Spring has sprung and the main event of the season is upon us. The 140th annual Kentucky Derby will be held over the weekend of May 2 — 3, and DC is ready to break out the fancy shorts, sundresses and oversized hats in celebration of this classic event. Here are five of our favorite places to sip mint juleps and feel like you’re next to the fence at the races.

6th Annual Kentucky Derby Day Party
The Park at Fourteenth (920 14th Street NW)
Perry School Community Service Center is hosting their annual Kentucky Derby Day Party for the sixth consecutive year on Saturday, May 3, 4 - 7 PM. The drinks will be flowing, food plentiful, and company merry. Tickets are $25 in advance, and $30 at the door. For more information regarding tickets and event details, visit the Perry School Community Service Center website here.

Bourbon DC (2321 18th St. NW; 202-332-0800; 2348 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-625-7770)
Start the morning strong right out of the gate with a first come, first serve derby inspired brunch starting at 12 PM. To accompany brunch, you’ll be able to enjoy a variety of cocktail specials for the big event.

Eatonville (2121 14th St. NW; 202-332-9671)
To be right in the action, enjoy classic and derby style cocktail special while watching the race on the jumbo screen in the main bar area.

Vineoteca (1940 11th St. NW; 202-332-9463)
Although typically known for their extensive vino selection, Vineoteca will be featuring summery drinks and champagne cocktails appealing to those in seersucker shorts and sundresses alike.

Round Robin & Scotch Bar (1401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 202-628-9100)
You can bet the farm, Round Robin Bar is the well-known establishment serving up the best mint juleps in the city. Where better to round the final corner of this historic sporting event than the VIP box of bars.

Photo: Flickr user boboroshi