A historic estate overlooking the Ohio River and the Bluegrass State is the setting for a lavish afternoon leading up to the Run for the Roses. Indiana Landmarks last year revived the Derby Day party at Veraestau, a tradition started in the 1930s by the O’Brien family when they owned the historic estate, which sits high above the river in Aurora, Indiana.

From 4 until 7 p.m. on May 6, Derby Day guests will enjoy Run for the Roses traditions, including mint juleps, Derby hors d’oeuvres and desserts, live music, games, a ladies’ hat contest, prizes, and, of course, a viewing of the two-minute horse race on on multiple screens on the lawn and indoors in the beautiful double parlor.

Derby Day at Veraestau benefits Indiana Landmarks’ preservation work in southeastern Indiana and at the 116-acre estate. Sponsors of the event include UCB Charitable Foundation, Woody’s on the Hill Bar & Grille and Dearborn Country Club, Gambles Furniture, and The Friendship State Bank.

Owned and operated by Indiana Landmarks, Veraestau predated Indiana statehood, with additions to the house and grounds from several periods in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

WHAT: Derby Day at Veraestau, benefiting Indiana Landmarks’ preservation work in southeastern Indiana

WHERE: Veraestau Historic Site, 4696 Veraestau Lane, Aurora

WHEN: Saturday, May 6, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

WHO: Sponsored by Indiana Landmarks

COST: $52 per person ($43 per Indiana Landmarks member). Buy tickets online at derbyday17.eventbrite.com.

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Media contact: Jarrad Holbrook, director of Indiana Landmarks’ Southeast Field Office, 812-926-0983, jholbrook@indianalandmarks.org

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Indiana Landmarks revitalizes communities, reconnects us to our heritage, and saves meaningful places. With nine offices located throughout the state, Indiana Landmarks helps people rescue endangered landmarks and restore historic neighborhoods and downtowns. People who join Indiana Landmarks receive its bimonthly magazine, Indiana Preservation. Learn more.