Going to the bar is fun and all, but wouldn’t it be nice to know that those dollars you’re doling out for drinks are going to a greater cause? Vv Magazine’s Amanda Phuong rounds up the hottest fundraising parties happening in Toronto this month.
Toronto is jam packed full of charitable events that allow you (yes, you!) to get all dolled up, dress your best and party for a reason. These parties are often the city’s hottest events, documented by the likes of Canada’s biggest media outlets, and though they seem exclusive, invites are open to everyone. All you have to do is buy a ticket, pick an outfit and leave some room in your stomach for the never-ending flow of decadent drinks & heavenly hor d’oeuvres.
These are the parties you don’t want to miss this month:
Power Ball XVIII: Pleasure Principal
June 2
Easily the hottest art party of the year, the Power Ball is thrown by and takes place at the Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery. Join leagues of well-coiffed art types for a night of over-the-top installation art, performances and, of course, drinks on drinks on drinks. Proceeds from the event are used to support future exhibits at the Power Plant and general admission tickets are $175. Purchase tickets here.
Fight to End Cancer in Support of the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation
June 4
This annual charity event is like no other. Groups of men and women, with no prior boxing experience, will literally fight to end cancer, in true Olympic-style boxing. Each year, supporters can sponsor a fighter or purchase tickets to the black tie gala which includes an elegant gourmet dinner, various entertainers, drinks and the boxing match. Unfortunately, all tickets for this year’s event are sold out (it’s that good,) but supporters can purchase tickets ($30) to an exclusive viewing of the gala which features a DJ, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, raffles, cash bar and more. Purchase tickets here.
Mad Hot Ballet
June 6
Taking place at a new location on Toronto’s eastern waterfront, the Mad Hot Ballet is a charity event in support of the National Ballet of Canada. This year’s theme is, Outta this World, inspired by the galactic universe. Unfortunately, VIP tickets are all sold out, but tickets to the after-party are available for $125 a pop. The Mad Hot Ballet after-party will be an evening of dancing, MAD HOT cocktails, pop-up performances and tasty treats by Pusateri’s. Purchase tickets here.
Luminato Festival Opening Party
June 9
For a night to remember, head to Luminato Festival’s opening party. In the realm of charitable parties, tickets are reasonably priced at only $100 per piece and all proceeds go directly to the not-for-profit, cultural organisation. This year’s theme is Today is the Future, and tickets will give visitors a first-look at the popular festival and the opportunity to dance under the world’s largest mirror ball, experience a concrete-jungle style parkour performance and a range of immersive art installations. There will also be plenty of drinks and nibbles to go around. Purchase tickets here.
Hope for Hearts Gala in Support of Sick Kids
June 10
Each year, 1 out of every 100 children born is born with a heart defect, and more than half need surgery to survive. Funds from this annual fundraiser will go to support heart research performed in the Echocardiography Laboratory at the Hospital for Sick Children. The event takes place at the Granite Club, and supporters have two options for tickets. A gala ticket ($250) will give you access to a cocktail reception, show, dinner, live and silent auction, and after-party or, you can head straight to the after-party for a donation of $50. Purchase tickets here.
WWF Canada’s Pandamonium
June 23
Did you know that less than 3% of all charitable donations go to environmental organisations? Our animals and earth need loving too and this inaugural fundraiser does just that. Taking place at Andrew Richard Designs, all funds raised at Pandamonium: Doom & Bloom will go directly to World Wildlife Fund Canada. This party pulls out all the stops, with a live performance from Juno Award-winning indie folk-rock group The Strumbellas, an immersive multimedia experience by Moment Factory, food stations by top chefs, complimentary drinks and more. Tickets are $200 for general admission or $400 for VIP. Purchase tickets here.
All-Star Gala in Support of Sick Kids
June 17
In case the name doesn’t suggest enough, the All-Star Gala features an array of past and pro athletes from the NHL, NBA, CFL, MLS and MLB. Hosted at the Arcadian Court, the evening will bring 1200 young professionals together for live music performances by well-known Canadian musicians, DJs and an open bar. Toronto Maple Leafs centreman Peter Holland and Montreal Canadiens defenceman PK Subban are confirmed in attendance, and all net proceeds will go directly to the Hospital for Sick Children and the Montreal Children’s hospital. Tickets are $125 each, or $110.70 if purchased in groups of 10 or more. Purchase tickets here.
RELATED LINK: Save the Date: Power Ball XVIII
Did we miss any of the best parties that give back in Toronto this June? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us at @ViewtheVibe.