ARTSQUEST ANNOUNCES 2022 DERBY WATCH PARTY

This year’s Derby Watch Party on May 7, presented by Noble Oak, will feature a Run for the Rosé wine tasting event, Derby style contest and hobby horseracing.

BETHLEHEM, Pa.— Spend the first Saturday in May partying at SteelStacks! ArtsQuest is proud to announce plans for a reimagined Derby Watch Party, presented by Noble Oak, on Sat., May 7. This event will include a Run for the Rosé wine tasting experience, a Derby style contest and hobby horseracing, as well as authentic infield and VIP experiences. Event tickets will go on sale at steelstacks.org beginning Tues., March 1. For more exclusive ticket opportunities, including discounts, become an ArtsQuest member or Circle donor today.

“The Derby is a cultural experience that reaches far beyond the world of sports,” Patrick Brogan, ArtsQuest’s Chief Programming Officer said. “As an arts organization, we wanted to make sure this event offered new festivities while keeping in the spirit and tradition surrounding the Derby. We can’t wait to offer this option for people living in the Lehigh Valley to get in on the party in creative ways.”

The Levitt lawn will be transformed into an experience emulating the relaxed party atmosphere of the infield at Kentucky’s Churchill Downs. Guests can watch the Derby broadcast live on a new LED screen and participate in lawn games and a hobby horseracing contest. The Mack Truck stop will be serving up themed food and drink specials from Noble Oak including mint juleps, the traditional drink of the Derby. VIP ticket holders will have exclusive access to the Air Products Town Square and Central Tap bar where an additional large LED screen will be broadcasting the run for the roses. Ticket holders will receive one free mint julep, a glass of rosé, Yuengling beer, or a nonalcoholic drink of choice. VIPs can also enjoy table service and Wyoming Whiskey samples. The party doesn’t stop after the big race, all guests are invited to stick around for free live music. Tickets to the infield are free for ArtsQuest members and $5 for the public. VIP tickets start at $45 for members and $49 for the public.

Guests are encouraged to express their interpretation of Derby fashion by dressing in their finest fascinators, hats or colorful bow ties. This year’s style contest will be judged by Elektra Fearce St. James (as seen at ArtsQuest’s Dragtoberfest and A Golden Girls Drag Show), Amber Galdamez of LuxeLatte and Christe Konopitski of Classically Christe. Prizes will be awarded for best hat, best dressed, best couple coordination and more. New this year, the Run for the Rosé wine tasting experience will feature eight different samples from around the world, provided by Juniper & Grain. Tickets are $19 and include admission to the Derby infield experience.  

Doors for all areas will open at 4 p.m. on Sat., May 7. Visit steelstacks.org for more information.