It seems the party-planning gods got together this year and declared January and February to be, more or less, a time of rest. This either means that we'll be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed come March, or just more exhausted come mid-May, when the festivities break for the summer. Either way, we can't wait for another Dallas social season — and all the charities it benefits. To celebrate its impending arrival, we're previewing the top 11 events that we can't wait to attend.
An Evening with UNICEF, February 24
Because this is happening late February, we are considering it the official warm up to spring social season. And what better way to get things started than with an amazing charity that champions for the rights of children everywhere. Co-chairs Joyce Goss, Lynn McBee, and Gowri Sharm are inviting Dallasites to enjoy dinner, a moving program, and entertainment by the Hunter Sullivan Band at Sixty Five Hundred. Individual tickets start at $750.
Junior League of Dallas Ball, March 4
Ball chair Isabell Novakov invites you (league member of not) to the Hilton Anatole for an evening celebrating the Junior League of Dallas' 95th anniversary and the 55th year of the ball itself. This year's theme, Encore, strives to bring back the best of past balls and elements of this esteemed service league's success. Post dinner and show, expect spunky late-night entertainment from the Georgia Bridgwater Orchestra. Individual tickets start at $250.
MTV RE:DEFINE, March 24
Save your most artfully inspired outfits for this far-out affair that is in its sixth year of raising funds for the MTV Staying Alive Foundation. Renowned curator has tapped talented artists like Dan Colen, Petra Cortright, Sarah Lucas, Sterling Ruby, and more for an exhibition and auction unlike any other event housed at the Dallas Contemporary. Individual tickets start at $1,250.
The Yellow Rose Gala, April 8
We adore this charity and all that it does to find a cure for multiple sclerosis, but if we are being completely honest, it lands a spot on our must-attend list because of this year's entertainment. The Temptations, yes those Temptations, are set to perform at this gala happening at the Renaissance Dallas Hotel. And while they "ain't too proud to beg" for your donations, they prefer to leave that part up to the entertainment while everyone enjoys food, drinks, and dancing. Individual tickets start at $150.
Chick Lit, April 21
Calling all Real Housewives of New York fans, this one's for you. America's favorite Skinnygirl and businesswoman extraordinaire Bethenny Frankel is speaking at this year's luncheon that benefits Community Partners of Dallas. Luncheon chairs Tricia George and Mary Martha Pickens are expecting this Hilton Anatole affair to be a sold-out occasion, and tables begin at $1,750. Individual tickets go on sale in April if seats are available.
Dallas Art Ball, April 22
If the queen of all fall balls is Crystal Charity, it is safe to say that this soiree for the Dallas Museum of Art takes the top spring spot. Dallas' most generous philanthropists passionately support this annual event, which features a seated dinner, a luxury live auction, and a festive after-party ball that helps the DMA offer free general admission to more than 730,000 visitors annually. Themed "All That Glitters," chairs Ann and Lee Hobson have officially opened up table sponsorships and couples' ticket sales starting at $5,000.
Mad Hatters Tea, April 27
The ladies who lunch spend an entire year plotting and planning their hats for this annual, elegant affair benefiting the Women's Council of the Dallas Arboretum. This year's lunch, themed "Under the Tuscan Sun," is chaired by Linda Spina and features champagne, fashion by Tootsies, hat judging, and a lovely lunch in the garden. Individual tickets start at $350.
House of DIFFA, May 6
This is a far cry from your grandma's gala, and that's exactly why everyone loves it so much. This year's production, themed "Arabesque," plans to raise crucial funds to fight HIV/AIDS through food, fashion, philanthropy, auction, and more. Given the theme, we are already drooling just thinking about the runway presentation. Individual tickets start at $350.
Centerstage Gala, May 6
The Dallas Theater Center has enlisted event chairs Mickie and Jeff Bragalone to throw this grand gala fueled by live cocktails, dinner, entertainment, and dancing. The Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre always comes alive when a crowd full of theater-obsessed philanthropists get together to raise funds for DTC. So far, mum is the word on this year's entertainment. Individual tickets start at $1,000.
Genesis Women's Shelter Annual Luncheon, May 15
The women of Dallas have been counting on the Genesis Women's Shelter to pack a powerful lunch punch for years now. This year, the organization brings in big-time businesswoman and journalist Arianna Huffington. Every journalist is especially excited about getting to witness this media maven chat and bring awareness to a cause that is so near and dear to the hearts of many in Dallas. Tickets for a table of 10 start at $1,750.
TACA Lexus Party on the Green, May 12
Not much information has surfaced about this year's grand affair that features famous chefs from all over the country — and all the rosé that they can fit on the front lawn of The Mansion. What we do know, however, is the date (May 12). So circle it on your date book and keep an eye out for updates here.
Bill Montgomery, Deedie Rose, and Nancy Marcus at Centerstage Gala 2015.
The chef from SER prepares activated charcoal-crusted Akaushi ribeye cap and Yukon Gold potato fondant.Photo by Guillermo Rosas
Lavender berry and mocha chocolate tartlets from La Reve Gelato & Patisserie.Photo by Guillermo Rosas
Awards ceremony host Cleo Greene, of NBC5's 'Texas Today.'Photo by Guillermo Rosas