Jacksonville's Tri-County Derby Fundraiser Returns

Annual event hosted by Alpha Phi Alpha supports scholarships and youth education.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:57pm

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A bold, abstract silkscreen illustration featuring a repeating pattern of stylized Derby hats in a vibrant neon color palette, conceptually representing the festive and community-driven nature of the Tri-County Derby event.The Tri-County Derby fundraiser celebrates Jacksonville's rich culture and community spirit through an evening of style, music, and purpose.Today in Jacksonville

The Tri-County Derby, Jacksonville's signature Derby-inspired fundraiser, is returning on May 2, 2026 to bring together culture, style, music, and community impact. Hosted by the Sigma Pi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the Sigma Pi Lambda Educational Foundation, the event raises funds to help create greater access to education and opportunity for the next generation.

Why it matters

The Tri-County Derby is a longstanding tradition that has made a meaningful impact on the local community by supporting scholarships and youth educational initiatives. As a signature event, it helps bring people together around a shared purpose of investing in the future.

The details

The 2026 Tri-County Derby will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Garden Club of Jacksonville. Attendees are encouraged to attend, support the mission, and be part of a party with a purpose. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available through the 904alphas.com/derby website.

  • The 2026 Tri-County Derby will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

The players

Sigma Pi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

The local chapter of the historically Black Greek-letter fraternity that is hosting the Tri-County Derby fundraiser.

Sigma Pi Lambda Educational Foundation

The educational non-profit organization associated with the Sigma Pi Lambda Chapter that is co-hosting the event to raise funds for scholarships and youth programs.

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What they’re saying

“To learn more, purchase tickets, or become a sponsor, viewers can visit 904alphas.com/derby, follow @904alphas and @904alphas_ on social media, or contact Mohamad Merilan at mmerilan@gmail.com.”

— Mohamad Merilan

The takeaway

The Tri-County Derby is a long-running community event that brings people together to support educational opportunities and make a positive impact on the lives of local youth, demonstrating the power of grassroots initiatives to drive meaningful change.