Now in its fourth year, the “Talk Derby to Me” party at The Iron Horse Hotel’s Branded bar (500 W. Florida St.) has become a Milwaukee tradition. Is it just an excuse to wear a silly hat and drink bourbon? Yes. Is there anything wrong with that? No. This is the closest Derby experience you’ll get outside of Churchill Downs.
“Iron Horse is known for quality events and we go to great lengths to recreate this iconic American event right here in Milwaukee with a live horse, mint juleps and bugler to kick off the race,” said General Manager Michael Falkenstein.
The Iron Horse will broadcast the 140th Run for the Roses, Saturday, May 3 on multiple screens throughout the lobby and Branded bar. The free event runs from 3-6 p.m. and the race starts promptly at 5:24 p.m. Milwaukee’s own Bugler Bill will provide the traditional “Call to the Post.”
Even if you know nothing about horse racing, enjoy some of that Southern hospitality with traditional mint juleps – $35 for a bottomless copper mug.
The Kentucky Derby is a fashionista’s favorite national sporting event and guests always show up in their Derby finest. Compete in the best hat contest for a chance to win a $50 bar tab and your photo taken in the Winner’s Circle with the hotel’s champion horse, Shemus.
The free event draws hundreds of people. For more details, call (414) 374-4766 or visit the Iron Horse’s website for more details.
NEWaukee is also hosting a Kentucky Derby viewing party at the Monarch Lounge at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center (509 W. Wisconsin Ave.) on Saturday, May 3 from 1-6 p.m.
Enjoy complimentary light apps, mint julep drink specials, two, 12-foot screens for viewing the Derby, live bluegrass music, a Derby-themed photo booth, hat contest for a free night’s stay at the Hilton and a 50/50 raffle. The event is also free and open to the public, but you should RSVP here: http://bit.ly/1rkcBc1.
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