The excitement of the Kentucky Derby itself lasts for all of two minutes. However, fans of the event have turned the two-minute race into an all day affair. To celebrate, PA casinos are hosting extravagant parties with great food and drink specials, hat contests and food-eating contests.
Those who attend casino parties can bet on the Kentucky Derby at the party, or online using FanDuel Racing.
Where to watch the 2023 Kentucky Derby at PA casinos
Harrah’s Philadelphia
Harrah’s Philadelphia is the proud host of the largest derby party in the entire Delaware County section of Pennsylvania.
The Chester casino is hosting a free party for all ages to enjoy. The event includes music, a derby hat contest, cheesesteak eating contest, food and drink specials, entertainment and more.
It is held rain or shine at the racetrack, Philly Tap & Tavern and outdoor patio area.
Parx Casino
Parx Casino is hosting a derby party on its picnic grove in Bensalem.
A free party for families of all ages is scheduled from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m. at the picnic grove. Entertainment includes pony rides, moon bounces, face painters and more.
There will also be live music by Vinyl Countdown from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., with food and drink specials and souvenir merchandise.
Gates at Parx open at 10 a.m.
Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course
The Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course derby party starts at 2 p.m. on Saturday.
The party features food and drink specials, giveaways, a hat contest and a special live racing program at the racetrack.
Hollywood Casino at the Meadows
Hollywood Casino at the Meadows’ party begins at 11:30 a.m. on the Apron. Entertainment includes live harness racing and live music from DJ AJ Fresh.
There is also a hat contest beginning at 1 p.m. for a $1,000 grand prize.
Mohegan Pennsylvania
Mohegan Pennsylvania has big plans for derby day, which kicks off at 2 p.m.
Patrons must be 21 or older for the outdoor event. Those under 21 can access Pacer’s Lobby/Clubhouse.
Food trucks will be present at the party with plenty of drinks to go around for purchase. The party also consists of a cornhole tournament, hat revue contest and live music throughout the day by The JOB and Light up the Moon.
The prizes for the hat revue contest include:
- Most classic: $250 MPA gift card
- Most creative: $250 MPA gift card
- Best dressed couple: $500 MPA gift card
Presque Isle Downs
The Presque Isle Downs party starts at 11 a.m.
The casino is offering $5 mint juleps and a Party on the Patio, beginning at 2 p.m., which includes dining, drinking and partying on the patio with food trucks, as well as an outside bar.
The casino is also having a hat contest, in which the winner wins $500 in free play.
Presque Isle Downs is also adding to its Super 6 Saturday between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. If the jackpot is not claimed or hit, $2,000 will be added to the next drawing.
Earn 20 points beginning at 12 p.m., then pick your five numbers starting at 3 p.m. There are six chances to win free play or the progressive cash jackpot.
