Join Leadership Macomb’s First Annual Night at the Races

Leadership Macomb’s first annual Night at the Races is an opportunity to enjoy an energetic evening with friends, colleagues, and neighbors while investing in leadership across Macomb County. On Friday, October 9, 2026, we’ll gather for horse racing, food, drinks, friendly competition, and meaningful community connection—all in support of Leadership Macomb programs and initiatives.

This 21+ fundraiser brings people together for a memorable night out with a purpose. Every ticket, sponsorship, raffle entry, and horse ownership opportunity helps strengthen the leadership development experiences that prepare people to serve, collaborate, and make a difference in our community.

Event Details

Date: Friday, October 9, 2026
Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM
Location: Vintage House, 31816 Utica Rd., Fraser, MI 48026

Tickets are $60 per person and include dinner and a premium open bar. Tables of eight are available for $480. This is a cash and card event, and registration is requested by September 25.

A Night of Racing, Games, and Fun

Night at the Races is designed to create plenty of excitement from the moment guests arrive. After doors open at 6:00 PM, dinner will be served at 6:45 PM. The wagering windows open at 7:50 PM, and the first race begins at 8:00 PM. The races conclude at approximately 11:00 PM.

Throughout the evening, guests can look forward to 11 thrilling races, horse wagering, raffle prizes, a 50/50 raffle, and the always-entertaining Heads & Tails game. Guests are also encouraged to show off their race-day style in the Best Derby Dressed Contest. Whether you arrive in classic Derby attire or simply ready to cheer, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Be an Owner for the Evening

Want to add another level of excitement to the event? For $25, attendees can buy and name a horse. The owner of the winning horse from each race will receive $50. It is a fun way to get involved, root for a favorite throughout the night, and make the experience even more personal.

The evening’s 11th Horse Auction Race will add another special moment to the program. This feature offers guests another chance to participate in the action while supporting Leadership Macomb’s mission.

Why This Fundraiser Matters

Leadership Macomb develops and empowers leaders who care about the future of Macomb County. Our programs connect professionals, emerging leaders, local organizations, and community members with the people, issues, and opportunities that shape our region.

By joining us at Night at the Races, you are doing more than attending a fundraiser. You are helping make leadership education, civic engagement, relationship-building, and hands-on learning possible for people who are ready to contribute to their workplaces and communities. The proceeds from this event support Leadership Macomb programs and initiatives that strengthen our local leadership pipeline.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Businesses and organizations can elevate their involvement through a range of sponsorship opportunities. Sponsorship is a meaningful way to support Leadership Macomb while gaining visibility among professionals, community leaders, alumni, and local supporters.

Presenting Sponsors receive a reserved table for eight, exclusive sponsorship of a race from races one through four, premier logo placement, a full-page program ad, recognition during opening remarks, four pre-event social media recognitions, and more. Gold Sponsors receive a reserved table for eight, sponsorship of a race from races five through 10, a half-page program ad, recognition during their sponsored race, and additional promotional opportunities.

Silver Sponsors receive a quarter-page program ad, logo placement on event signage, event webpage recognition, one pre-event social media recognition, and slideshow recognition. Bronze Sponsors receive a business-card-size program ad, sponsor signage recognition, event webpage recognition, and slideshow recognition. A limited Final Race Sponsor opportunity is also available, with exclusive recognition connected to the evening’s 11th race.

Bring Your Team, Friends, and Derby Spirit

Night at the Races is an ideal outing for colleagues, alumni, friends, and community partners. Reserve a table, invite your team, or gather a group of friends for an evening that blends connection with celebration. A special prize will be awarded to the LM Class with the most representation! Between dinner, games, racing, prizes, and networking, there will be plenty of opportunities to meet new people and reconnect with familiar faces.

 

We hope you will join Leadership Macomb for our first annual Night at the Races on October 9. Come ready for an evening of fun, support the leaders who move Macomb County forward, and help us make this inaugural fundraiser a winning tradition Purchase your ticket, buy & name a horse, or become a sponsor at by clicking HERE .

FAQ

What does my ticket include?

A $60 ticket includes dinner and a premium open bar. Tables of eight are available for $480.

What time should I arrive?

Doors open at 6:00 PM at Vintage House in Fraser. Dinner is served at 6:45 PM, and the first race begins at 8:00 PM.

Is this event open to everyone?

Night at the Races is a 21+ event. Guests are welcome to attend individually, with friends, or as part of a reserved table.

How can I participate beyond purchasing a ticket?

You can purchase a $25 horse ownership opportunity, take part in the raffles and games, become a sponsor, or volunteer to support the event.

Where do the proceeds go?

All proceeds support Leadership Macomb programs and initiatives that advance leadership development and community impact in Macomb County.