How to Host the Ultimate Kentucky Derby At Home Party in 2026

Apr 07, 2026 Kentucky Derby

Churchill Downs Partners with CAFÉ™ and Leading Tastemakers to Elevate Derby Day Everywhere

The Kentucky Derby has always been more than a race. It is a celebration of tradition, fashion, food, and unforgettable moments shared with friends and family. In 2026, Churchill Downs is bringing that magic directly into homes across the country through a new multi year partnership with CAFÉ™, alongside a curated group of culinary and entertaining tastemakers who are redefining what it means to host a Kentucky Derby at home party.

As millions of fans prepare for the 152nd Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 2, 2026, the message is clear: you do not have to be at Churchill Downs to experience the thrill of the Run for the Roses.

A Partnership Rooted in Style, Performance, and Kentucky Pride

Churchill Downs has officially partnered with CAFÉ™, a leader in customizable kitchen appliances known for design forward style and elevated performance, to inspire Derby at home entertaining experiences nationwide .

The collaboration unites two iconic Louisville brands with a shared commitment to hospitality, craftsmanship, and personal expression. CAFÉ appliances are designed to help hosts create curated culinary moments in sophisticated kitchen spaces, making it easier than ever to bring the elevated entertaining spirit of Churchill Downs into your own home .

Mary Putman, Vice President of Marketing and Brand for the GE Appliances House of Brands, shared that Derby inspired flavors honor tradition while inviting every at home cook to put their own twist on a classic, reinforcing that personal expression sits at the heart of both CAFÉ and the Kentucky Derby experience .

This partnership is not simply about appliances. It is about empowering fans to host with confidence, creativity, and style.

Meet the Tastemakers Behind the 2026 Kentucky Derby At Home Experience

To ensure fans have everything they need to host an unforgettable Derby Day celebration, Churchill Downs and CAFÉ have assembled a trio of influential tastemakers across food, cocktails, and hospitality.

Caroline Chambers: Curating the Official Kentucky Derby At Home Menu

New York Times bestselling cookbook author and culinary content creator Caroline Chambers has partnered with CAFÉ and Churchill Downs to curate a Kentucky Derby At Home menu .

Known for her approachable recipes and elevated comfort food, Caroline blends classic Derby traditions with fresh, creative twists that make hosting feel effortless. Using her own CAFÉ appliances, she has developed recipes that seamlessly infuse home celebrations with signature racetrack flavors .

From Derby inspired appetizers to elevated main dishes and desserts, her menu gives hosts a blueprint for recreating the culinary magic of Churchill Downs in their own kitchens.

Fans can access her curated recipes and party hosting tips at KentuckyDerby.com/derby-at-home.

Miguel Buencamino: Elevated Derby Cocktails with a Creative Edge

No Kentucky Derby party is complete without a perfectly crafted cocktail. Enter Miguel Buencamino, Charleston based recipe and drink creator known as Holy City Handcraft .

Miguel brings approachable cocktail recipes designed to impress guests while staying true to Derby Day staples. His modern interpretations of classic drinks, including the iconic Mint Julep, provide fans with easy to follow recipes that elevate the at home bar experience .

His contribution ensures that Derby Day hospitality extends beyond the kitchen and into every celebratory toast.

Xandy Sutherland Nickel: Entertaining with Style and Confidence

Hospitality expert Xandy Sutherland Nickel rounds out the 2026 tastemaker lineup, offering entertaining tips that help hosts transform their homes into Derby ready destinations .

From table settings and décor inspiration to guest flow and hosting etiquette, Xandy’s expertise helps fans capture the pageantry, warmth, and sophistication that define the Kentucky Derby.

Her guidance reinforces what Derby Day has always represented: gracious hosting, joyful gathering, and creating memories that last well beyond the final race.

How to Plan Your Kentucky Derby At Home Party in 2026

Whether you are a longtime racing enthusiast or hosting your first Derby watch party, the 2026 Kentucky Derby At Home program provides:

• A curated Derby Day menu from Caroline Chambers
• Cocktail recipes from Miguel Buencamino
• Hosting and décor inspiration from Xandy Sutherland Nickel
• Entertaining tools and kitchen inspiration powered by CAFÉ appliances
• Official resources and tips

Mark your calendar for the 152nd Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 2, 2026, and tune in to NBC to watch the greatest two minutes in sports .

Because while there is nothing like being at Churchill Downs, the spirit of the Kentucky Derby lives wherever friends gather, Mint Juleps are poured, and the roses are ready.

In 2026, the most exciting two minutes in sports can begin right in your own kitchen.