New Kentucky Derby Eve Event Set for May 1
Image:
Description:
Derby Eve Lexington, a new fundraiser the night before the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I), will be held for the first time May 1 at the polo barn at Saxony Farm in Lexington.
In addition to photo opportunities at a red carpet entrance and dancing, entertainment will include a bourbon and cigar bar, food-tasting stations, palm and psychic readings, and art displays. There will be a VIP ticket option, offering fare from a local chef and exclusive entrance to VIP areas.
Proceeds from the event will benefit five charities: Woodford Humane Society, the Calipari Foundation, Race for Education, Horse Aid Live, and Horses and Hope.
Derby Eve Lexington is presented by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Four Roses Bourbon, Old 502 Winery, Clark Beverage Group, Blue Grass Tours, Traditional Bank, Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs, and Lemon Fury.
"We are beyond thrilled to be able to resurrect a large, lavish Kentucky Derby Party in Lexington in the spirit of the infamous Anita Madden parties," Donna Sturgeon, Derby Eve Lexington founder, said in a release. "We'd been discussing ways to breathe new energy into several Central Kentucky fundraisers when we realized these events had lost a key element—fun, and the fun tends to stop at fundraising events by live and silent auctions which can lead guests to feel like their pockets are constantly dipped into and there's an exodus toward the doors after dinner.
"So we decided to bring Kentucky Derby excitement back to Lexington with one of the most consistently sought-after tickets, the Kentucky Derby party and after the bills are paid, donations will be made to five excellent and very deserving charities. Folks should no longer feel the need to travel to Louisville to become a part of the Kentucky Derby."
Tickets are $200 each, with VIP tickets available for $350 each. VIP tables for eight are $2,500.
All tickets include food, dancing, beverages, spirits, wine, and complimentary shuttle services from centralized locations. Tickets can be purchased online by credit card or check at www.DerbyEveLex.horse.
"Lexington has been lacking a true Kentucky Derby party," said Bryan Pettigrew, senior vice president of marketing for the Breeders' Cup and a Derby Eve Lexington organizer. "I think not only locals will attend, but out-of-towners who have come in for the (Longines Kentucky) Oaks (gr. I) and Derby who stay in Lexington will now have something to do on Oaks night.
"It's going to be a great event while giving back to the community. The community support has been overwhelming so far, and we anticipate that to continue."
Organizers said a celebrity guest list and musical entertainment announcement will be made on or before April 14.
More information, including volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, is available at www.DerbyEveLex.horse or by contacting Donna Sturgeon at donna@derbyevelex.horse.