Non-Alcoholic Kentucky Derby Drinks for Derby Day
These refreshing Kentucky Derby drinks feature alcohol-free Kentucky Derby cocktails and lemonades that highlight simple ingredients like fruit juices and club soda.
Need a delicious cocktail that’s alcohol-free for Derby Day?
We’ve got you covered!
We’re sharing non-alcohol fine beverages and mocktails that are popular choices for Derby week and prove you can have a good time without the booze!
Find different variations of classic drinks along with novel drink recipes you’ve probably never seen before.
Whether you’re after classic drinks from the Southern United States or horse racing favorites that pair perfectly with gourmet buffets, this post has it all.
They’re the best kid-friendly drinks for any Kentucky Derby party (great for the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes, too) that bring the full race day energy!
Click the links for the full recipes!
Non-Alcoholic Kentucky Derby Drinks
Here’s a kid-friendly twist on the classic mint julep! With fresh mint, orange juice, pureed mango, vanilla extract, and homemade mint simple syrup, this mint julep recipe is the perfect play on the signature cocktail!
Light and refreshing, this alcohol-free mojito is a healthy drink to serve at your party, finished with a lemon wedge and mint garnish!
This stunning pink lavender drink is easy to make and the perfect way to elevate race day!
Perfect for spring and summer, this blueberry mocktail is a crowd-favorite that never disappoints!
Want something a little more sweet? Try this raspberry sherbet punch that’s stunningly pink and totally kid-friendly!
This non-alcoholic cocktail has the perfect combination of flavors and just the right amount of crisp bite from the pineapple.
This sparkling lemonade takes the classic summer drink to the next level. Simple to make, and great for a crowd, it’s the perfect addition to your drink menu.
Sangria is a classic cocktail that celebrates summer fruit. This alcohol-free version is sure to be a hit!
Need some party snacks, too?
If you’re liking these Kentucky Derby drinks, make sure you try these crowd-pleasing Kentucky Derby snack ideas!
Here’s a sneak peek of the 28 recipes in the post!
Here’s a modern twist and traditional lemonade using pea flower to create this stunning ombre effect.
10. Peach Lemonade
Peaches, lemonade, it doesn’t get much more southern than that. Everyone will love this refreshing drink!
Here’s how to make a simple and delicious strawberry lemonade mocktail, finished with mint leaves and sparkling perfection!
This homemade lemonade with wild flowers includes a simple syrup recipe for the ultimate party drink!
This sweet and tart grapefruit drink is perfect for large groups and so easy to throw together at the last minute!
14. Peach Mocktail
Here’s another peach drink to share with your friends and family. It’s a sweet, kid-friendly drink that won’t last long!
How beautiful is this homemade lavender lemonade?! This stunning drink is easy to make and sure to be a show-stopper!
Main Dish and Side Pairings
Here are some of our favorite Kentucky Derby main dish recipes and easy sides that pair perfectly with these mocktails.
- Brown Sugar Dry Rub Smoked Brisket Recipe
- 13 Unique Summer Coleslaw Recipes
- Pulled Pork with Coke and Brown Sugar
This pineapple mojito mocktail is a yummy drink that’s as delicious as it is pretty. Perfect for race day and Cinco de Mayo!
17. Mango Mocktail
Simple and refreshing, this mango mocktail is always a party favorite.
If you like watermelmon, you’ll love this mocktail recipe that’s perfect for Derby Day and all season long!
This Aussie mocktail recipe features a sour mix of lemon and lime juice that’s bright, vibrant, and an ideal thirst quencher for spring and summer.
Pour this stunning drink from your mixing glass and watch it disappear in a flash! It’s pretty, refreshing, and so easy to make!
Combine mango and lemon juice to make this flavorful blended lemonade you won’t be able to put down!
FAQs
The most popular options are mocktail versions of classics like the Mint Julep, mint lemonade, and ginger beer–based drinks like a Kentucky Mule mocktail. Fruity punches and sweet tea drinks are also big favorites for Derby parties.
A Mint Julep mocktail is made with fresh mint, simple syrup, crushed ice, and a non-alcoholic base like lemonade, iced tea, or a bourbon alternative. It keeps the refreshing, minty flavor without the alcohol.
Classic Southern flavors like mint, peach, lemon, and berries are the most popular. These fresh, bright flavors pair perfectly with springtime Derby celebrations.
Serve mocktails in large pitchers or drink dispensers so guests can help themselves. Add garnishes like fresh mint, sliced fruit, or frozen berries for a festive presentation.
You can replace alcohol with ingredients like sparkling water, ginger beer, lemonade, iced tea, or non-alcoholic spirits. These keep the drinks flavorful and fun without the alcohol.
Yes! Mocktails are becoming more popular at Derby parties so everyone can enjoy a festive drink. They’re especially great for kids, guests who don’t drink, or daytime celebrations.
Your Turn
Whether you’re actually at the race track for live racing or hosting a viewing party from afar, we hope this list helped you find a winning cocktail recipe (or a few) for Derby Season and the triple crown.
We love rounding up yummy recipes for our readers, and this list is no exception.
Let’s hear from you!
What did you think of these Kentucky Derby drinks? Do you have a signature drink you think we should add? Have you planned your own Derby party party before?
Let us know in the comments!
