Derby Day

Saturday, May 2, 2026

Portofino Equestrian Center | Clayton, NC

UNC Health Johnston Derby Day brings the "run for the roses" right to Johnston County, NC. Over 1,000 guests will walk the red carpet in their finest Derby hats and fashion, enjoy exhilarating live horse races, sip mint juleps and indulge in delicious refreshments - all for a great cause.

Proceeds will benefit the Johnston Health Foundation.

The past few years revealed a need for many things in the healthcare industry – more supplies, more hands, and more accessibility. When you support UNC Health Johnston Derby Day at Portofino and the Johnston Health Foundation, you make a wonderful, immediate difference in the health of our community.

Your support can provide:

  • free heart health and cancer screenings as well as access to quality health care for the low-income, elderly, and disabled populations
  • scholarships so underserved youth in Johnston County can receive nutritional counseling and fitness instruction
  • peace and dignity and compassionate end-of-life care at the SECU Hospice House.

2026 Sponsors

Portofino Equestrian Center logoNovo Nordisk logo
North Carolina Heart and Vascular logo Mike and Pam MarvelUNC Health Johnston Medical StaffUnited Community logo
Dr. Robert & Mrs. Karen LippittSmall World Travel & Tours LogoDanis logoKS Bank logo
First Citizens Bank logo
Wake Radiology logo
Dual Comfort logo
InterState logo
Vast Management logo
Stephenson General Contractors logoNarron Wenzel logoBrent & Stephanie GeorgeWhite Swan logoChar-Grill logoCoca-Cola


Women in derby hats

Admission Ticket Information

Join us for an unforgettable Derby Day experience featuring four live horse races, Derby-inspired cuisine, signature cocktails, kids’ activities, and our crowd-favorite hat and outfit contests.

Ticket options include General Admission, Youth Admission, and a limited number of Premium Tickets featuring valet parking and reserved pavilion seating.

Purchase tickets

Dream Vacation Raffle

Your dream vacation is waiting for you!

Purchase your chance at the vacation of a lifetime for $100. One lucky winner will get to choose their dream destination when their name is called at UNC Health Johnston Derby Day on Saturday, May 2.

Learn More

A Toast to our Champions logo

Good bites, good beverages and good company.

This invitation-only prelude to Derby Day celebrates the extraordinary commitment to our cause shown by the esteemed members of the Johnston Health Society and Founder's Circle.

Contact Allison Strickland at 919-938-7169 or Allison.Strickland@unchealth.unc.edu to ensure you are a part of this exclusive event. You won't want to miss this!