Q Williams Kentucky Derby Day Party Returns to Middletown as Inaugural Fundraiser for the Quentin “Q” Williams Foundation

What began years ago as a lively house party celebrating the Kentucky Derby is returning to Middletown, Connecticut on May 2, 2026, now as the inaugural fundraising event for the newly formed Quentin “Q” Williams Foundation.

The Q Williams Kentucky Derby Day Party Fundraiser honors the legacy of Quentin “Q” Williams, a proud Middletown resident, the city’s first Black State Representative, and a devoted public servant who loved the Derby for its tradition, its joy, and the opportunity to dress boldly and bring people together.

“Q loved the Derby for all the right reasons—the celebration, the style, and the excuse to show up fully,” said Dr. Carrissa Williams, Founder and President of the Quentin “Q” Williams Foundation. “What started as a house party has grown into something far bigger. I’m incredibly grateful to the community that has supported Q’s legacy to this point, and deeply excited about this new chapter as we work to build something lasting in Q’s name.”

The Quentin “Q” Williams Foundation was created to carry forward Q’s legacy by advancing the values he championed throughout his life, including expanding access to quality education, advocating for fair and affordable housing, supporting community-centered justice, and fostering healthy, thriving neighborhoods. The Foundation is operating under the fiscal sponsorship of Oddfellows Playhouse, the nationally recognized Middletown youth arts organization that Q proudly supported for its mission to empower young people through the arts.

“This event’s return is a meaningful moment for the community and a fitting tribute to Q’s deep commitment to Middletown,” said State Representative Kai Belton. “He believed strongly in supporting our downtown and local businesses, and hosting at Tate’s highlights exactly what makes Middletown special—local spaces that bring people together and strengthen our local economy.”

The Q Williams Kentucky Derby Day Party Fundraiser will be held Saturday, May 2, 2026, 5:00-9:00 pm at Tate’s Restaurant in Middletown, CT. Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased at www.quentinwilliamsfoundation.org.