The 2018 Moondance Gala to benefit the Esplanade Association, takes place on Saturday, Sept. 15, on the banks of the Charles River. Cocktails are at 6:30 p.m., before dinner and an auction at 7:30 p.m., followed by dessert and dancing.
Inspired by the vibrant colors and rich sounds of Morocco, it promises to be an evening to enchant and delight. Back Bay residents and Wayfair co-founders Steve and Alexi Conine and Niraj and Jill Shah will serve as Gala co-chairs.
With the theme, “It’s not easy being green,” this year’s Moondance Gala will remind guests of both the whimsy of children playing on the Esplanade and the serious work it takes to keep the park thriving. The evening will shine a light on the Esplanade Association’s continued efforts to create a thriving, safe and accessible park where people come together to share, explore and enjoy nature and community.
While the sun sets over the Charles River, guests who step into the park will be transported to another world where they can enjoy cocktails from within the Marrakesh lounge, followed by an elegant dinner of Persian cuisine by Max Ultimate Food set beneath a canopy of exotic foliage and glowing luminaries. The party will then continue late into the night with dancing under the moonlit sky. The iconic Fielder Field will seemingly be transformed into a Moroccan mirage for the evening through the creative collaboration of gala partners Frost Productions, Table & Tulip, Peak Event Services, Be Our Guest and Wayfair.
As the only tented black-tie event held on the Esplanade, this annual benefit brings together the Boston community and beyond to celebrate this treasured park and lend support to the Esplanade Association’s continued growth and vibrant future.
Last year, the Moondance Gala raised over $980,000 for the restoration, management and beautification of the park. It is the 2018 committee’s goal to surpass this figure and, for the first time, raise over $1 million for all the Esplanade Association is currently doing and hopes to do, to support the horticultural health and the beauty of the park.
Tickets are also currently on sale for the late-night party, Moondance After Dark, starting at 9 p.m. Organized by the Esplanade Friends Council, Moondance After Dark provides an opportunity for Council members and friends to experience the Gala post dinner. Besides DJ Chris Roxx spinning music for dancing, the late-night event will feature cocktails, light bites and dessert.
For more information, visit moondancegala.org.