Double the Derby Fun

Iron Fish & Chateau Chantal are off to the races

April 25, 2026

Break out the big hats and the mint juleps—it’s almost Derby Day! In Thompsonville, Iron Fish Distillery will be hosting their ninth annual Hats & Horses Derby Party on Saturday, May 2, from 3-8pm. There is literally a horse race along ​​Dzuibanek Road, and tickets ($130 + fees) include two drinks, appetizers, a pig roast, live music, silent auction, and more. The event is also a fundraiser for the Thompsonville Area Revitalization Project (T.A.R.P.). Learn more at ironfishdistillery.com. Meanwhile, at Chateau Chantal in Traverse City, there’s a Murder at the Derby! This murder mystery dinner runs from 6-9pm…and to quote the winery, “someone won’t make it to the Winner’s Circle.” Costumes are encouraged for the three-course dinner (plus cash bar). See the menu and get tickets ($85) at chateauchantal.com.

Pictured: The race from the 2025 Iron Fish Derby event.