The Phoenician’s 7th Annual Derby Day Porch Party Returns on Saturday, May 2
Saddle Up for Scottsdale’s Most Stylish Kentucky Derby Party 🐎🌸
If you can’t make it to Churchill Downs this year, don’t worry—Scottsdale is bringing the thrill, fashion, and Southern charm straight to you. The seventh annual Derby Day Porch Party at Mowry & Cotton is back, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting (and stylish) events of the season.
On Saturday, May 2 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., guests are invited to celebrate the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby in true Southern fashion—complete with mint juleps, big hats, and plenty of race-day excitement.
🥂 A Kentucky Derby Party in the Heart of Scottsdale
Set inside The Phoenician’s signature restaurant, Mowry & Cotton, this Derby Day celebration transforms the dining room and porch into a lively viewing party. With multiple screens streaming the race, you won’t miss a second of the “fastest two minutes in sports.”
Feeling lucky? Guests can join in the fun with win, place, and show contests, where prizes await those who pick the winning horses.
👒 Dress to Impress: Derby Fashion at Its Finest
No Kentucky Derby party is complete without iconic fashion. This is your chance to go all out:
- Statement hats and fascinators
- Bright spring dresses
- Crisp suits and bold bow ties
There will be best dressed contests, so bring your A-game—you might just walk away a winner before the race even begins.
🍹 Mint Juleps & Southern-Inspired Bites
Come hungry, because the menu is packed with elevated Southern classics and indulgent treats. Highlights include:
Savory favorites:
- Deviled eggs with caviar
- Fried green tomatoes
- Shrimp and grits
- Hot browns and hanger steak
- Pimento dip with fresh crudité
Sweet treats:
- Peach upside-down cake
- Pecan shortbread
- Milk chocolate banana tart
And of course, it wouldn’t be Derby Day without a classic mint julep—served in a commemorative copper cup you get to take home. Guests will also enjoy bourbon tastings, with Woodford Reserve offering samples and limited-edition bottles available for purchase (and even custom engraving).
📸 Entertainment, Experiences & Extras
Beyond the race, this event is packed with memorable moments:
- A live DJ setting the party vibe
- A 360-degree camera for share-worthy content
- Photo ops with a VIP guest racehorse 🐴
- A curated gift bag filled with goodies
Even better? A portion of the proceeds supports After the Homestretch–Arizona, a nonprofit dedicated to retraining and rehoming retired racehorses.
Meet this year’s special guest, Ship It Red—an 11-year-old Kentucky-bred veteran with an impressive 76 starts and more than $200,000 in career earnings. Retired sound from racing, he joined After the Homestretch–Arizona at the end of February and has already won hearts with his striking looks and gentle nature. Currently in retraining, Ship It Red is on the path to finding his forever home.
🎟️ Tickets & Event Details
- Price: $210 per person (all-inclusive)
- Includes: Food, two cocktails, bourbon tastings, commemorative cup, entertainment, parking, and more
- Location: Mowry & Cotton at The Phoenician, Scottsdale
