The Kentucky Derby, which takes place on May 6 this year, is more than just a horse race — it’s a chance for you to slip into something classic and go full on decadent. For those who don’t mind little chance and a lot of luck, the Derby is a great time of the year, and where else outside of Kentucky would you celebrate in style? New York City, of course. In New York, the Kentucky Derby is a tradition among certain establishments, and for those who want to get in we’ve rounded up the best spots to enjoy the Kentucky Derby.

The Bell House
The venue that hosts all events imaginable in Gowanus is doing what they do best for the Derby. This party will be during the afternoon of Saturday, May 6, with doors at 2 PM followed by Brooklyn’s very own Baby Soda Jazz band. Then, of course, the race will be projected on the big screen. (149 7th St., Brooklyn; 718-643-6510)

SIDEbar
The infamous sports bar in Union Square loves any excuse to host a bash. This year, in the spirit of the Derby, SIDEbar is having an open bar from 5 PM to 7 PM. With juleps and moonshine cocktails being offered all day for only $8, it’s a spirited way to root for the horses. Wearing your finest Southern hat will get you a complimentary mint julep. (118 E 15th St.; 212-677-2900)

21 Club
Over in Midtown West, 21 Club has also made a tradition out of the annual Kentucky Derby. With a lavish interior that seems made from the very aesthetic principle of the Derby, it is no surprise that 21 Club really enjoys this event. This year, like in years past, tickets are available for the festivities for $65 and will feature two Maker’s Mark mint juleps along with their signature Triple Crown cocktail made only for the derby season. (21 W 52nd St.; 212-582-7200)

Cooper’s Craft & Kitchen
With televisions available at Cooper’s to watch all the action and drama of the race, you can root for your favorite horse with $10 mint juleps in hand. Dressing to the nines for the occasion is strongly suggested as first, it’s just the thing to do for the derby, and, second, the best dressed will win a $100 cash prize. (169 8th Ave., New York, NY; 646-661-7711)

Sweetwater Social
Over in Greenwich Village, the infamous swanky cocktail haunt Sweetwater Social is hosting their Kentucky Derby party. Along with a special southern style menu created just for the derby, Derby fashioned cocktails like the Garland of Roses and the Larceny Bourbon Julep will be offered. Patrons can even opt for two kinds of bourbon flights, the Bottled in Bond and the Barrel Mingling for $25. Dress in full on Southern gentry garb for the opportunity to win prizes like best hat, best dressed, and more.This event is by reservations only so make your ahead of time for your Kentucky Derby experience like no other. (643 Broadway; 212-253-0477)

Maison Premiere
This infamous Williamsburg oysters and absinthe parlor is more than ready for the Triple Crown season. With a chic interior and polished mustache touting staff, it’s a no brainer that such an establishment would welcome the Kentucky Derby in style. The party starts at 2 PM and ends at 8 PM, but you can always stick around for more oysters. A live band will be entraining patrons and when the race starts it will be broadcasted via radio for all to participate. (298 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn; 347-335-0446)

Photo via Flickr user Bill Brine