Contact Debbie McClure at dmcclure@rev.net or call (540)-580-2526 to make your reservations.

Photo Courtesy of Rod Dixon

There’s a lot of elements that made last year’s inaugural Derby Day Gala fundraiser such a huge success.  The breathtaking view from Mill Mountain, the elegance of the Rockledge home, the graciousness of our event hosts, the enthusiasm of the Derby Day Gala committee members, the great looking people in their Derby attire, the fine wine, the mint juleps, and even the Kentucky Derby itself.   But certainly one of the big attractions of the event was the food prepared by the chefs and students of the Virginia Western School of Culinary Arts.   Not only was the menu  absolutely delicious, beautiful in presentation and plentiful – but the Culinary Arts students were so enthusiastic and enjoyable – they became a big hit themselves.

Photo Courtesy of Rod Dixon

The menu for this year’s Derby Day Gala, on May 1, 2010, has been tweaked to add even more classic Derby culinary treats.  It will feature action stations with carved turkey hot browns, shrimp & grits,  strip lion with Henry Bains sauce.  Also expect pork lion on sweet potato biscuits, grilled vegetables, Rumaki-scallops wrapped in bacon, Italian sausage dip, Kentucky Burgoo to name just a few.  Of course no Derby Day Gala would be complete without Kentucky Derby pie and other sweet treats!

Invitations have been mailed to last year’s guests.  We’ve had overwhelming response and the buzz has started.  Capacity to the Derby Day Gala is limited, but if you are interested in joining us I bet we can find room – and some food!  The Derby Day Gala is a fund raising event for Festival in the Park and it’s Scholarship for the Arts Program.   Your tax deductible contribution of $100.00 per person guarantees you a great experience and a few keep sakes. Event begins at 4:00pm- 9:30pm. Oh yea, we understand that Derby hat sales at Roanoke Valley retailers is already brisk – so we suggest you get started on your attire ASAP!  See this web site for Derby Hat ideas and tips.

Email Debbie McClure or call (540) 580-2526 for more information.

See photos from the 2009 Derby Day Gala!

Photo Courtesy of Rod Dixon

Photo Courtesy of Rod Dixon

Photo Courtesy of Rod Dixon

Photo Courtesy of Rod Dixon

The “Run for the Roses” Derby Day Gala, on May 1, 2010, is not only a great reason to break out the gala hat or your seersucker suit (or buy a new one) but it is also a benefit for a worthy cause.  Proceeds benefit Festival in the Park and its Scholarship for the Arts program.  Doctors Nancy and Kevin Dye open their beautiful home, Rockledge, to host this

Our Derby winner with the view of downtown Roanoke behind

event each year.  Built in the 1900s, Rockledge enjoys a rich history and sits just below the Mill Mountain Star.  During the Gala, all guests are encouraged to enjoy the grounds and  make themselves at home at Rockledge.  Of course there’s the awe inspiring view, especially at sunset.  Last year’s 1st annual event was a great success and we expect this year’s to be even better.

Winners of the "Best Derby Attire" Award

May 1, 2010 is Kentucky Derby Day, and in Roanoke VA, its also the Derby Day Gala.  Invitations will be mailed to charter attendees from the inaugural year.  Attendance capacity is limited but if you’d like to attend this year there may still availability.  Email Debbie for information and tell her you’d like to join the fun, enjoy the great food, mint juleps and all the festivities.  This promises to be a winning ticket!

See more photos from the 2009 Derby Day Gala