A high-fashion derby day party is returning to Jacksonville later this month after being rescheduled because of the weather.
“Hats, Heels and Horses,” sponsored by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Tau Omega Omega Chapter, will feature new additions this year, including live entertainment. “We will have live entertainment this year. That’s new for us. We’re going to have a full band,” said Dionne Brown Williams, president of the chapter.
Williams said attendees can also expect more performances and interactive experiences with the horses. “We have soloists. We have horses with surprises this year. You can ride the horses. You can take pictures with the horses,” she said. She also highlighted the menu, saying, “The food is going to be – just fantastic.”
Organizers said proceeds from the event will help the sorority continue its community programs, including its annual prom dress giveaway.
“So, the proceeds from our event – we call it party with a purpose. ‘Cause everything goes back into the community. We have a school that we support for snacks that they may need for the children. We have seniors that we support,” said Shauna Mitchell, a co-chairman for Hats, Heels & Horses.
The Summer Derby Day Party is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 29. It starts at 2 p.m. at Willis Farm and Venue on Waters Road in Jacksonville. Tickets are $85 per person.