Are you wanting to recreate the thrill of the Kentucky Derby right here in Colorado? With its rich traditions, exciting races, and extravagant hats, the Kentucky Derby is the perfect excuse to gather your friends for a memorable watch party. And what better place to host it than at NoCo Hive Collective, a small party venue located just east of Old Town Fort Collins, offering an intimate setting for gatherings of under 50 guests.

Setting the Scene at NoCo Hive Collective

The first step in hosting a memorable Kentucky Derby watch party is setting the scene. NoCo Hive Collective provides the ideal backdrop with its modern and intimate atmosphere, perfect for bringing friends together to celebrate. Nestled close to Old Town Fort Collins, this venue offers convenience and ease in equal measure. The Great Room boasts two giant TVs that will make you feel like you’re down in Kentucky. Your rental includes room set up and breakdown, cleaning before and after, as well as access to great amenities such as ample parking and a fully equipped kitchen.  Play with the modular tables & cocktail high tops to design the perfect watch party set up - view some ideas on how the space can be designed.

Decorate the space with classic Kentucky Derby motifs such as horseshoes, jockey silks, and plenty of roses—the official flower of the Kentucky Derby. You can transform the space into your own Derby oasis, complete with checkered tablecloths and equestrian-themed centerpieces. Encourage your guests to don their most extravagant hats—the more over-the-top, the better!

Derby Day Delights for Your Party Guests

No watch party is complete without delicious food and drinks, and the Kentucky Derby offers plenty of inspiration in that department. One of the greatest things about hosting at NoCo Hive Collective is you have all the creative free rein when it comes to the menu. You can do it yourself in our beautiful kitchen, hire a private chef - one of our local faves is Chef Dane, or choose from one of many catering options in Fort Collins. Either way, you have to take advantage of the theme and serve up traditional Southern fare such as bourbon-glazed meatballs, pimento cheese sandwiches, and shrimp and grits. If you are interested in providing libations, a TIPS certified bartender is required – but who wants to be making the mint juleps at your own party anyways, right?

For dessert, indulge your guests with decadent treats like bourbon pecan pie, Derby pie, and of course, mint julep cupcakes. With NoCo Hive Collective's rentable space, you'll have all the room you need to set up a dessert station fit for a Derby queen.

Betting and Games to Imitate an Immersive Derby Experience  

No Kentucky Derby watch party would be complete without a little friendly wagering. Set up a betting pool and encourage your guests to place bets on their favorite horses even though you’re miles away from the action. With NoCo Hive Collective's versatile space, you can easily create a designated area for betting and socializing.

In addition to betting on the races, consider incorporating other Derby-themed games and activities into your party. Get a friendly cornhole tournament going (two sets are available with your rental!), organize a best-dressed contest for guests wearing the most extravagant hats, or even set up a pin the tail on the race horse game for the little party goers.

At NoCo Hive Collective Your Derby Watch Party Will be a Smash

Hosting a Kentucky Derby watch party at NoCo Hive Collective in Fort Collins is a fantastic way to bring friends together for an afternoon of excitement, camaraderie, and Southern hospitality. By setting the scene with festive decorations, serving up delicious Derby-inspired fare, and incorporating fun games and activities, you can create an unforgettable experience that your guests will be talking about for years to come. So, dust off your best hat, mix up a mint julep, and get ready to cheer on your favorite horses as they thunder down the home stretch to victory! Booking is easy so reserve today before someone else beats you to it.