Derby Day Potluck

Honey Glazed Ham: Thinly sliced ham served in buttermilk biscuits is a Derby Day treat.

(Note: As host, it might be easier if you deal with the ham. Your guests can bring the rest.)

Asparagus Quiche: Fresh asparagus, savory bacon, and Swiss cheese are baked into a springtime quiche.

Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie: Kentucky bourbon gives this Southern classic a real kick.

Mint Juleps: The only drink to serve at a Derby Day party.

A grand tradition since 1875, the annual Kentucky Derby (held this year on May 2) has been called the most exciting two minutes in sports. Devoted fans rate this "run for the roses" as one of the year's most important reasons to throw a party, second only to New Year's Eve. So what are you waiting for?

Derby-goers are divided into two camps: the rich and famous in Millionaire's Row with their perfectly pressed linens and gorgeous silk dresses, and the Infielders--earthy, raucous, and widely suspected of having more fun.

Here are some ideas for making like you're at Churchill Downs:

• Start your party early so you have plenty of time for horseplay leading up to the race.
• If you're channeling Millionaire's Row, break out the white tablecloths and the good china.
• More of an Infielder? Spring for Derby-themed accessories such as the "Talk Derby To Me" party goods at atasteofkentucky.com. (Hint: place your order early!)
• Hats are a must at any Derby Day party, so compete to see who's got serious hat-a-tude. Go crazy with thrift store hats, ribbons, toy horses, and hot glue guns.
• Pass out kazoos so you can all play along to the "Call to the Post."
• Go red. Make a big cardboard frame for your flat screen and glue red tissue paper roses to it. Fashion an enormous horseshoe of paper roses and fill your home with (what else) bouquets of fresh red roses.
• Visit the Derby's official site to get the inside scoop on the four-legged contenders. We're not condoning gambling, but would it hurt to make up a racing form?
• Give out Kentucky state quarters as party souvenirs--there's a thoroughbred horse on the reverse.