Rockin’ Derby Eve Benefit Party Returns May 1st to Support Hospice Care Plus

Hospice Care Plus invites the community to celebrate Derby weekend while supporting a meaningful cause at its annual Rockin’ Derby Eve Benefit Party. This year’s event will take place Friday, May 1, 2026, from 6:00–11:00 p.m. at Richardson Hall at the Madison County Fairgrounds.  

    “This event has been bringing our community together for more than two decades,” said Stefanie Manes, Director of Community Engagement for Hospice Care Plus. “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 to patients and families across our region.” 

      Guests attending Rockin’ Derby Eve can expect an unforgettable evening filled with great food, music, and Derby-inspired fun. The event will feature hors d’oeuvres, a four-course dinner, complimentary wine and beer, and the complimentary Kentucky Oaks Lily cocktail, dancing, auctions, raffles, games, professional photography, photo booth and more! 

       Live music is one of the highlights of the Rockin’ Derby Eve celebration. After an unforgettable debut performance last year, the band Grouper Soup to the stage this year. Blending classic rock favorites with hits spanning the past four decades, Grouper Soup is a must-see act and the perfect soundtrack for an unforgettable Derby Eve celebration. 

     For those wondering what to wear to this year’s event, Manes said the theme says it all. “Rockin’ Derby Eve is a blend of Derby elegance and rock-and-roll fun,” she said. Guests are invited to dress in their Derby best or come in their favorite concert-going attire. The event will also feature the Derby Hat Contest with prizes for the top three winners.  “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.” 

       General Admission is $125 per person, with tables of eight available for $950. The event is open to guests aged 21 and older. General Admission seating is first come, first served, while reserved tables ensure a dedicated table for your entire group of eight. Reservations are open Friday, March 27 through Friday, April 24, 2026. 

      “Every dollar raised at the event supports the compassionate care Hospice Care Plus provides to patients and families throughout our region,” said Manes. “The support shown through Rockin’ Derby Eve truly makes our work possible and allows us to continue caring for families across the communities we serve.”  Community members are encouraged to reserve their seats early and join Hospice Care Plus for an evening of music, celebration, and support for a meaningful cause.  To reserve tickets or learn more, visit hospicecareplus.org or call 859-986-1500.