Churchill Downs and CAFÉ™ Join Forces to Enhance Kentucky Derby Home Experiences

Enhancing Kentucky Derby Experiences at Home

In an exciting announcement, Churchill Downs Racetrack has formed a multi-year partnership with CAFÉ™, a brand known for its stylish kitchen appliances, aiming to enrich the at-home viewing experience of the famous Kentucky Derby®. This innovative collaboration will allow fans to bring the excitement of this iconic horse race right into their living rooms, inspiring them to host fabulous watch parties adorned with Derby-themed culinary creations.

A Culinary Partnership to Remember

The partnership with CAFÉ™ doesn't just stop at appliance aesthetics; it also extends to gastronomic delights. To elevate the watch party experience, Churchill Downs has enlisted the expertise of Caroline Chambers, a New York Times bestselling cookbook author. Caroline’s ability to transform traditional recipes with a fresh, creative twist will introduce fans to a menu that captures the essence of the Derby while remaining accessible for home cooks.

The 'Kentucky Derby At-Home' menu curated by Chambers merges time-honored Derby flavors with innovation. This initiative allows hosts to impress their guests with an array of delicious treats reminiscent of what one might find at Churchill Downs while at the same time granting them the freedom to express their unique culinary style.

The Spirit of the Derby – At Home

Mary Putman, the vice president of marketing for GE Appliances, emphasized the synergy between CAFÉ™ and Churchill Downs, stating, "Bringing together CAFÉ and Churchill Downs unites two iconic Louisville brands and brings the entertaining spirit of the Kentucky Derby into home kitchens nationwide." This partnership goes beyond just food; it encourages fans to celebrate Derby traditions in their homes, thus creating a bridge that connects them to the race, despite being miles away from the track.

Embracing the Community

In line with this initiative, Churchill Downs has also reached out to content creators to provide fans with additional resources. Among them are cocktail recipes from Miguel Buencamino, a drink expert based in Charleston, and entertaining insights from hospitality guru Xandy Sutherland Nickel. Their contributions will help fans create the ultimate Derby-day atmosphere, fostering a community spirit and a shared love for the race.

Michelle Walkup, marketing director of Churchill Downs Racetrack, stated, "We want viewers around the globe to be able to experience the spirit of the Kentucky Derby beyond the race itself, and food and drinks are a key part of any Derby day celebration." This commitment to community and celebration further solidifies the connection between fans and the iconic event.

Innovation Meets Tradition

CAFÉ™ has made a name for itself by offering customizable kitchen appliances that reflect the owner's style. This aligns perfectly with the ethos of the Derby, where personal expression and creativity are celebrated. By merging culinary arts with home entertainment, fans can seamlessly blend the rich traditions of the Kentucky Derby with modern hosting practices.

The partnership's focus on accessibility ensures that anyone can host a Derby party, regardless of cooking experience. The curated resources aim to demystify the cooking process, bringing people together over food, drinks, and the thrill of the race, all while fostering a spirit of creativity.

As the countdown to the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby on May 2, 2026, begins, fans can eagerly anticipate not just the race, but a rich experience filled with delightful dishes and joyful gatherings. For those interested in hosting their own Kentucky Derby watch parties, additional resources, including Chambers’ At-Home Menu and tips from revered experts, are accessible online.

This creative collaboration between Churchill Downs, CAFÉ™, and culinary experts not only enhances the Derby experience but also reinforces the joy of bringing people together over memorable meals and festivities. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a passionate race enthusiast, the tools and inspirations provided will ensure that your at-home Kentucky Derby celebration is nothing short of spectacular!

For more details about hosting tips and culinary inspirations, visit the official Kentucky Derby website.