Elizabethan Gardens Hosting Kentucky Derby Event
The Outer Banks models one of the finest of southern traditions with their Kentucky Derby Party, an annual fundraising event to benefit three local nonprofits. While the actual race is hundreds of miles away, the style and charming glamour is on scene at The Elizabethan Gardens for a fantastically fun experience.
According to the garden’s Executive Director Carl Curnutte III, a native from the Bluegrass state, this is no ordinary fundraiser. “We wanted to combine efforts to create a different kind of fundraising event that would benefit everyone. And last year, our first year, was a rousing success.”
The Kentucky Derby Party – sponsored by Outer Banks Blue Realty – raises funds for three unique not-for-profit organizations on the Outer Banks: the Dare Education Foundation, the Beach Food Pantry and The Elizabethan Gardens.
The event will take place on May 5 from 3:30 to 8pm on the Great Lawn of The Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo. Guest will enjoy a sumptuous sit-down southern buffet set beneath the live oaks, with appetizers and drinks that include the Derby classic “Mint Julep.”
Additionally, live music will set the tone for guests to mingle and enjoy the stylish spring gathering.
Attendees can also place bets on a “stylish” silent auction. In homage to the Derby, hats styled by local businesses are decorated and paired with auction prizes for the highest bidder.
And for those mad hatters – people who are in love with hat fashions, there is a Derby hat contest with prizes.
Of course, there’s the race to consider as well. The 144th running of the Kentucky Derby will be streamed live on several screens on the lawn. “Horse Bucks” can be purchased so guests can test their odds for a chance to win prizes if their horse places in the race.
“We had a great event last year,” says Elisabeth Silverthorne, executive director of Dare Education Foundation. “I think this year is going to double the fun. And I enjoy being a part of this event as I feel it presents our organizations to the wider community in a way that builds connections and increases awareness.”
Elisabeth and Carl both agree that this event is a great example of how our community works together to help one another.
Tickets to the second annual Kentucky Derby Party can be purchased online at elizabethangardens.org. tickets are $125 per person, and tables of eight can be purchased for $1,000. For more information, or if you would like to donate toward the silent auction and/or any of the other festivities, please contact The Elizabethan Gardens at (252) 473-3234.
Pictured here are: First Row: Mandel Hamel; Susan Smith, Board member Beach Food Pantry; Time Cafferty, President of Outer Banks Blue (Event Sponsor) and Chairman of the Dare Education Foundation; Cindy Thornsvard, Event Chair; Nora Wilkinson, Outer Banks Blue; Elisabeth Silverstone, Executive Director of the Dare Education Foundation.
Second Row: Lynda Wood; Brandon Edwards; Richard Bruce, Chairman of the Beach Food Pantry; Gail Reynolds, Vice Chair of the Board of Governors The Elizabethan Gardens; and Carl Curnutte, Executive Director The Elizabethan Gardens.
For more Outer Banks entertainment news, follow @obxe.
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