Downtown Derby

Marc Wolbert, general manager at Midtown Brewing Co., is excited to bring the event to Downtown Lansing.

“Nobody does a derby party anymore,” he said.

Midtown Brewing Co. is creating some special bourbon-based drinks for the occasion, including a Balsamic Strawberry Smash and an “amplified” whiskey sour. And, of course, there will be mint juleps.

“You can’t have a Kentucky Derby party without mint juleps,” said Wolbert.

The bar will also serve a drink called simply “the Derby,” which combines bourbon with lime juice, sweet vermouth and Grand Marnier. Wolbert describes the complex taste of the drink as sweet, sour and just a little peppery.

A complimentary buffet table will feature Kentucky-inspired fare, including shrimp cocktail and burgoo, a spicy stew that is a staple of bluegrass state gatherings.

“It’s like a Kentucky chili,” said Wolbert — though not made with squirrel, which was the original recipe.

Attendees will also have a chance to take home some Kentucky Derby-themed gift baskets. Those who correctly pick the winning horse will be entered into a drawing for three gift baskets.

First prize is a $100 gift certificate to Midtown Brewing Co., a bottle of Basil Hayden’s Kentucky bourbon, a Kentucky Derby mint julep cup, a Kentucky Derby hat and a Kentucky Derby bag. Second prize is a $50 gift certificate, a bottle of Kentucky bourbon, a Kentucky Derby hat and four Kentucky Derby glasses.

Third prize is a $25 gift certificate, a bottle of Kentucky bourbon and four Kentucky Derby glasses.

Downtown Lansing Kentucky Derby Party

Hosted by City Pulse and Midtown Brewing Co. 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, May 2 FREE Midtown Brewing Co. 402 S. Washington Square, Lansing (517) 977-1349, midtownbrewingco.com