Dust off your fascinators and sharpen your bow tie skills! Our friends at Iron Fish Distillery are back with the most anticipated party of the spring, and we have some exciting news: TARP has been named the fundraising partner for this year’s event!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 2, 2026. The 9th Annual Hats & Horses Kentucky Derby Party at the distillery isn’t just the best party of the year – it’s a powerful way to support the Thompsonville Area Revitalization Project.
A Day at the Farm for a Great Cause
Iron Fish Distillery is bringing the spirit of Churchill Downs to Northern Michigan! While you enjoy the “most exciting two minutes in sports,” you’ll also be helping us revitalize and strengthen our community. To make your support go even further, the Hickey-Kiersey Family Philanthropic Foundation has generously pledged to match all donations raised during the event, up to $10,000.
What To Expect
The day’s festivities center around the main event: a legendary live horse race right down the distillery’s dirt road, followed by a screening of the 152nd Kentucky Derby inside the barn. Between the races, guests can indulge in a full Southern feast featuring a traditional pig roast with all the fixins’ and gourmet pre-dinner hors d’oeuvres. To round out the afternoon, come dressed to impress for the Hat and Bow Tie competitions, browse our silent auction, or try your luck in the 50/50 raffle—all in support of TARP.
Your Ticket Includes:
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Event Admission
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Two Delicious Derby Drinks (Featuring Iron Fish spirits or N/A options)
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Full Southern Pig Roast Dinner
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Access to Yard Games, the live Horse Race, and the Derby Screening
Support TARP – Grab Your Tickets Today!
This event sells out every year, and we would love to see the Thompsonville community out in full force. Grab your tickets, gather your pals, and join us at the farm for a great day of racing and revitalization. A huge thank you to the Iron Fish team for their continued support of Thompsonville!