From fashion moments and photo-worthy tributes to rose giveaways and of course, cocktails – here are all the details you need to know about Run For The Roses!
Grand Central Station is set to look a little different on Friday May 1 – it’s transforming into New York City’s very own slice of the Kentucky Derby! It wouldn’t be the Kentucky Derby without bourbon and Woodford Reserve is making sure that same rule applies in NYC. This effortlessly charming experience comes complete with free cocktails and flowers – but it’s a one-day only affair, so here is everything you need to know. Don’t forget to sign up – this is a free event, but registrations are required!
What is happening at Run for the Roses?
This is a full Derby experience and there is plenty going on! Firstly, the Woodford Reserve team is going to be handing out free red roses – there are 4,000 up for grabs, so make sure you get there early to get one. There are also going to be complimentary cocktail tastings, with a few non-alcoholic options on offer too. That’s not all though – this is set to be a fully immersive experience, including iconic Derby fashion moments and plenty of photo-worthy spots. Don’t miss out on seeing the life-size sculpture of the 1925 Derby winner, Flying Ebony! There will also be a Vendor Stable, where local makers will be selling all kinds of Derby-ready accessories, including a hat maker and charm bar. Make sure you head over to the Graybar Passage as well, where every Woodford Reserve purchase between 12pm-7pm will include complimentary engraving!
Where and when is Run for the Roses taking place?
The event is set to unfold at Vanderbilt Hall in Grand Central Station for one day only on Friday May 1! It all kicks off at 11am and will run through to 7pm – but try to get there early as this is set to be an in-demand event! It’s totally free to attend but registration is required. If you can’t make it on May 1, you can still get your Woodford Reserve bottle engraved on May 2 – the engraver will be on-site both days to provide personalized engraving to be included for free with every Woodford Reserve purchase. You can find the engraving station from 12pm-7pm on May 1 and 2nd in the Graybar Passage.
Please Drink Responsibly. Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 45.2% Alc. by Vol. The Woodford Reserve Distillery, Versailles, KY. Woodford Reserve is a registered trademark. ©2026 Brown-Forman Distillery, Inc. All rights reserved.
