“KenDucky” Derby is Back
“KenDucky” Derby is Back
Fancy Hats and Rubber Ducks Return to the Ellicottville Distillery, May 4th
What is the event that horse lovers around the U.S. are gearing up for? If you said the Kentucky Derby, you’d be spot on… (now in its 150th year!) A longstanding American Grade 1 stakes race that is held in Louisville, Kentucky at Churchill Downs every May, the Kentucky Derby brings men and women sporting their Derby finery and placing bets on which thoroughbred will come out ahead at the end of the 1 + 1/4 miles.
What if I told you that you could not only watch the Derby on screen in Ellicottville, but that there is an equally fun event to be a part of locally as well?
If you come out to the Ellicottville Distillery, you can join in all the fun at their “KenDucky” Derby event, from 12:00-6:00pm on Saturday, May 4th. Not only will you be able to view the Derby as it happens live from the Distillery’s lovely tasting room, but staff are hosting their own ducky races in our local creek. With live music, drinks and snacks, this is a party you don’t want to miss!
WHOSE GREAT IDEA WAS THIS?
Owners Bryan and Renee Scharf have always strived to bring great activities to their slice of Ellicottville, and like all great ideas, this one was created during a random late night conversation. Renee was bemused, "One night we were just sitting around considering world problems and the idea of a race down the creek somehow came up. Last year was the first year we did it and it turned out to be an event much bigger than we ever thought. It was so much fun and our turnout was HUGE, so we decided this was going to be a yearly event!”
Visitors are encouraged (but it’s in no way mandatory) to wear their Derby best for the day - the hats of course, being the biggest draw, with their flamboyant regalia and over-the-top design to complement the more formal dress suits or cocktail dresses. (This year’s trends according to kentuckyderby.com will see a lot of glacial blue, roses and more “preppy” styles.) But at Ellicottville Distillery, it’s all about just having a good time, so you can come as you like. Renee did say that last year, “Everyone dressed up and wore big derby hats… it was such a great time!”
THE RACE IS ON: GO DUCK GO!
As for the Ducky Derby and how it works? Renee explained that they’ve been reserving spots for the races (of which there are as many as people want; last year there were seven) on their Facebook and on the day, all of the “horse ducks” are numbered and will be poured into the creek in the designated course area. There is a line at the end and whichever crosses the finish line first is the winner. The person who’s duck takes the lead doesn’t have to be present to win, so if you can’t make it out and your duck clears the line, you’re still a winner!
Of course you can’t forget the live entertainment. Local favorites Porcelain Train will be playing live from 3:00-6:00pm. Porcelain Train is an acoustic Americana duo performing original music from singer/songwriter Tamala Fonda on acoustic guitar and vocals, and her husband Ralph Fonda on percussion and vocals. They play a unique blend of rhythm and harmony combined with thoughtful lyrics. “Porcelain Train are super great people; we really enjoy having them!”
UP NEXT AT ELLICOTTVILLE DISTILLERY
The Ellicottville Distillery’s event season is just getting started. After the Ducky Derby you can look forward to their annual “Welcome to Summer” bonfire on May 25th starting at 12:00pm. This is one of the best ways to kick off the season, with a roaring fire and a party that will feature live music from long-time favorites Kody & Herren from 5:00-8:00pm. More details on this and other upcoming events can be found on the Distillery’s Facebook page or at ellicottvilledistillery.com.
If you decide to come out for the Derby, they’ll be ready to entertain you! As Renee stated, “We are just really looking forward to nicer weather and being able to get outside and do fun things! See you on May 4th!”