BIRMINGHAM – The Shelby Humane society is encouraging locals to mark their calendars for the inaugural Birmingham Derby Party from 3 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 5 at Windwood Equestrian.

According to Shelby Humane Society Executive Director David Arias, the Birmingham Derby Party is inspired by a similar event held in Denver and will be one of many parties throughout the United States connected to the Kentucky Derby.

“This is the first type of event like this. We did a lot of research to determine what type of event would be fun in a city like Birmingham that has never been done before,” Arias said.

He also said the Birmingham Derby Party will serve as a way to complement the Shelby Humane Society’s Bark and Wine event, which is held each fall.

“It kind of bookends our year, and we wanted to do something different,” Arias said. “This seemed like a perfect fit.”

Arias said the event was designed primarily for the young, professional demographic of Birmingham.

“That’s reflected in the food we’re offering, the music, the whole concept,” Arias said.

Drinks and food will be provided by local restaurants, and the Shelby Humane Society currently asking for suggestions on details about the menu. Music will be provided by the Colony House.

Guests will also be able to visit with the horses that live at Windwood before the Kentucky Derby race is televised.

“The location is a key component,” Arias said. “Windwood is absolutely beautiful.”

The event will also feature a Best Hat competition for women and a Best Dressed contest for men. Arias said the Shelby Humane Society is currently working to determine prizes.

A portion of the proceeds raised by the Birmingham Derby Party will go to help the Shelby Humane Society care for the 5,000 animals that they take in each year.

Arias said the Shelby Humane Society is in the process of developing sponsorship, and thanked the event’s current sponsors.

Guests must be over the age of 21 to attend. Tickets are limited to 500 guests, cost $65 and will be available for purchase online at Birminghamderby.org or on the Shelby Humane Society Facebook page. Arias said tickets are expected to sell out quickly.

“Our event will be one of the largest derby parties in the country, outside of Louisville. It has all the elements of Southern-ness. There’s pageantry and a chance to get dressed up,” Arias said.