NEW ORLEANS – Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots and Fair Grounds OTB and Casinos on behalf of Churchill Downs have joined the growing group of businesses supporting Derby on Fulton, a Kentucky Derby-themed free festival to benefit Team Gleason, this Saturday, May 2, 2015.
The event is being hosted by neighboring Fulton Street businesses, The Apres Lounge and Fulton Alley.
Starting at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, Fulton Street in New Orleans' CBD will come alive with the sounds of Pocket Aces Jazz Band as visitors enjoy the Kentucky Derby from 700 miles away.
Raffles, betting pools, food and beverage sales will benefit Team Gleason.
The Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots will join the party, adding its own unique prizes to Saturday's offerings including a Starlight Racing Package, a Clubhouse Table with a $250 food and beverage tab, a Grandstand Box at the Race Course and 2 autographed official Kentucky Derby™ winner photos.
"We're delighted to have the Fair Grounds come on board for this inaugural event," said Gerald Duhon of Team Gleason. "As with any proper New Orleans festival, the more the merrier! There has been tremendous community support for Derby on Fulton, and we're anticipating a great crowd and a great time."
"This is a natural for us," said Tim Bryant, president of Churchill's Louisiana Properties for New Orleans Fairgrounds and Slots. "The Kentucky Derby is iconic, Fulton Street is becoming a cultural hotbed, and Team Gleason is a cause anyone and everyone can support."
Other organizations and businesses supporting Derby on Fulton include PJ's Coffee and Tea, Ernst Café, Walk-Ons, WOW Wingery, Phil's Grill and Fleur de Paris among many others.
"Interest in this event has been incredible," said Ray Sutherlin, vice president of James Hartman & Associates, which is managing promotions for Derby on Fulton. "We've been involved in a lot of events and campaigns, and rarely is there this much buzz among both the citizens and the business community. Even with so many activities in the city right now, in full swing, people are excited about and coming to see the first Derby on Fulton."