DIY Whimsical Derby Hat Drink Stirrers

The Derby is coming! The Kentucky Derby is just a few weeks away, and it’s one of my absolute favorite reasons to sip on some mint juleps. Not that I really need a reason to sip on delicious mint juleps, ha! Watching the races though? Such a fun reason to grab your friends and throw a party. I’ll be sharing lots of Derby-inspired party ideas this month, starting with these DIY Derby Hat Drink Stirrers! The credit goes to my creative Mom on these cute and whimsical stirrers! She was inspired by the unique and over-the-top hats worn at the Derby. So why not make mini versions and stir up those mint juleps with them?

So gather your girlfriends and get crafty! Here is how to make these cute and whimsical DIY Derby Hat Drink Stirrers!

• Wrapping Paper in fun stripes, floral prints, polka dots, etc.
• Paper Straws (or skewers)
• Ribbon
• Paper Flowers
• Feathers

Cut circles out of wrapping paper and hot glue your favorite crafty elements to the circle! You can look up Derby hats for inspiration! Then use hot glue to adhere your hat to a paper straw or skewer to create a drink stirrer. Then pick your favorite and enjoy sipping your mint julep!

Here’s a delicious recipe for a Raspberry Mint Julep (pictured above) for a fun twist on the classic!

Raspberry Mint Julep

1 sprig of mint
1/4 cup raspberries
1 tablespoon sugar
2 ounces bourbon
1/2 cup water
crushed ice

Muddle mint and raspberries in bottom of glass. Fill glass with crushed ice. Dissolve sugar with water and top with bourbon. Stir until dissolved and combined with your Derby Hat Drink Stirrer!