Out on the town this April? Here are some of the most fun and fabulous local galas, fundraisers, celebrations and other events to see and be seen at this month around Marin County.
April 11 St. Vincent de Paul Ladies’ Luncheon
The St. Vincent de Paul Auxiliary Board hosts its annual Ladies’ Boutique, Luncheon & Fashion Show. This event at the Meadow Club draws in supporters to raise money to help end senior homelessness in Marin. Last year’s luncheon raised over $100,000 to combat homelessness. Photos by Mo DeLong
April 12–14 International Ocean Film Festival
The world’s oceans are acutely experiencing the effects of climate change, and the International Ocean Film Foundation is dedicated to reversing our oceans’ decline. This yearly fundraiser supports marine ecosystems by screening groundbreaking films about ocean-related topics. For the 21st annual iteration of the festival, expect inspiring films, panel discussions and experiences for attendees — all in an effort to support the foundation’s educational programs and protect ocean health. Attend in person at San Francisco’s Fort Mason, or stay tuned for the festival’s online component from April 15–22.
April 13 Lifehouse Great Chefs and Wineries
The Fort Mason Festival Pavilion will set the backdrop for the annual Lifehouse Great Chefs & Wineries fundraiser on April 13. Dance to live music by Pride & Joy SF, watch a performance by the Lifehouse Performers and shout your bid during the event’s live auction. Last year’s gala raised $700,000 toward providing quality programs and support for Lifehouse’s community of people with developmental disabilities in the Bay Area. Photos by Drew Altizer Photography.
April 16 Marin Charitable Spring Fling
High Tea at Downton Abbey is the theme of this year’s Spring Fling. Afternoon tea will be served at Marin Country Club beginning at 3:30 pm, with the event lasting into the the evening hours with supper service. There’s also a fashion show that promises to deliver “dishy male models” and a shopping event. All proceeds benefit Marin Charitable’s grant program for Marin’s youth.
April 18 California Academy of Sciences’ Big Bang Gala
Celebrate the marvels of California’s diverse ecosystems—from majestic coastlines to breathtaking peaks—at Big Bang on April 18. The evening showcases the Academy’s Thriving California initiative, which harnesses scientific data and mobilizes communities to fight climate change, stop biodiversity loss, and advocate for nature across the state, and includes a sustainably-sourced uniquely California dining experience. California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot—who is leading efforts to conserve 30 percent of the state’s land and coastal waters by 2030—will be this year’s keynote speaker. The evening wraps with Party After Dark with music by DJ Unami.
April 20 MarinHealth Foundation Gala
On April 20, the community supporting MarinHealth Foundation will gather in black tie attire to celebrate this year’s fundraiser, “An Emerald Evening.” Benefactors of the hospital will dine and dance the night away, while contributing to MarinHealth’s Cancer Care Program. Photos by Drew Altizer Photography.
April 20 Marin Ballet Extravadance Gala & Fundraiser
For over 60 years, Marin Ballet has contributed to the arts and cultural enrichment of Marin County. The organization offers ballet classes for students of all levels and ages, including adults, and their Laurie Klein Scholarship Fund provides students financial assistance to increase accessibility and diversity in ballet. Support the company’s efforts at their annual gala and fundraiser this April. Photos by Sara Abushaban and Sandy Lee.
April 22 Marin Athletic Foundation Benefit Golf Tournament
Each year, the Marin Athletic Foundation raises funds to support Marin’s high school athletes and ensure they have a safe athletic experience. Community support raised from the tournament help the county’s high schools to provide services such as baseline concussion testing, safety equipment, and athletic trainers; plus it supports scholarships for the foundation’s yearly Outstanding Student-Athlete award winners.
April 25 Huckleberry Youth’s Hearts in Harmony Benefit
The Hearts in Harmony Benefit at The Chapel in San Francisco will bring together hundreds of hearts in support of Huckleberry’s youth programs rooted in safety, health, justice and education which serve communities in Marin and San Francisco. It will feature inspiring guest speakers, delicious food, cocktails, wine and dessert, plus dancing and music by The Cottontails.
April 26 Opening Night Party for the San Francisco Decorator Showcase
Be among the first to delight in four levels of spaces at the magnificent Bliss Estate at 2898 Broadway on “Billionaire’s Row” in Pacific Heights—the star of the 2024 San Francisco Decorator Showcase. The preview event, benefitting San Francisco University High School’s Financial Aid Program, lets partygoers sip fine beverages, savor delicious hors d’oeuvres and meet the designers behind every room as they wind their way through the transformed and exquisitely detailed estate.
April 27 Play Marin’s Player’s Night Fundraiser
Local nonprofit Play Marin, in partnership with Marin Magazine, brings back its ‘adult playdate’ fundraiser in Sausalito with dinner, drinks, music and a whole lotta games, “cuz grownups are players too.” All proceeds go to support Play Marin’s play-based programs, which create solidarity, friendships and skill-building amongst Marin’s youth.
April 27 10,000 Degrees’ Gala for College Success
10,000 Degrees, a Marin-based nonprofit instrumental in setting up students from low-income backgrounds for college success, welcomes guests to its annual One Amazing Community fundraising gala. The event, held this year at the Marin Civic Center, gathers donations for the organization’s programs and scholarships, benefiting students from the eight Bay Area counties that 10,000 Degrees serves, and celebrates educational equity. Photos by Rachel Clark.
April 27 WildCare’s Family Nature Day
WildCare‘s annual Family Nature Day on April 27 at the Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary always draws in animal lovers of all ages. Along with fostering a love and appreciation of nature and wildlife, the event features “Mrs. T Nature Scavenger Hunt,” a game to learn more about birds and how they fly. WildCare’s live Wildlife Ambassador animals will also make an appearance, including Milo the opossum and Mohave the desert tortoise.
April 28 Children 4 Change Challenge
The annual Children for Change Challenge brings families together with community leaders and nonprofit partners for a day of youth-led advocacy and volunteer activities. Families enjoy food, music and community alongside partner organizations like Multicultural Center of Marin, Love is the Answer, Cedars and others.
Give Back When You Go Out: Volunteer
Looking for more ways to give back to our community by volunteering your time? Here’s a list of Marin County nonprofits supporting a variety of causes — ranging from helping our most vulnerable residents to keeping our environment healthy — where your assistance can really make a difference.
