From galas to fashion shows, these are the top charity events coming up this year.
Queen Latifah has been a regular at The Kennedy Center Honors each December; recently, she hosted the event that honors America’s best in cultural arts and entertainment.
Shooting for the Stars. A Day of Fun and Recognition
Feb. 13
The Foundation has planned an exciting evening at XCAL Shooting to raise money for its scholarship fund. During this event, an individual whose life embodies the Mission of supporting those who so proudly serve us will be recognized. XCAL Shooting Sports and Fitness 44950 Russell Branch Parkway, Ashburn, Va.,mybff.org
An Affair of the Heart Luncheon & Fashion Show
Febr. 21
Now in its 77th year, fashion meets philanthropy at this not-to-miss event presented by the Women’s Board of the American Heart Association Greater Washington Region. Proceeds save and improve lives by supporting innovation and programming. A silent auction is a new feature this year. Marriott Marquis, 901 Massachusetts Ave. NW,affairoftheheartdc.com
Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic hosts its annual gala on Feb. 22 at the Waldorf Astoria in downtown Washington, DC.
Make a Wish Mid-Atlantic
Feb. 22
This annual event, drawing over 750 guests each year, raises funds and awareness for granting life-changing wishes to local children in the DMV facing critical illnesses. Last year, this incredible evening raised over $1.53 million, fulfilling 376 wishes. 6 p.m.-midnight, Waldorf Astoria, 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW,wish.org/midatlantic/wishball
Lombardi Gala
March 15
The annual Lombardi Gala raises vital awareness and funding to support Georgetown University’s premier cancer research and treatment facility. This signature event plays a crucial role in advancing groundbreaking cancer care and supporting the mission of the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW,lombardigala.georgetown.edu
Imagination Stage Annual Gala
March 20
Celebrate a decade of transformative impact through our Theatre for Change and DC programs while raising vital funds to support Imagination Stage’s inspiring work in communities across the DMV. Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, 1301 Constitution Ave. NW,imaginationstage.org
Women Making History Awards
March 20
The event honors groundbreaking women whose achievements inspire future leaders. Since 2012, it has celebrated influential figures like Maya Angelou, Cokie Roberts and Viola Davis for their profound impact on society. The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW,womenshistory.org
Leukemia Ball
March 29
The Leukemia Ball, one of DC’s most significant black-tie events, has raised over $74 million for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society since 1988. Featuring entertainment from stars like Jerry Seinfeld and Diana Ross, the event includes dinner, dancing, auctions, and more, supported by dedicated leaders and generous partners. Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW,leukemiaball.org
Comedy for a Cause
Date TBD
The Cancer Support Community is hosting its inaugural comedy event in Washington, D.C. This benefit promises fun and laughter while supporting a great cause. The funds raised will support the global nonprofit’s mission to provide support, foster compassionate communities, and break down barriers to care for cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and loved ones. cancersupportcommunity.org
Greater Washington Region Heart Ball
April 5
Guests will come together for an elegant black-tie affair featuring exclusive live and silent auctions, dinner, and dancing to advance the American Heart Association’s mission and unite supporters across the Greater Washington Region. Waldorf Astoria, 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW,dcheartball.heart.org
Petalpalooza
April 5
Celebrate the arrival of spring at Petalpalooza, a vibrant, day-long event along the Anacostia River. Enjoy live music, interactive art installations, family activities, and roaming entertainers, culminating in the dazzling National Cherry Blossom Festival fireworks show at 8:30 p.m. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org
Empty Bowls
April 11-12
The 19th Annual Empty Bowls, hosted by St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore, offers an opportunity to support those impacted by hunger, homelessness, and poverty. Attendees can select and take home a handcrafted ceramic bowl as a reminder of these critical issues while helping fund essential services for the community. Maryland State Fairgrounds, Exhibition Hall, 2200 York Road, Lutherville-Timonium, Md.,vincentbaltimore.org
National Museum of Women In the Arts Spring Gala
April 11
This unforgettable evening at the Spring Gala, where the organization honors the remarkable women who have shaped the arts and culture. This elegant event will bring together NMWA’s passionate community to celebrate the legacy and future of women in the arts, offering a night of inspiration and impact. 1250 New York Ave. NW,nmwa.org
Gateway to Greatness Awards Gala
April 12
The 2025 Gateway to Greatness Awards Gala will honor Fashion Designer Silvia Tcherassi, Advocate María Corina Machado, and Latin Grammy Winner Pacho Flores at The Ritz-Carlton Washington, DC. This elegant evening features Michelin-star cuisine, live music, Latin dancing, and handcrafted cocktails, all supporting The OA Artist Fellowship Fund, empowering creative leaders across the Americas and beyond. The Ritz-Carlton Washington, DC, 1150 22nd St. NW,givebutter.com
Smithsonian Craft Show
April 23-27
This annual event showcases the finest handcrafted American art, with expert-selected exhibitors representing diverse craft disciplines such as ceramics, jewelry, and furniture. A new panel of experts curates the best in contemporary design each year. National Building Museum, 4-1 F St. NW,smithsoniancraftshow.org
The Children’s Ball
April 26
The Children’s Ball is the flagship fundraising event for Children’s National Hospital. Since its inception in 2007, the gala has raised over $46 million to support children and families. Proceeds benefit the Fund for Every Child, which ensures access to care for all children, promoting more significant healthcare equity in the community. The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW,childrensnational.org
White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner
April 26
The annual dinner is the primary fundraiser for supporting journalists, educating the public on the First Amendment, and providing scholarships. Ticket eligibility is limited to news organizations that are members. Washington Hilton, 1919 Connecticut Ave. NW,whca.press
Folger Gala
Apr 26
The gala will celebrate the Folger Shakespeare Library’s dedication to fostering discovery, transforming education, and crafting unforgettable experiences. This special evening highlights the library’s ongoing commitment to enriching the cultural and educational landscape. 201 E. Capitol St. SE,folger.edu
Wine at Wolf Trap
April 30
Wine at Wolf Trap is an intimate soirée that showcases exceptional wines and gourmet cuisine. Guests indulge in curated pairings, enjoy live music, and dance the night away in a sophisticated setting. 1635 Trap Road Vienna, Va.,wolftrap.org
The Great Ladies Luncheon, which supports the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation, hosts a fashion show each year
2025 Alzheimer’s Association Vision Gala
May 2
The Alzheimer’s Association will host the Vision Gala at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC. This event will unite influential leaders to advance the fight against Alzheimer’s and dementia, celebrate over $10 million raised for care, support, and research, and continue driving progress toward a world without these diseases. Marriott Marquis, 901 Massachusetts Ave.,alz.org/nca/events
Guests for last year’s luncheon included Marc Lefkowitz, Andrea Mitchell, Elise Lefkowitz, Anne White and Mark Roithmayr.
Children’s Inn: An Evening for Hope
May 3
The Inn welcomes over 1,500 families from around the world annually, offering them free accommodations during treatment at the NIH Clinical Center. The Gala is crucial in supporting The Inn’s mission to ease the burdens of illness, nurture childhood experiences and advance NIH clinical research. The Ritz-Carlton, 1700 Tysons Blvd., McLean, Va.,childrensinn.org
March of Dimes: March for Babies
May 3
This extraordinary event at Nationals Park offers a day of philanthropy with a leisurely 3-mile walk, VIP access, and vibrant family activities. Enjoy live music and a memorable ceremony. Finish the walk by crossing home plate, making it an unforgettable experience. 1500 S. Capitol St. SE,marchforbabies.org
The Lobster Extravaganza
May 3
The Lobster Extravaganza is an annual fundraiser for a program that provides free education, psychosocial support, and holistic care to individuals affected by cancer. The program offers support groups, counseling, and wellness programs funded by community donations. The Peterson Family Home,lobsterextravaganza.org
Virginia Gold Cup
May 3
The legendary Virginia Gold Cup steeplechase captivates a yearly sellout crowd of 50,000 spectators, offering exhilarating races and unmatched excitement. Great Meadow in The Plains, Va.,vagoldcup.com
Race for Hope
May 4
The brain tumor community will unite in Washington, DC, for a 5K walk/run to raise awareness and support groundbreaking research. This family-friendly event offers a morning of celebration, remembrance, and hope—together, we can discover a cure. Freedom Plaza, 1455 Pennsylvania Ave.,braintumor.org
Walk MS: Washington DC
May 4
Walk MS focuses on Circles of Support, bringing together people and organizations that improve the lives of those with MS while uniting participants in the goal of a world free from disease. It encourages individuals to identify their role in the MS community, whether they live with MS or support someone who does. 1500 S Capitol St SE, events.nationalmssociety.org
The Ball for the Mall celebrates and supports the Trust for the National Mall. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TRUST FOR THE NATIONAL MALL
Ball for the Mall
May 7
Ball for the Mall returns for an unforgettable evening beneath the Washington Monument. It will feature the 2025 History, Heroes & Hope Awards and celebrate the voices that shape our nation, all in support of preserving and elevating the National Mall with the National Park Service. National Mall,nationalmall.org
25th Annual Hearts Delight
May 7-10
The only four-day celebration of exceptional food and wine in the nation’s capital celebrates its 25th anniversary with master winemakers and culinary greats. Guests enjoy a variety of experiences, including embassy dinners, grand tastings, and exciting auctions featuring rare and large-format vintages. Various locations,heartsdelightwineauction.org
15th Annual Great Ladies Luncheon
May 8
The Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation will host its annual Great Ladies Luncheon & Fashion Show at The Ritz Carlton in Washington, DC. The event will feature The Symposium to Conquer Alzheimer’s, honoring Eisai for its work on disease-modifying treatments, followed by a fashion show by Saks. The Ritz-Carlton, 1150 22nd St. NW,alzdiscovery.org
The Phillips Collection Annual Gala
May 9
The Phillips Collection Annual Gala honors the museum’s dedication to education, community engagement, and cultural diplomacy. It offers an elegant evening of world-class art, exquisite dining, lively dancing, and enriching conversation. The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St., NW,phillipscollectionannualgala.org
March of Dimes Gourmet Gala
May 14
March of Dimes is leading the charge to improve maternal and baby health, focusing on reducing risks, preventing preterm births, and closing health equity gaps, all while supporting families through research, resources, and advocacy. National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW,signaturechefs.marchofdimes.org
Pen/ Faulkner Award Ceremony & Dinner
May 15
The annual PEN/Faulkner Award Celebration will honor the PEN/Faulkner Award winner and finalists, along with 2025 PEN/Faulkner Literary Champion Carla Hayden, a distinction created in 2020 to recognize exceptional literary advocacy and efforts to inspire future generations of readers and writers. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, 901 G St. NW,penfaulkner.org
The Washington Ballet’s Annual Gala
May 16
The evening will feature an exclusive VIP reception, dinner, performance and dancing, making it one of DC’s most anticipated galas. This celebrated event brings together leaders from the diplomatic, congressional, administrative, philanthropic, arts and policy sectors to honor outstanding dancers, a prestigious school, and the ballet’s devoted supporters, establishing it as one of Washington’s premier social gatherings. National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW,washingtonballet.org
Lawyers Have Heart 10k, 5k and Fun Walk
May 17
A DC running tradition for nearly 40 years, join over 6,500 runners and walkers for a scenic course among DC’s monuments and a post-race party. This is not just another finish line. It’s a movement for the health and well-being of all of us. West Potomac Park, 2912 Independence Ave. SW,lawyershaveheartdc.org
St. Jude Open
May 19
The St. Jude Open is recognized as one of the premier and longest-running golf tournaments in the DC region. The inaugural April 1995 event, which raised $40,000, may seem like yesterday, but this event has flourished over the last three decades and has now raised more than $5.5 million for the kids of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Woodmont Country Club, 1201 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Md.,stjude.org/stjudeopen
Spring Garden Party
May 21
Tudor Place’s annual fundraiser, a highlight of the season, offers an evening of exquisite food, drinks and lively conversation, raising essential operating revenue while celebrating the support of its generous sponsors, co-chairs, and committee members. 1644 31st St., NW,tudorplace.org
WorldPride in DC
May 31-June 9
In conjunction with local nonprofit Capital Pride, the nation’s capital is proud to host WorldPride 2025, an event that celebrates diversity, equality and love on a global scale. Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of celebrating Pride in DC, this momentous occasion will bring together millions from around the world to honor and uplift the LGBTQ+ community through a spectacular series of events, parades and cultural festivities. Set against the iconic backdrop of Washington, DC, WorldPride 2025 promises an unforgettable experience filled with electrifying energy. Various locations,worldpridedc.org
National Marine Sanctuary Foundation Ocean Week
June 2-5
Celebrating over 25 years of progress, this event highlights the innovators shaping ocean stewardship, from emerging leaders to breakthroughs in science and climate action. It invites you to join the movement for a sustainable future for our oceans and Great Lakes. marinesanctuary.org
Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens’ Annual Gala
June 3
The debut of From Exile to Avantgarde: The Life of Princess Natalie Paley will be celebrated at an elegant black-tie gala with cocktails, an exclusive exhibition tour and a starlit dinner, supporting Hillwood’s mission to preserve and share Marjorie Merriweather Post’s remarkable legacy. 4155 Linnean Ave. NW,hillwoodmuseum.org
Promise Champions Gala
June 3
The reception gala honors individuals dedicated to preventing violence, with proceeds supporting no-cost violence prevention programs in schools and communities nationwide. Union Station East Hall, 50 Massachusetts Ave. NE,sandyhookpromise.org
Capitol Pride Honors
June 5
Each year, the Capital Pride Alliance honors exceptional LGBTQ+ leaders and activists, and in celebration of WorldPride DC 2025, this year’s red carpet gala will recognize global InterPride figures, featuring live music, gourmet food, and a formal awards ceremony, streamed worldwide. Location TBD,worldpridedc.org
JDFR Real Estate Games
June 5
The Breakthrough T1D Real Estate Games unite the DC commercial real estate community to raise funds for Type 1 diabetes research. They celebrate nearly four decades of competition and aim to surpass $50,000 in grassroots support. The St. James, 6805 Industrial Road, Springfield, Va.,breakthrought1d.org
Swing Into Action for Kids
June 12
Dust off your golf clubs and swing into action at Paths for Families’ annual tournament, supporting an organization that has positively impacted over 15,000 children in birth, adoptive, and kinship families since 1990. Turf Valley Resort, 2700 Turf Valley Road, Ellicott City, Md.,pathsforfamilies.org
The District Cup
June 14
Building on this 100-year tradition, The District Cup is an organization that hosts an annual charity polo tournament on the National Mall to raise money to support educational and polo scholarship opportunities for underserved youth from the greater Washington, DC, area. The National Mall,thedistrictcup.com
Taste of the South
July 19, 2025
A fun night of tasting food from the 13 southern states! This year, Taste of the South is supporting 14 charities that support children’s literacy. The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW,tasteofthesouth.org
Citi Open
July 19-27
Co-founded by Arthur Ashe, Donald Dell and John A. Harris, the Mubadala Citi DC Open is one of the oldest and most prestigious tournaments in tennis. It is the only combined ATP and WTA 500 tournament in the world. It has been held annually in Rock Creek Park since its founding and is the longest-running pro tennis event in an equal-access public park. Rock Creek Park, Fitzgerald Tennis Center, 5220 16th St. NW,mubadalacitidcopen.com
5th Annual Charity Golf Tournament
Aug. 1
Ft. Belvoir hosts the Barber Family Foundation’s Annual Golf Tournament again this year. Learn about the work of the Foundation in supporting dependents of military families, meet some of its scholarship recipients, and enjoy a beautiful day of golf. Fort Belvoir Golf Club, 8450 Beulah St., Ft. Belvoir, Va.,mybff.org
The RAMMY Awards gala celebrates the DMV’s restaurant community every summer. Mark your calendar for Aug. 3.
RAMMYS Awards Gala
Aug. 3
BIZBASH has named The RAMMYS the best food and restaurant event since 2008. The event celebrates one of Metropolitan Washington’s greatest assets: its restaurants. Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW,therammys.org
DC Jazz Festival
Aug. 29-Sep. 1
The DC Jazz Festival presents a selection of the jazz genre’s most acclaimed artists and emerging artists and provides enhanced exposure for the rich treasure trove of musicians from the Washington, DC, area. Various locations at The Wharf, 760 Maine Ave. SW,dcjazzfest.org
The National Book Festival
Sep 6
Hosted by the Library of Congress, the 25th anniversary of the National Book Festival all things literary. Free to the public, the festival provides a full day of conversations with dozens of authors, poets and illustrators from various genres about their latest books and book signings with each writer. Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW,loc.gov/bookfest
Halcyon Homecoming
Sep. 10-12
The Halcyon Homecoming Summit offers the opportunity to Halcyon alums and other members of the Halcyon community to gather, share memories, and build toward another decade of success together. Halcyon House, 3400 Prospect St. NW,halcyonhouse.org
The 2025 Annual Celebration Gala
Sep. 17
The Annual Celebration is the Cancer Support Community’s premier fundraising event. The evening features remarkable honorees and memorable experiences. The benefit raises vital funds for the global nonprofit to provide emotional and practical support at no cost to patients, survivors, caregivers, and loved ones. International Spy Museum, 700 L’Enfant Plaza SW,cancersupportcommunity.org
Prevent Cancer Foundation Annual Gala
Sep. 18
The Prevent Cancer Foundation Annual Gala is recognized as one of Washington’s premier events, attracting more than 1,000 guests from business, diplomatic, government, medical, philanthropic, sports and social communities. The Gala consistently ranks among the top Washington charity events. It follows all gifts and ethics guidelines of the Senate and House. National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW,preventcancer.org
Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament
Sep. 22
The golf tournament is a captain’s choice scramble that supports the American Heart Association’s fight against heart disease and stroke. Woodmont Country Club, 1201 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Md.,heart.org/ahagolftournament
The Wolf Trap Ball each September supports Wolf Trap’s artistic and educational programming.
Wolf Trap Ball
Date TBD
The Wolf Trap Ball is a black-tie evening of celebration, dinner and dancing. The goal of the evening is to raise money for the Wolf Trap Foundation’s arts and education programs. 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, Va.,wolftrap.org
DC Wise Annual Gala
Date TBD
DC Wise advocates for women and children by collaborating with deserving organizations in our community. Over the past decade, it has raised $1 million to support Becky’s Fund, which combats domestic violence through support, technology and education. The gala will feature a captivating silent auction and an opportunity to dance the night away to mesmerizing music while savoring delicious cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres. Location TBD,dcwise.org
St. Jude Walk
Oct. 4
St. Jude Walk is a nationwide cancer in-person and virtual walk. Participants come together with a team or as an individual for a 5K walk to help support the lifesaving mission of St. Jude to find cures and save children. National Harbor, 802 National Harbor Blvd, Oxon Hill, Md.,stjude.org/walkdc
St. Jude Global Gala
Oct. 18
The annual St. Jude Global Gala brings together the Greater DC community for a celebration that includes dinner, inspiring mission moments, live entertainment, auctions and more, all to benefit the global and lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, 1301 Constitution Ave., NW,stjude.org/globalgala
The Meridian Ball
Date TBD
The Meridian Ball is known for intimate Ambassador-hosted dinners and a dinner hosted by Meridian. Following dinner, all guests gather for dancing, dessert and dialogue. The Ball plays a key role in helping Meridian generate awareness of and support for its mission. Proceeds from the Ball support Meridian’s global leadership exchanges, cultural activities, conferences and seminars. Meridian House, 1630 Crescent Place NW,meridian.org
NBC’s Craig Melvin always hosts the Blue Hope Bash, which supports the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.
The National Blue Hope Bash
Date TBD
The National Blue Hope Bash is the premier fundraising gala benefiting the patients and caregivers served by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. The event features an evening of cocktails, dancing and philanthropy—a pivotal celebration of saving lives you do not want to miss. Please stand with the Alliance as a supporter, leader, and pioneer and enter a new era of impact with us. Location TBD,colorectalcancer.org
White Hat Gala
Nov. 13
The White Hat Gala, hosted by cybersecurity, technology and AI experts, supports Children’s National Hospital. This signature event unites innovators and philanthropists to advance pediatric healthcare. It also attracts leaders from finance, legal and federal government sectors. The event has raised more than $5.3 million for Children’s National patients and families since 2013. Union Station, 50 Massachusetts Ave. NE, foundation.childrensnational.org
Greater Washington Region Heart Walk
Date TBD
The Heart Walk has always been about coming together, getting hearts pumping, honoring survivors, raising lifesaving funds—and having fun. With each step, you are saving lives and helping millions of people celebrate more birthdays, fulfill more dreams and share more time. The National Mall,greaterwashingtonheartwalk.org
March of Dimes Heroines of Washington Gala
Date TBD
Heroines of Washington is one of the area’s most unique events. It recognizes and honors women in the DC area for their dedication to community service. Since 2001, March of Dimes has honored over 150 heroines and raised over $4 million. Location TBD, p2p.onecause.com
The Kennedy Center Honors Gala
Date TBD
The sparkling event honors the lifetime achievements of America’s greatest artists in film, music, television and more. It’s a black-tie night not to miss. The Kennedy Center, 2700 F St. NW,kennedy-center.org
Light Up the Season
Through Jan. 1
Light Up the Season is a dazzling six-week celebration with the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC. Founded to honor the courageous patients, families and staff of Children’s National Hospital, the annual event features a series of magical moments and activities, including weekend Teddy Bear Teas with Dr. Bear, where guests can enjoy holiday treats and create cherished memories. Young patients work with the hotel each year to inspire one-of-a-kind holiday vignettes that reflect their hopes and dreams. These heartwarming displays light up the season with gratitude and the spirit of giving. Four Seasons Washington DC, 2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW,foundersauxiliaryboard.com
Photography by: COURTESY OF TONY POWELL, BLUE HOPE BASH, THE KENNEDY CENTER, CHRISTA MACHADO.
