Rockin’ Derby Eve Returns for a Night of Music, Celebration, and Compassion

Reservations are now open for the Rockin’ Derby Eve Benefit for Hospice Care Plus! This adult only event is the longest running derby eve tradition in Madison County, and has become a tradition for many in the community. Rockin’ Derby Eve will take place on Friday, May 1, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Richardson Hall on the Madison County Fairgrounds, bringing together friends, supporters, and community members in support of the care we provide to patients and families across our region.

“This event has been bringing our community together for more than two decades,” said Stefanie Manes, Director of Community Engagement. “What started as a fundraiser to help build our Compassionate Care Center has grown into a tradition people look forward to each year, and we’re grateful that it continues to support the care we provide.”

An Unforgettable Derby Eve Experience

Guests attending Rockin’ Derby Eve can expect an evening filled with great food, music, and Derby inspired fun. The night includes heavy hor d’oeuvres, a four course dinner, complimentary wine and beer and the event’s signature drink, the Kentucky Oaks Lily cocktail. The celebration also features dancing, auctions, raffles and games, professional photography, and a photo booth, creating a lively and memorable experience from start to finish.

Live Music and Entertainment

Live music remains one of the highlights of the evening. After an unforgettable debut performance last year, the band “Grouper Soup” returns to the stage. Known for blending classic rock favorites with hits spanning the past four decades, the band brings energy and excitement that will keep guests on their feel all night long.

What Should Guests Wear?

Rockin’ Derby Eve is where Derby elegance meets rock and roll fun! Guests are invited to come dressed in their Derby best or their favorite rock concert inspired outfit.

The evening will also feature a “Derby Hat Contest”, with prizes awarded to the top three winners. Not sure what kind of hat to wear? Anything goes. From classic fascinators and elegant wide brim hats to bold, whimsical, and over the top creations, guest are encouraged to have fun and get creative.

“Guests come in hats that range from classic and elegant to whimsical and silly,” Manes said. “It’s one of the favorite moments of the evening.”

Community Support Makes Rockin’ Derby Eve Possbile

We are incredibly grateful to all of our sponsors for helping make Rockin’ Derby Eve possible.

Platinum Sponsors: Citizens National Bank, GFWC Woman’s Club of Berea, Madison County Fair Board, M&D’s Catering, The Richmond Register

Gold Sponsors: Astemo, Whitaker Bank

Silver Sponsors: Baptist Health Richmond, Berea Citizen, Berea Walmart, CG Bank, Community Trust Bank, Cumberland Valley National Bank, Forcht Bank, Jimmy Dale & Marilyn Williams, Kentucky Printing, Mercy Health Marcum & Wallace Hospital, Richmond Walmart,

Bronze Sponsors: ABR Auto Recyclers, AE Electric Solution, DJ Todd Chaney, Meade Tractor, Summit Architects + Engineers

Friend Sponsors: 1st Trust Bank, Central Bank & Trust, Combs, Parsons & Collins Funeral Home, Craig Loftis State Farm Insurance, Jones Heating and Air, Kaylor’s Marine Service, Inc., Krystin Arnold for Commissioner, Masters & Sons Electric, Morrin Law Office, Senior Renewal Center at St. Joseph Berea, Stone Behavioral Health, Stone & Son Home Improvement, Today’s Family Dental, Tony Terry for Madison County Sheriff, Union City Ruritan Club

How to Reserve Your Seats

General admission tickets are $125 per person, with tables of eight available for $950. The event is open to guests ages 21 and older. General admission seating is first come, first served, while reserved tables provide a dedicated space for groups.

Reservations are now open through Friday, April 24, 2026. You may also give us a call at 859-986-1500 to reserve your seats.

“Every dollar raised at the event supports the compassionate care we provide to patients and families throughout our region,” said Manes. “The support shown through Rockin’ Derby Eve truly makes our work possible.”

On Facebook? Make sure to check out the event page on Facebook for announcements and updates about the event.

Hospice Care Plus was founded as a non-profit organization to support the quality of life of its communities through hospice, palliative, and bereavement care programs. The organization serves Estill, Jackson, Lee, Madison, Owsley, and Rockcastle counties and owns and operates the Compassionate Care Center in Richmond. Relying on contributions from individuals and groups, all care is provided regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Make a gift, explore career and volunteer opportunities, or call 859-986-1500 to learn more.