Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) at Tryon Resort is kicking off its 2017 Saturday Night Lights event series with derby-themed fun on Saturday, May 6. A festive Cinco de Mayo celebration will start the weekend on Friday, May 5. Both events start at 6 p.m. and are open to the public. The spring Saturday Night Lights season continues through June 10 and will be followed by a summer and fall series. Weekend lodging is available for the ultimate equestrian lifestyle getaway.

Saturday Night Lights Derby Party

Come decked out in derby day attire and a festive hat and indulge in free, family entertainment and world-class equestrian competition. The Derby Hat Contest starts at 6 p.m. under the announcer’s tower on Vendor Row. The contest is free to enter and prizes will be given to most beautiful, most creative, and most outrageous hat in both adult and child categories. At 6:30 p.m. grab a seat in the George H. Morris Arena to watch the live streaming of the Kentucky Derby. The evening culminates with the $86,000 Tryon Resort Grand Prix CSI2* show jumping competition. Derby attire is not required.

TIEC is located at 25 International Boulevard in Mill Spring off Highway 74. Visit tryon.com for updates on summer and fall Saturday Night Lights dates.

– article submitted by Michelle McConnell Yelton