The 146th Kentucky Derby will run on Saturday, Sept. 5, four months later than normal. Originally scheduled for May 2, the iconic event was moved due to the pandemic and will take place without fans in the stands.

If you feel like whooping it up with others rather than staying on your couch, you have a couple of opportunities. 

First up, Conner’s Rooftop will host “Talk Derby To Me” that day beginning at 4:30 p.m. Take in the greatest two minutes of sports and enjoy the rooftop view of Fort Wayne’s incredible skyline at this first-come, open-seating watch party. Prizes will be rewarded for the best derby threads. 

Another opportunity to watch the thoroughbreds is in Churubusco, where Edwin Coe Spirits will kick off festivities at 2 p.m. The artisan distillery will have soul food by Savanna Soul, giveaways, and live music on the patio by Austin Marsh. Wear your Derby attire for a chance to score a bottle of Old Coe or an Edwin Coe gift card. 

INdiana native visits from nashville 

Nashville recording artist Dylan Raymond will bring his talents to Three Rivers Distilling Company 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24. The Indiana native has been making his mark across the nation, whether it is on the country music charts or opening for household names such as Trace Adkins, Jake Owen, Walker Hayes, and Colt Ford. 

If you are not familiar with Raymond’s work, maybe take a listen to his hits “I Can Be That” and “Home to You.” Once you do, you might just find yourself adding this show to your calendar. 

The place to be

A few days prior to the Raymond show, Three Rivers Distilling will be the place to be for The Be Colony’s new release, BE II. Head on out the evening of Saturday, Sept. 19, from 8-10 p.m. for the live performance and be one of the first in town to get your hands on the new 12-track album and an awesome new T-shirt. This is an all-ages show with free admission. 

Protect the pitties

Rudy’s Cigar Shop will open its doors to Pits n’ Pints: Blockhead Party on Saturday, Sept. 12, beginning at 5 p.m. Hosted by the Fort Wayne Pit Bull Coalition (FWPBC), this auction fundraiser will include a performance by Danielle Belle Fire & Healing and live music by The Kickbacks. Pet Wants Fort Wayne will be on hand with treats for the pups while Mercadito Taqueria offers the goods for us humans. There will be great items for your bidding pleasure and a wide selection of beer and wine. 

The FWPBC’s mission is to improve the conditions for pit bull-type dogs in Northeast Indiana with education, public awareness, and resources for pit bulls in need. 

For more info on them and the Pits n’ Pints event, go to https://FWPBC.com.