Atlanta’s Alpha Derby Weekend returned for its 11th edition from April 30 to May 3, 2026,
bringing a Kentucky Derby–inspired celebration that blended Southern elegance with
philanthropy. What began as a sponsor‑only prelude on Thursday, blossomed into a series
of public events that raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local education
foundations while delivering unforgettable entertainment and style.
The festivities teed off with a Friday morning golf tournament at Chapel Hills Golf Course in
Douglasville. Foursomes enjoyed breakfast, a full 18‑hole round on a championship course
and contests for putting, closest to the pin, longest drive and even a hole‑in‑one; the day
concluded with a “19th Hole” lunch and awards ceremony for a memorable outing that
fused competition and charity. Later that evening, the crowd migrated to Guardian Works
for the kickoff social and concert. The high‑energy event invited guests to mix, mingle and
dance to nostalgic hits and surprise performances, with platinum recording artist Jon B
headlining the show.
Jon B captivates the crowd at the Alpha Derby kickoff concert.
Saturday’s Alpha Derby Day watch party transformed Guardian Works into a vibrant
indoor/outdoor festival. Attendees donned elaborate hats and tailored suits to enjoy live DJ
sets, an outdoor cigar lounge, pop‑up musical performances, interactive exhibits
celebrating Atlanta’s rich history and a premium selection of food, drinks and curated
vendors. City dignitaries including Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Councilman
Byron Amos appeared on stage to praise the fraternity’s commitment to community service;
Amos even presented a proclamation recognizing April 30–May 3 as Alpha Derby Weekend
in Atlanta. At the watch party, Mayor Dickens applauded the fraternity for turning style into
service, telling the crowd, “You have raised $300,000 so far, and that means a lot for the
community.”
On stage, fraternity members and sponsors—decked out in dapper plaid suits and colorful
accessories—hosted contests and raffles to keep the energy high. The Derby’s signature
aesthetic offered the perfect backdrop for photos and socializing. The highlight of the
afternoon was the Best Hat Competition, where contestants showcased creative millinery
for prizes such as gift cards and even a suite cabin aboard the Ubersoca Cruise. Throughout
the weekend, visitors from across the country—nearly a third of them from outside
Georgia—embraced the event’s theme of “party with a purpose.”
Guests strike a pose at a reception adorned with Alphas of Atlanta signage.
Elegant Derby hats and vibrant spring fashions were everywhere at the watch party.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens addresses the watch party as onlookers in festive attire soak in
the moment.
Dapper gentlemen preside over the Best Hat contest with flair.
The four‑day celebration culminated on Sunday with the Unity Brunch at the Grand Hyatt
Buckhead. The brunch offered a plated breakfast buffet, bottomless mimosas, live music and
an interactive program that explained the weekend’s purpose. Proceeds from the 2026
Alpha Derby Weekend support the Alphas of Atlanta’s grant program, which this year will
benefit Eagles Landing Christian Academy, The Diamond Girls Program, Girls Who Brunch
Tour, Scholarship Education Outreach, 3D Girls Inc and Every Girl Shines. Each organization
focuses on education, mentoring, health and wellness or other community‑centered
initiatives, reinforcing the idea that good times can—and should—give back.
A fan enjoys a meet‑and‑greet moment with Jon B after the show.
From the fairway to the dance floor, the 2026 Alpha Derby Weekend proved once again that
style and service make the perfect pair. By blending entertainment with philanthropy and
infusing every event with Southern charm, the Alphas of Atlanta continue to write a story of
community uplift that’s as timeless as the Derby itself.
Photography By: EmoryRose Photography and Creative Community Solutions
Author Spotlight
Misty Reign is an attorney of 18 years with practice areas spanning White Collar Criminal Investigations to Real Estate Law. A proud legal eagle, graduating at the top of her class from North Carolina Central University Law School, she is the 2024 recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in the legal profession. Misty has also been extensively involved in media as a former internet radio show host and legal analyst for several television networks, regularly appearing on true crime tv shows such as Fatal Attraction, Snapped & Celebrity Crime Files. SwagHer Magazine is proud to welcome Misty Reign aboard as a Media Correspondent to provide engaging & entertaining coverage.
