Star-studded lineup unveiled for 2026 Barnstable Brown Kentucky Derby Eve Gala

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — The illustrious guest list for the Barnstable Brown Kentucky Derby Eve Gala is a mix of musicians, athletic icons and Hollywood powerhouses.

The party is considered one of the biggest events of the Derby season. It was founded 37 years ago by twin sisters Patricia Barnstable Brown and Priscilla Barnstable, along with their mother Wilma Barnstable and Patricia's late husband, Dr. David E. Brown.

Here's a look at the celebrities expected to attend this year's gala:

Patti LaBelle
Chaka Khan
The War and Treaty (Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter, Grammy-nominated duo)
Dasha (“Austin” singer and ACM Best New Artist nominee)
Luis Fonsi (“Despacito” singer and global pop star)
Lance Bass (*NSYNC)
Joey Fatone (*NSYNC)
Howie Dorough (Backstreet Boys)
Tanya Tucker (country music legend)
Dannielynn and Larry Birkhead
Dana White (CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship)
Doug E. Fresh (hip-hop pioneer and “Human Beatbox”)
Sergio García (2017 Masters champion)
T.I. (Grammy Award-winning rapper and actor)
Brian Quinn (Impractical Jokers star)
Madison LeCroy (Bravo’s Southern Charm)
Odette Annable (Hallmark’s Kentucky Roses)
Andrew Walker (Hallmark’s Kentucky Roses)
Nate Smith (country artist)
Billy Gilman (The Voice finalist and singer)
Forrie J. Smith (Yellowstone actor)
Dalton Davis (country artist)
Additional surprise celebrity guests and athletes to be announced

IMAGES | Celebrities hit the red carpet for a cause at the annual Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala

The celebrity-packed gala, known for its musical performances by guests, has raised and donated more than $22 million, benefiting the Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center at the University of Kentucky.

The gala will be held at 8 p.m. Friday, May 1, 2026.