A terrific 10th year: the #AlphaDerbyWeekend via the Alphas of Atlanta is another tremendous way to usher in the 1st weekend of May

Since its inaugural date of May 1-2, 2025, the Alphas of Atlanta are elevating the "party with a purpose" adage. Thanks to the #AlphaDerbyWeekend, the event evolves from a 2-day series to a full weekend; with its Kentucky Derby themed lineup and proceeds supporting their community-driven efforts, it is arguably the largest event of its kind outside of what takes place at Churchill Downs (in Louisville, KY).

With 1/3 of its patrons traveling from outside the state of Georgia, it's clearly a "can't miss" event for a bevy of reasons.

On May 1st, a reception is held for sponsors and branding partners via Hideoki, one of weekend's title sponsors. The intimate setting on a twilight spring event provides an ideal atmosphere for networking amongst the companies represented and members of the committee.

Friday (May 2nd) is a date full of activity, starting with the golf tournament at Chapel Hills Golf Club (Douglasville, GA) . With men's and women's teams engaged with some friendly competition on the golf course, the added compliments of networking on the 19th hole and key areas across the golf course provide a good start for the day and weekend. Likewise, an appearance by Mayor Rochelle Robinson (City of Douglasville, GA) adds to the networking and community-building taking place.

The evening (May 2nd) takes on a elevated tone of networking, music, dancing, and a good evening outing at the Delta Flight Museum. Patrons are greeted by the live music style and sounds of the DJ Wright Band as they bring their showmanship and flair to the stage. DJ Tron, an Atlanta favorite, adds to the music experience and setting.

And then the headliner, Cupid (The Line-dance King), adds to the experience. With favorites including "The Cupid Shuffle" and "Flex" as part of his set, fans of the genre are able to enjoy themselves on the dancefloor and more, capping off their Friday evening and gearing up for a sensational Saturday.

The main event returns to the Flight Museum (May 3rd); although the rain limits the indoor/outdoor setting, the support and style from the attendees make the day second to none. The trio of DJ's (DJ Genius, DJ Greg Nyce, and DJ E-Clazz) keep the audience moving, grooving, and having a positive energy and experience.

The A-list of dignitaries includes Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Lucien Metellus (along with additional leadership from the fraternity), Atlanta City Councilman Byron Amos, Newton County Commissioner (District 2) T. Demond Mason, speakers from additional title sponsors (Woodford Reserve, Anheuser Busch, and Audi of Marietta), and even Michelle Johnson (a patron who has purchased a section each year of the event). And proclamations are provided from the City of Atlanta to recognize the first weekend of May as #AlphasOfAtlantaWeekend along with Newton County.

Add the highly competitive hat contest and running of the actual race, and Saturday truly is a special day.

To close out the weekend, Sunday turns into a fun-day for all in attendance of the Sunday brunch. Kitty Camile provides the live music experience and DJ Smoov provides additional sounds on the 1's and 2's. For those who are 21 and older, the bottomless mimosas are an ideal compliment to the food ensemble; likewise, recognition of the entire committee and a reminder for the focus of the event draw the weekend to a positive conclusion.

Again, the Alphas of Atlanta not only host a high-quality event, but one for a high-quality reason. We'll look forward to what they have in place for the upcoming months (including the start of the 2025-26 school year).

And on May 1-3, 2026, be prepared to return to the Winner's Circle.

Notes: All video and photos used in this article are recorded via @asnortonccs; you may visit/subscribe (to) our YouTube channel to watch the 2025 #AlphaDerbyWeekend playlist for additional video and coverage (click HERE for the playlist).