The sun has emerged from behind the clouds, and spring is just around the corner. That means the Dallas social set is back in philanthropic action. We are marking our calendars, sending in our reply cards and readying our wallets for charitable donations. From lively luncheons to the city's most formal affairs, these are the 10 most anticipated spring events.
Saint Valentines Day Luncheon
We have a soft spot for any holiday that involves hearts, chocolate and sweet greeting cards. So obviously we're excited for the 29th annual Saint Valentines Day Luncheon and Fashion Show, hosted by Stanley Korshak, at the Meyerson Symphony Center. The February 12 fete, chaired by Angela Chouquette, Paige Slates and Maggie Kipp, kicks off with some morning bubbly, then continues with a showcase of Monique Lhuillier's spring collection.
After guests fight for front-row seats, they join honorary chairs Myrna and Bob Schlegel for lunch at the Meyerson, followed by a reception at Korshak. The event benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Junior League of Dallas Ball
These women certainly have their hands full — from leadership to volunteer service. And their grandest event of the year, the Junior League of Dallas Ball, is sure to exceed chairman Bunny Cotten's high expectations. This year's theme, "Joie De Vivre," was chosen to celebrate the League, their donors and supporters. Attendees and honorary chair Caren Prothro can look forward to a beautiful night at the Hilton Anatole on February 23.
TITAS Command Performance Gala
The Winspear Opera House sets the stage for the Texas International Theatrical Arts Society's enchanting Command Performance ballet on March 2, which showcases the talents of four couples and another group of renowned dancers. Tickets to the performance and TITAS' only fundraising gala, La Fete Du Ballet, include floor seating, a cocktail reception during intermission and dinner after the main performance.
Mad Hatter's Tea
We've already begun thinking about the kind of hat we want to wear for the 25th Annual Mad Hatter's Tea party and luncheon, which takes place April 11 at the Dallas Arboretum. Co-chairs Maggie Kipp and Shay Geyer are the brains behind the event themed "Adventures in Time," and we expect even more elaborate designs this year. The annual tea party supports the Women's Council of the Dallas Arboretum.
Dallas Art Fair Preview Gala
The fifth annual Dallas Art Fair is going to be the best yet, because every year the art-filled weekend gets bigger and better. We're vying for an invitation to the preview gala on April 11 at the Fashion Industry Gallery, which supports some of our city's richest art institutions: Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas Contemporary and the Nasher Sculpture Center.
We can't wait to get a sneak peek of the art from more than 80 different galleries, dealers and studios from around the world. We are equally excited to see what the A-listers are wearing.
Art Ball
The always-elegant and elaborate Art Ball, benefiting the Dallas Museum of Art, is one of the exciting charitable events of the year. We are giddy with anticipation for this year's affair, themed "Untitled." Co-chairs Jennifer Karol and Catherine Rose and honorary chairs Micki and Mayor Mike Rawlings welcome VIPs for cocktails, live and silent auctions, and a seated dinner at the DMA. The after party carries over to Klyde Warren Park.
Greer Garson Gala
Because we can't make it to the French Riviera, we have high expectations for "An Evening in Cannes," the 2013 Greer Garson Gala chaired by Jennifer and Chris LeLash. The fete, April 20 at Omni Dallas, supports the Women and Infant Services in the Margot Perot Center at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital. The philanthropic night is filled with tasty cocktails, delicious dinner and exciting entertainment.
Neiman Marcus Stiletto Strut
Stiletto Strut is one of our favorite annual events — and not just because it's at the landmark Neiman Marcus Downtown. On April 25, hundreds of ladies, decked out in all manner of super-high heels, strut around the department store to support The Family Place. Sip cocktails and strap on our stilettos for a great cause? We're telling chairs Jenifer Strauss Dannhauser, Stacy Girard and Lindsay Jacaman to count us in.
Genesis Women's Shelter Luncheon
The night after the George W. Bush Presidential Center opens, the former president will deliver the keynote speech at the 20th annual Genesis Women's Shelter Luncheon on May 2. Co-chairs Susan Wells and Angela Nash were also proud to announce honorary co-chair Nolan Ryan for the event at the Hilton Anatole. Tickets are not yet available, but we suggest checking the website often to snatch a few before they sell out.
TACA Lexus Party on the Green
We are prepping our palates for a night at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek for the TACA Lexus Party on the Green, which showcases the signature dishes of top chefs from around the city. On May 3 we'll be eating, drinking and bidding in a silent auction in support of The Arts Community Alliance.
Co-chair Merry Vose and her husband, Chad, at the 2012 Art 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