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.
Date TBD St. Vincent de Paul Ladies’ Luncheon
Each year the St. Vincent de Paul Auxiliary Board hosts its annual Ladies’ Boutique, Luncheon & Fashion Show at the Meadow Club to draw in supporters and raise money to help end senior homelessness in Marin. Last year’s luncheon raised over $100,000 to combat homelessness. Photos by Steven Gregory Photography
Date TBD 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.
Date TBD Lifehouse Great Chefs and Wineries
Lifehouse, a Marin County-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support services to individuals with developmental disabilities, holds its longstanding Great Chefs and Wineries Gala to raise funds for the community it serves. The elegant and popular affair features culinary delights and fine wines from 50 of the Bay Area’s most renowned chefs and wineries. Rock legend Huey Lewis serves as honorary chair, Insalata’s chef Heidi Krahling is culinary host, and Sid Sall chairs the wine committee. Local favorite Pride & Joy provides entertainment, along with Lifehouse participants who perform a fun and energetic dance routine. Photos by Drew Altizer Photography.
Date TBD 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.
Date TBD California Academy of Sciences’ Big Bang Gala
Celebrate the marvels of California’s diverse ecosystems—from majestic coastlines to breathtaking peaks—at the museum’s annual Big Bang Gala. Learn more about 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. The evening includes a sustainably-sourced uniquely California dining experience and a keynote speaker, and wraps up with Party After Dark.
Date TBD MarinHealth Foundation Gala
The community supporting MarinHealth Foundation gather in black tie attire to celebrate this year’s fundraiser. Benefactors of the hospital will dine and dance the night away, while contributing to MarinHealth’s Cancer Care Program. Photos by Drew Altizer Photography.
Date TBD 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.
Date TBD 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.
Date TBD Huckleberry Youth’s Hearts in Harmony Benefit
The Hearts in Harmony Benefit in San Francisco brings 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.
Date TBD Opening Night Party for the San Francisco Decorator Showcase
This annual preview event leading up to the monthlong SF Decorator’s Showcase benefitting San Francisco University High School’s Financial Aid Program lets partygoers sip fine beverages, savor delicious hors d’oeuvres and have the opportunity to be the first to see the transformed and exquisitely detailed estate featured that year.
Date TBD 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.
Date TBD 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 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.
Date TBD WildCare’s Family Nature Day
WildCare‘s annual Family Nature Day 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’s 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; past animals include Milo the opossum and Mohave the desert tortoise.
Date TBD 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.