Legends schedule full-scale celebration surrounding All-Star Game

A home run derby, two concerts, a luncheon and an autograph session are among the activities that will surround this summer’s South Atlantic League All-Star Game in Lexington.

The Lexington Legends, who will host the game June 21 at Whitaker Bank Ballpark, announced plans and sponsorships Tuesday. The contest matches top players from the league’s Northern and Southern divisions.

Paul Miller Ford will serve as presenting sponsor. “The All-Star game is a huge opportunity for our community,” said J.P. Miller, CEO and president of Paul Miller Autogroup. He said fans will enjoy “a great celebration filled with fun events and live music.”

National recording duo Thompson Square will perform in a free concert in downtown Lexington on Monday, June 20 as part of a partnership with the Downtown Lexington Corporation. Kentucky’s own Halfway to Hazard will perform at Whitaker Bank Ballpark before the game Tuesday night.

All-Star players, league and team executives will stay at the 21c Museum Hotel and the Hilton Lexington/Downtown.

The annual All-Star Game luncheon will be held June 21 at Tony’s of Lexington on Main Street and will be followed by a team autograph session at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

The Legends also announced plans for a twist to the home run derby competition that has become a tradition at all-star games at every level. The home run derby, which will take place before the game on June 21, will include a skills competition and a horse “race” in which mascot-style horses will advance based on home runs hit.

“This is a tremendous honor and privilege for the Legends to represent our city with the South Atlantic League All-Star Game and events surrounding the game,” said Legends President and CEO Andy Shea. “We are excited to celebrate with our fans, and to show off our city and Whitaker Bank Ballpark.”

Tickets to the All-Star Game go on sale March 12, but advance tickets will be available at Paul Miller Ford and Fortune Collision Centre locations in Lexington, Frankfort, Georgetown and Nicholasville.

This story was originally published March 1, 2016 at 1:53 PM with the headline "Legends schedule full-scale celebration surrounding All-Star Game."