Louisville’s most glam week

Shari Baughman | May 11, 2011

Derby week has come and gone, leaving many of us with fun memories, some great pics and in my case, a slight case of well-earned exhaustion. Whether working or playing, most Louisvillians will concede that the week preceding the first Saturday in May is one of the most glamorous and demanding of the year.

Oaks Eve

Derby Thursday, or Oak’s Eve, is big with Louisvillians, both at the track and on the party scene. Lexus of Louisville, located on Blankenbaker Parkway, held a special reception honoring multi-winning jockey, Kent Desormeaux. Kent, who began his racing career at age 16, was recently inducted into the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame.

Larry Zielke threw his annual Oak’s Eve Bash at his beautiful Hurstbourne home. The event was as lovely as ever, with delicious eats from Lily’s under a fabulous white tent. Guest could mingle and chat near the gorgeous pool or take to the checkered dance floor.

Derby Poker

Oak’s Eve continued with the annual Derby Poker Championship at The Palace Theatre, where celebrities mingled with local poker enthusiasts, all to benefit the Blessings in a Backpack foundation.

Oaks and Smokes

Oaks and Smokes, held at The Ice House on Main, was a smash hit for its third year on Oak’s Eve. The casual affair benefits Kentucky Harvest and is a great opportunity to nosh on good food from the chefs at Crushed Ice Events and dance with a fantastic band, The Crashers.

Mint Jubilee

The glamour continued on Friday evening at The Mint Jubilee, a star-studded gala, held at The Palace Theatre. Returning from a long hiatus in its original format, The Mint Jubilee, which benefits cancer research, pulled out all the stops by decking the entire Palace Theatre seating area. The result was a fabulous night-club lounge setting in front of the gorgeous Palace stage.

Taking to the stage for the evening’s entertainment were host and emcee, Bob Costas and “American Idol” winners Jordin Sparks and Kris Allen. Other celebs mingling with the beautiful guests were Julie Benz, Jamie Kennedy, Audrina Patridge, Jennifer Tilly, Betsey Johnson, Illeana Douglas, Fred Thompson, Vicki Gunvalson, Linda Davis, Nole Martin, Phil Laak, Miss Teen Kentucky 2011 Stephanie Jones, and Miss Kentucky Teen USA 2011 Kia Hampton.

Oaks night with the Grays

Derby week wouldn’t be complete without making it to the Gray’s ninth annual Oaks Night Party. Sarah and John Gray invite more than 500 of their closest friends to enjoy food, drink and relaxing and dancing to their favorite band, Danny Flanigan and Rain Chorus. Besides raising spirits and friendships, the party also raises money for charity.