By: Valerie Chinn
April 20, 2026
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — One of Kentucky Derby week’s most star-studded celebrations is set to return with a global flair and a packed lineup of music, celebrities and charitable impact.
The 13th annual Unbridled Eve Derby Gala, an official Kentucky Derby event, will take place May 1 at the Galt House Hotel, bringing together entertainers, athletes and high-profile guests from across the country.
Organizers said this year’s gala promises its signature mix of “grace, glamour, charm, hospitality and fun,” while continuing to spotlight Kentucky culture on an international stage.
The evening will feature a wide-ranging group of performers, including Richie Sambora, Phillip Phillips and the legendary hip-hop group Sugarhill Gang.
Country fans can expect a performance from Lorrie Morgan, while rock and pop acts like John Elefante and Johnny Edwards will also take the stage.
A highlight of the night will be the “All-Star Jam,” where multiple performers collaborate on fan-favorite songs in a high-energy set.
The gala will also draw a long list of celebrity attendees, including actor Anthony Ramos, actress Gina Torres and Melissa Joan Hart.
Other notable guests include bestselling author Nora Roberts, former NBA All-Star Zach Randolph and Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan.
Kentucky ties will also be well represented, with Louisville head football coach Jeff Brohm and local chef Dallas McGarity among those expected to attend.
Organizers says 1,000 people are expected to attend the big event.
Supporting a charitable mission
Proceeds from the gala benefit the Unbridled Charitable Foundation, which supports a range of causes. The primary beneficiary for 2026 is Blessings in a Backpack, a nonprofit that provides weekend meals for children facing food insecurity.
“For a nonprofit, being on a national stage is incredible and to share our mission with that many people,” said Kim Holsclaw, managing director for the Louisville chapter of Blessings in a Backpack. “We’re just so appreciative. Here locally, we feed about 5600 kids in 43 different schools in Jefferson County.”
Holsclaw said the foods given are kid friendly and ready to eat, even without appliances.
Organizers said the event’s mission remains central to its success and the party has raised over $5 million for more than 45 charities.
“For this one night, we bring people from around the world to our old Kentucky home, while helping those in our community who need it most,” co-founders Tammy York-Day and York said in a statement.
“The fact that a group of normal people can band together to put something on like this to make a difference is why we do it,” York said.
Guests will have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction and raffles featuring luxury items and experiences, including a custom diamond ring and a VIP suite experience for the 2027 Thunder Over Louisville festivities.
Additional auction items include travel packages, sports experiences and exclusive memorabilia.Read the article HERE: https://www.wdrb.com/derby_events/unbridled-eve-derby-gala-returns-with-star-studded-lineup-ahead-of-kentucky-derby/article_23a2c838-38b3-4a56-bbe3-8a8e4e3665d8.html