Dallasites are as skilled at partying as they are at raising copious amounts of cash for a good cause. So, as the end of 2013 draws near, it’s time to reflect on the most fabulous philanthropic events of the year.
Was it over-the-top House of DIFFA or the always elegant Crystal Charity Ball? Celebrity-studded Two x Two or Black Tie Dinner? We want to know your pick for the most glamorous social event of 2013.
Vote daily until midnight December 30 for any of these memorable charitable galas:
Command Performance La Fete du Ballet
Performing arts enthusiasts wait all year long for the Command Performance La Fete du Ballet gala, presented by TITAS. The sophisticated springtime affair celebrates the arts through a beautiful series of dances starring world-renowned performers, followed by a seated dinner.
House of DIFFA
Marie Antoinette-inspired fashions, dynamic drag divas, priceless live auction experiences, burlesque dancers — over-the-top doesn’t even begin to describe House of DIFFA, the fashion and awards show presented by The Joule, benefiting North Texas HIV/AIDS charities.
Untitled: Art Ball 2013
We still have visions of red dancing in our heads from Untitled: Art Ball 2013 at the Dallas Museum of Art, a charitable gala so spectacular no name could do it justice. Attendees abided by the request for unconventional attire, an elegant complement to Todd Fiscus’ swanky red design.
Bespoke
In a season of spectacular functions, Bespoke at the Dallas Contemporary stands out. Not just because patrons fly in from all over the U.S. for this fresh and flashy fundraiser, but because local art powerhouses turn up to show their unwavering support for a not-for-profit institution.
Cattle Baron's Ball
Despite the pouring rain (again), supporters couldn't be kept away from Southfork Ranch to see country sensations Rascal Flatts, who performed long into the night for the country chic affair that raised more than $1 million for the American Cancer Society.
Two x Two for AIDS and Art
Cindy and Howard Rachofsky did it again. They lured celebrities and arts patrons from around the world to the Richard Meier-designed Rachofsky House for the elite Two x Two for AIDS and Art, which raised a whopping $5 million for amfAR and the Dallas Museum of Art.
Black Tie Dinner
Black Tie Dinner has to be one of the biggest, boldest events of the year, with more than 3,000 attendees to support LGBT organizations in North Texas. Notable speakers and performers included Wendy Davis, Patti Labelle, Fran Drescher and Peter Marc Jacobson.
Dallas Opera First Night
The Winspear Opera House stands elegant and proud in the Dallas Arts District year round. But once a year it is transformed into a glamorous red carpet affair for the Dallas Opera First Night celebration.
Crystal Charity Ball
This year Crystal Charity Ball took on Winter Storm Cleon and won: There was no shortage of impeccably dressed philanthropists at this year's gala themed "Magnificent Manhattan," which helped raise $4 million for eight beneficiaries in Dallas-Fort Worth.
Vote now for the most glamorous Dallas gala of 2013.
Crystal Charity Ball
Ice skaters showed off their moves in the "Central Park" rink.Photo by Ashley Gongora
The Kilgore Rangerettes channeled the Radio City Rockettes.Photo by Ashley Gongora
Dessert included a cake that looked like a blue Tiffany box.Photo by Michael Merry