch the Run for the Roses on multiple screens at the Bottling House of the historic distillery, all while donning fabulous hats and sipping mint juleps.
According to O.Z. Tyler Event Coordinator Nicole Ebelhar, the event drew 200 people last year and they expect to see the same again.
This year will feature food trucks from Real Hacienda and J’s Good Grub, cash bars, hat contests and more. Everyone who attends will be entered for a chance to win a barrelhead with this year’s Derby party logo made by Rough River Metal Works.
For those interested in wagering, Ebelhar said attendees will be able to place Derby bets by downloading the TwinSpires App on their phones.
Race time is at 5:50 p.m., and the after party will begin at 6 with Indianapolis-based musician Ashton Wolf and his gang of dueling pianos kicking off the evening.
The event is for ages 21 and up. Tickets are on sale now at www.oztylerdistillery.com/derby for $25, or at the door the day of the event for $30.
