Party Time: The Haute 5 Galas in Orange County

Nearly every other day an embossed invitation arrives  announcing the beginning of the social season and beckoning your presence. Although your social secretary may be organized and efficient, dinnertime conversation is still dominated by what events to attend vs. respectfully decline.  The following five galas are a must for those wanting to support wonderful causes, have an exemplary time, and feel guiltless about dancing until dawn. Let the festivities begin!

Pacific Symphony Opening Night Gala

Ladies and gentlemen, mark your calendars for October 30th. Pacific Symphony’s Opening Night Gala promises to be the social event of the season. Known for amassing the who’s who of Orange County to celebrate the “power and joy of great music,” one simply can’t miss this illustrious event. Last year’s gala celebrated not only the first concert of the season but also the 20^th anniversary of Music Director Carl St. Clair. Though the event planners are still tight-lipped about this year’s event, we can only assume the gala will exceed all expectations.

For more information and ticket sales please visit www.pacificsymphony.org

Celebration of Life: An Evening at the Anaheim White House Restaurant

The American Cancer Society is sponsoring its inaugural “Celebration of Life” event on Saturday, August 29^th. Held at the Anaheim White House Restaurant, the event includes a “sumptuous” dinner, a presidential cocktail hour, silent and live auctions, and live entertainment. Chaired by Carol Bostwick and Gail Taylor, Celebration of Life is designed to help raise both awareness and funds for cancer research. This year’s committee looks forward to another “fantastic night of fundraising”  and to honoring Dr. Lytton W. Smith of the St. Jude Heritage Medical Group.

For more information and ticket sales please visit www.anaheimwhitehouse.com

The Diamond & Pearl Ball: One Night in Havana

Be prepared to be transported from the Balboa Bay Club & Resort to the saucy streets of Havana at this year’s annual Diamond & Pearl Ball. The black tie event will be held on Saturday, October 16^th with all proceeds benefiting the Beckstrand Cancer Foundation, an organization near and dear to many Orange County residents. Celebrities including Lisa Rinna, Henry Hamlin, Eva La Rue, and Oday Shakar will be in attendance honoring former All Pro NFL Center, Rich Saul and paying tribute to Monika Baker.

For more information and ticket sales please visit www.thediamondandpearlball.com

Crystal Cove Alliances 8^th Annual Beach Gala: Rum Runners Party

Who knew a speakeasy could be so charitable? Located on the beach in Crystal Cove’s historic district, this year’s soiree features a speakeasy complete with “rum runners,” vintage cars, live jazz music, and a plethora of delectable dishes provided by The Beachcomber restaurant. Tickets are nearly sold out for the September 25^th event benefiting the new educational and environmental programs at Crystal Cove, so be sure to purchase seats as quickly as possible!

For more information and ticket sales,  please visit www.crystalcovebeachcottages.org

Miracles 2010 Live & Swingin’: An Important Benefit for Children with Life-Threatening Illnesses

Nothing brings local business leaders, philanthropists, health activists, and Orange County residents together like the annual Miracle For Kids event, which supports critically ill children and their families. Held on October 16^th at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort, the “swingin’” gala offers a magical evening of dining, dancing and donating to Children’s Hospital of Orange County and the Pediatric Cancer Research Fund, among others.

For more information and ticket sales, please visit www.miraclesforkids.org