Carli Clesmere 
Big hats and race day energy are almost here. The 2026 Kentucky Derby is set for Saturday, May 2nd — and while the race takes place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, plenty of local spots in Hoboken and Jersey City are tuning in. From lively bars to neighborhood favorites, there are lots of places to watch the race close to home. Keep reading for where to watch the Kentucky Derby in Hoboken and Jersey City this year.
Places to Watch the Kentucky Derby
Hoboken
Black Bear Bar + Grill | 205 Washington Street
This sports bar, featuring dozens of TVs for fans of all kinds of sports, will show The Kentucky Derby this year. Drink and food specials are to be expected, though specific details have yet to be posted. For future announcements, see here.
Read More: A Guide to Sports Bars in Hoboken, New Jersey
Farside Tavern | 531 Washington Street
Farside Tavern, a local staple since 1997, will show this year’s Kentucky Derby. The spot’s à la carte menu is to be expected.
The Madison Bar + Grill | 1316 Washington Street
The roadhouse-style restaurant will show the Kentucky Derby on May 2nd. While the details have yet to be announced, guests can expect food and drink specials. Stay updated here.
Louise + Jerry’s | 329 Washington Street
While there isn’t a formalized Kentucky Derby event happening at Louise + Jerry’s, the spot welcomes guests to come in and request that the Kentucky Derby be shown.
Metropolis | 96 River Street
Metropolis is a go-to Hoboken spot with plenty of TVs, making it an easy choice for catching the Kentucky Derby. The bar plans to show the race, and with a solid menu of bites to pair with drinks, it’s a reliable option for posting up and watching all the action.
Mulligan’s Pub | 159 1st Street
Mulligan’s Pub is a casual Hoboken staple located at 159 1st Street, known for its laid-back vibe, classic bar fare, and solid drink lineup. It’s a go-to spot for catching a game, meeting up with friends, and will be showing the derby with full volume.
The Shepherd + The Knucklehead | 1313 Willow Avenue
The Shepherd + The Knucklehead has TVs all around the bar so sports fans can soak up every moment of competition. Since opening in 2016, the bar has been the go-to spot for watching events + games.
Jersey City
Ed + Mary’s | 174 Coles Street
At this neighborhood bar, Jersey City residents can watch the Kentucky Derby while enjoying classic pub grub like chips + salsa, wings, and Ed + Mary’s signature “sandos.”
Healy’s Tavern | 374 Newark Avenue
Healy’s Tavern, a go-to for fresh brews and drinks, will show the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 2nd. Attendees can enjoy food options like housemade wings and nachos with beef chili and drinks like margaritas, beers, and wines.
O’Hara’s Bar + Grill | 172 1st Street
O’Hara’s Bar + Grill will show The Kentucky Derby on May 2nd. That day, the bar will also have happy hour until 7PM, featuring discounts on cocktails and light bites like nachos, mozzarella sticks, spinach artichoke dip, and more.
New Park Tavern | 575 West Side Avenue
Kentucky Derby enthusiasts can watch the game at New Park Tavern this year. The bar will serve its regular menu that day.
White Star Bar | 230 Brunswick Street + 179 Warren Street
Each year, the White Star Bar shows the Kentucky Derby as a yearly tradition. At both locations, locals can also enjoy burgers, fries, and craft cocktails.
Honorable Mention
The Highwood | 500 Port Imperial, Weehakwen
The Highwood in Weehawken is worth a shout for Derby Day thanks to its wall-to-wall screens, making it easy to catch every moment of the race. The spot pairs great drinks with a lively atmosphere, and the stellar waterfront views don’t hurt either — making it a solid pick for watching the Kentucky Derby just outside Hoboken.
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