Enjoy the largest and best Kentucky Derby Party in the state of West Virginia! Imagine being in the company of guests and friends donning the most spectacular derby hat, a chance to win door prizes galore, live music, sipping the perfect Mint Julep at the West Virginia State Fairgrounds, and watching the Official Kentucky Derby on a big screen TVs!

Over twenty-five years ago, Gateway Industries was looking for a fundraising event to help support its building fund. The fundraiser was the brainchild of Mr. Robert W. McCormick, to be held in conjunction with the events at Churchill Downs Kentucky Derby in Lexington, Kentucky.

As legend would have it, the beginnings of this fundraiser were attended by race enthusiasts sitting on bales of hay and enjoying the festivities in the venue under the grandstand. The event was such a success, it was decided Derby Day would become the official annual fundraiser for Gateway.

As legend would have it, the beginnings of the Derby Day fundraiser were attended by race enthusiasts sitting on bales of hay and enjoying the festivities in the venue under the WV State Fair Grandstand.

This year marks the 26th year, steadily growing in numbers of community sponsorships and attendees. It has also earned the reputation of being one of the best events in the tri-county! This event is always held on the 1st Saturday in May — this year May 7th is The Big Day. The event hours are 3:00pm -8:00pm

Catering will be provided by Fruits of Labor. In the true fashion of The Kentucky Derby, you can treat yourself to a wonderful authentic Mint Julep served in a commemorative glass. Wine and ice-cold beers on tap will also be served as well as non-alcoholic options.

Attire is fancy to casual and should the spirit grab you, come decked out in your finest Derby Day Hat for a chance to win a fantastic prize during “The Most Spectacular Hat Contest”.

Throughout the night, stroll around the magnificent Silent Auction consisting of around 100 items while waiting for the race to begin and pick your favorite horse. Also, during the evening you can purchase fifty-fifty tickets and split a lucrative pot with Gateway. There are 2 separate drawings, doubling your chance to win.

There are 2 separate drawings, doubling your chance to win! + a live auction for roses!

The entire evening you can enjoy the music of Richard Hefner and the Black Mountain Bluegrass Boys. The evening ends with the drawing for the grand prize, which this year is a chance to win $500 in various gift cards! + there will be a live auction for roses, which you can bid on for that special someone in your life. Come ready to battle it out for the beautiful roses, the competition is fierce but it’s all in good fun.

Once you have attended Derby Day, don’t be surprised to find yourself keeping this on your calendar every year. Over 500 attendees from the tri-county area and surrounding states can’t be wrong.

Come on out, bring your friends or family and make some great memories that will last a lifetime. Cost to attend is $35 per person in advance and $45 at the door. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Gateway located at 787 Edgar Ave in Ronceverte or at the door of the Cecil Underwood Youth Building at The West Virginia State Fair on the day of the event. For more information, please call at 304-645-3165.