Exploring America’s Top Kentucky Derby Enthusiast States
When the Kentucky Derby gallops onto the calendar each spring, passion for horse racing spreads across the nation. With traditions like bold hats, flavorful Mint Juleps, and vibrant watch parties, communities everywhere find ways to join this iconic sporting event, also known as “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports.” In celebration of this enduring spectacle, we analyzed festivities and engagement from coast to coast to uncover which states are truly wild about the Derby.
How We Measured Kentucky Derby Devotion
Ahead of the 2024 race, a comprehensive survey of 3,000 adults from across the U.S. was conducted. Respondents were polled about how they planned to celebrate—whether attending the races in person, tuning in from home, hosting themed events, sampling classic Southern treats, or making a wager on their favorite horse. The findings were calculated using a weighted index across eight core Derby activities to pinpoint the most enthusiastic states.
Key Highlights from the Research
- Mississippi stands out as the most dedicated Derby state, earning a remarkable index score of 85.7 out of 100.
- Kentucky, the race’s home turf, takes second place with a score of 52.2.
- New Mexico claims the bronze, securing third place with a score of 40.1.
- Nearly half of all surveyed Americans (48%) anticipate betting on the Derby, planning to spend an average of $70.80 on wagers this year.
Which States Top the Kentucky Derby Spirit Index?
To identify Derby devotion, we evaluated responses relating to everything from event attendance and streaming to fashion, food, games, and betting enthusiasm. Here’s how the states stacked up:
Mississippi races ahead as the clear Derby leader this year. The Magnolia State boasts the highest percentage of residents attending the Derby in person, with a lively 67% joining or hosting themed gatherings. On average, celebrants there will enjoy 2.3 Mint Juleps while dressing to the nines—every single respondent plans to don Derby attire. Additionally, 100% reported participating in horse-related party games and wagering an average of $46.66. Mississippi’s vibrant embrace of Derby traditions puts it at the front of the pack.
Kentucky follows in second place. While its residents might have the easiest access to the festivities, only 8% are planning to attend the races in person—still the fourth highest rate in the country. Over half will be streaming the event, and 44% will host or go to Derby-themed parties. Fashion remains part of the celebration, with 38% choosing stylish Derby outfits. Although Mint Julep consumption is comparatively modest, almost 70% plan to indulge in classic Southern cuisine. Meanwhile, 75% will be betting, with an impressive average wager of $80.58 per person—14% above the national average.
New Mexico finishes third, with 10% of respondents attending in person (the second highest state attendance), and 30% watching from home. Party culture is strong, as 25% plan celebrations and will dress the part. Classic Derby snacks are also popular, with 75% partaking. Although betting is less pronounced here, with just 25% participating and an average stake of $10, the spirit of celebration endures.
Rounding out the top five are Washington and Idaho. Washington secures fourth place, propelled by 8% of its residents making the trip for the Derby, while 42% will place bets averaging $79 apiece. Idaho lands in fifth, with all surveyed Idahoans placing bets—averaging $127.50, the highest Derby wager in the nation.
Noteworthy State Derby Traditions and Leaders
While Mississippi, Kentucky, and New Mexico dominate the overall index, several other states stand out in unique ways:
- Best Attire and Horse Games: Mississippi leads for residents dressing up and embracing horse-themed games, with 14.2% attending the event in person—the most nationwide.
- Streaming Champs: New Hampshire tops live streaming stats, with 62% tuning in from home.
- Ultimate Party State: Wyoming earns social bragging rights, as every respondent plans to attend or host a Derby bash.
- Mint Julep Lovers: Idaho takes first for average Mint Juleps consumed, with an average of three cocktails per person.
- Southern Cuisine Enthusiasts: Idaho and Oklahoma tie for their enthusiasm, with 100% indulging in Derby day Southern dishes.
- Top Betting States: Idaho, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Wyoming all report 100% of respondents betting on the Derby. Idaho sets the highest wager average in the nation, at $127.50, which is 80% above the national average.
Conclusion: The Unifying Power of the Derby
These findings capture the diverse and creative ways Americans celebrate the Kentucky Derby, from lavish parties and culinary spreads to lively games and spirited wagers. Whether you’re cheering trackside in Kentucky, hosting a themed gathering in Mississippi, or simply savoring a Mint Julep at home, it’s clear the Derby is an event that brings people together every spring. No matter which horse claims the garland, the Derby’s unifying traditions make everyone a winner.
How the Kentucky Derby State Index Was Calculated
A survey conducted in April 2024 with 3,000 U.S. participants formed the statistical backbone of this index. Each state’s enthusiasm score was determined by weighing the following activities:
- Attending the Kentucky Derby in person (25%)
- Streaming the event live (10%)
- Hosting or attending a Derby party (15%)
- Consuming Mint Juleps (5%)
- Enjoying classic Southern dishes (5%)
- Dressing in Derby attire (15%)
- Playing horse-themed games (15%)
- Placing bets on the race (10%)
States unable to meet the minimum response threshold (Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Vermont) were not included in the ranking. The average respondent was 39.2 years old, with a diverse sample distribution by gender.
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