Charity Datebook Calendar 2019
Although you missed the first two months of 2019 fundraisers, galas and events (they’ll be back in 2020!), there are plenty more to fill your datebook as you support great local causes.
January
A Taste of Phoenixville
January 17
Serving up hope and creative cuisine for almost 20 years, with a silent auction, music, local wine, beer and spirits. Benefits Good Samaritan Shelter, dedicated to helping with homelessness. Franklin Commons, 400 Franklin Ave., Phoenixville. 610-933-9305;
TasteOfPhoenixville.com.
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation’s 11th Annual Lemon Ball
January 19
Yellow dresses and ties are de rigueur at this evening of dining, dancing and auctions. Hear amazing stories of heroes big and small while supporting childhood cancer research. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market St., Phila. 610-649-3034;
AlexsLemonade.org.
Kennett Chocolate Lovers Festival
January 24
Hundreds of chocolate treats vie for awards made to all levels of bakers. New feature: a Kiddie Korner with fun activities. Benefits United Way of Southern Chester Co. Kennett High School, 100 E. South St., Kennett Square. 610-444-4357; KennettChocolate.org.
Academy of Music 162nd Anniversary Concert & Ball
January 26
Music director Yannick Nézet-Séguin and a special guest artist dazzled the audience in a concert at the Academy of Music, followed by a white-tie dinner and ball at the Bellevue Hotel, 200 S. Broad St. Phila. PhilOrch.org.
February
Philadelphia Auto Show
February 1–10
Kick the tires and take a selfie at this top auto show, with over 700 vehicles from 40 manufacturers. Feb. 1, Black Tie Tailgate, benefits the Dept. of Nursing at Children’s Hospital of Phila. PA Convention Center, 1101 Arch St., Philadelphia. 215-418-2000;
PhillyAuto Show.com.
Philadelphia Heart Ball
February 9
Wear your red to the gourmet dinner, live and silent auctions and entertainment to celebrate those who give their time to the American Heart and American Stroke Associations. Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market St., Phila. 215-575-5204;
PhiladelphiaHeartBall.Heart.org.
Polar Plunge
February 9
Make a splash! Dip a toe or take the plunge in the Brandywine Creek for this annual fundraiser. Benefits the conservation efforts of the Brandywine and Red Clay Valleys. Brandywine Picnic Park, 690 S. Creek Rd., West Chester. 610-793-1090;
BrandywineRedClay.org.
Trail Creek Outfitters 12th Annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival
February 21–22
Calling all nature lovers. Two nights of inspiring environmental films highlighting outdoor adventure, environmental concerns and beautiful cinematography. Benefits Stroud Water Research Center and The Land Conservancy for Southern Chester County. Chester County Historical Society, 225 N. High St., West Chester.
TrailCreekOutfitters.com.
2019 Lights of Life Gala
February 23
The Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition hosted this year’s gala “Havana Nights” to honor the lives of breast cancer survivors. Purchase a tribute of celebration or a memorial to their legacy. Dover Downs Hotel & Casino, 1131 N. DuPont Hwy., Dover, DE. DBCC.EJoinMe.org/Lights19.
Jump! For Willowdale Steeplechase
February 23
Jump back to the ‘80s and party the night away with DJ Frosty, a photo booth and silent auction at this pre-race event. Benefits Stroud Water Research Center, Penn. Vet’s New Bolton Center and Quest Therapeutic Services. Yellow House, 101 E. Street Rd., Kennett Square. 610-444-1582; WillowdaleSteeplechase.org.
March
Philadelphia Flower Show Preview Party Gala
March 1
Beat the crowds to a breath of spring and support the greening initiatives of the PA Horticultural Society. Get an advance look at one of the country’s best flower shows before it opens to the public. PA Convention Center, 1101 Arch St., Phila. 215-988-8800; TheFlowerShow.com.
6th Cheers for CHOP
March 2
Enjoy an evening of music, cocktails, dancing and an incredible silent auction. Benefits the Division of Orthopaedics at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The Fillmore Philadelphia, 29 E. Allen St., Philadelphia. CheersFor.Chop.edu.
Chester County Futures “Strikes for Futures”
March 3
Get the ball rolling for a day with friends, food, raffles, prizes and bowling! Benefits Chester County Futures, providing academic, mentoring and scholarship support for disadvantaged area youth. Palace Bowling and Entertainment, 977 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown. 610-458-9926; CCFutures.org.
1st Annual Charter Day Cocktail Party Fundraiser for the William Brinton 1704 House
March 3
Learn a little local history from living historian Doug Thomas (portraying William Penn) as you enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Support one of the oldest historic houses in America. Dilworthtown Inn, 1390 Old Wilmington Pk., West Chester. 610-399-0913; BrintonFamily.org.
The Exchange Club Family Center’s 24th Comedy & Magic Spectacular
March 9
It’s a night of mystery, illusion and family comedy and fun at this annual fundraiser for the Exchange Club Family Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse. Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, Philips Memorial Bldg., West Chester Univ., 700 S. High St., West Chester. 610-429-0634; FamilyService.us/magic.
CCCBI Foundation Masquerade Gala
March 9
Let the ball begin! Help support the development of future leaders in Chester County at this fundraiser for the Chamber Foundation. Extraordinary auction items and raffle baskets, contests and games, delicious food and drinks and a masquerade theme. The Desmond Hotel, 1 Liberty Blvd., Malvern. 610-725-9100; CCCBI.org.
King of Prussia Restaurant Week & KOP Shops for CHOP
March 11–17
A great reason to head to KOP for a week of dining and shopping to support Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s KOP Specialty Care Center. Exclusive prix fixe menus from restaurants and special deals from retailers.
VisitKOP.com/KOPRestaurantWeek.
37th Annual Chester County Antiques and Arts Show
March 15–17
Browse and buy fine collections from 42 top antiques dealers. Benefits the collections, conservation and educational activities of Chester County Historical Society. Church Farm School, 1001 E. Lincoln Hwy., Exton. Preview Mar. 15. 610-692-4800; ChesterCoHistorical.org.
Women’s Auxiliary to Chester County Hospital Presents the St. Patty’s Day Beef – Beer – Boogie
March 16
Put on your green and enjoy tasty apps, a delicious dinner buffet, beer and live entertainment, including traditional Irish dancers. Benefits The Women’s Auxiliary Heart to Heart Pledge. West Chester Golf & Country Club, 111 W. Ashbridge St., West Chester. 610-610-431-5054;
ChesterCountyHospital.org.
“All That’s Purple Affair” Unmasking Domestic Violence
March 23
Guest host Victoria Wyeth welcomes supporters to a cocktail reception, gourmet dinner, entertainment, plus silent and live auctions. Benefits the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County. The Farmhouse at People’s Light, 39 Conestoga Rd., Malvern. 610-431-3546; DVCCC.com.
Chester County Community Foundation Silver Sweet Charity Event
March 25
Fun, food and philanthropy—Chester County’s finest dessert chefs showcase their delectable creations at this annual fundraiser. A sweet time. Whitford Country Club, 600 Whitford Hills Rd., Exton. 610-696-8211; ChesCoCF.org.
Radnor Hunt Races Pre-Race Event
March 28
Chapeaux, Cigars and Cocktails—what a great combo! Create your own one-of-a-kind chapeau, roll a Race Day cigar and help choose this year’s signature Radnor Race Day Cocktail. Radnor Hunt, 826 Providence Rd., Malvern. RadnorHuntRaces.org.
Media Theatre’s 25th Anniversary Benefit Gala
March 30
Help mark a quarter century of bringing professional musical theater to State Street at a special reception and live performances highlighting the Theatre’s productions. 104 E. State St., Media. 610-891-0100; MediaTheatre.org.
The Red Ball
March 30
Another chance to wear your red at this premier event featuring 30 restaurants serving appetizers and desserts, live music and dancing, games, a sports-themed silent auction and more. Benefits the Red Cross House, a center for families who suffer a disaster. Lincoln Financial Field, One Lincoln Financial Field Way, Phila. TheRedBall.org.
Brandywine in Black
March 30
Guests dress in black (not white this time!), bring a picnic dinner, wine, centerpiece, candles and ambiance. Awards for the best table. Benefits Neighbors For Crebilly Farm, protecting the quality of life in southern Chester County. Location announced March 28 on Facebook. Facebook.com/BrandywineinBlack.
The Hickman’s Art of Caring: Passport to Art
March 30
See artists in action as six artists create pieces live, at a gala-like event, at Oakbourne Mansion. These, along with other works, will be auctioned. Benefits The Hickman’s Resident Assistance Fund for residents facing financial hardships. 1014 S. Concord Rd., West Chester. 484-760-6306; TheHickman.org.
April
Safe Harbor’s Spring Celebration
April 6
Enjoy cocktails, hors-d’oeuvres, dinner and auctions. Benefits Safe Harbor of Chester County, providing shelter and support to men and women experiencing homelessness in the county. Chester Valley Golf Club, 430 Swedesford Rd., Malvern.
SafeHarborOfGWC.org.
Thorncroft’s 34th Annual Victory Gallop
April 6
Gallop to Thorncroft’s 50th anniversary celebration, a black-tie dinner, dance and silent auction. Benefits Thorncroft Equestrian Center, providing life-changing services to those with and without disabilities, through therapeutic horseback riding. The Bellevue, 200 S. Broad St., Phila. 610-644-1963; Thorncroft.org.
Baker Industries’ 38th Annual Spring Gala
April 6
A dinner and auction celebrate the accomplishments of Baker Industries, a nonprofit work program for adults who are on parole, in recovery, homeless or have a disability. This year, Baker Industries recognizes Bryn Mawr Trust Company and its President & CEO, Frank Leto. Merion Cricket Club, Haverford. 610-296-9795; BakerIndustries.org.
77th Brandywine Hills Point-to-Point
April 7
A family tradition celebrating the first race of the season! See pony races, lots of activities for kids and great raffle prizes. Dogs on leashes welcome at this family-friendly event. Myrick Conservation Center, 1760 Unionville-Wawaset Rd., West Chester. 610-793-1090; BrandywineRedClay.org.
Wine Women & Shoes: Sip, Savor and Shop
April 7
Grab your girlfriends, slip on your newest shoes and enjoy this benefit for the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter. Check out the Marketplace, live and silent auctions, “Best in Shoe” and “Best Dressed” contests and luxury raffles. The Baldwin School, 701 Montgomery Ave., Bryn Mawr. 551-208-0348; WineWomenAndShoes.com/Event/Philadelphia.
Coaches vs. Cancer BasketBall
April 13
Yo, sports fans! Hosted by Philadelphia’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Coaches and their wives, this black-tie evening features dinner, auctions and dancing. Park Hyatt at the Bellevue, 200 S. Broad St., Phila. PhiladelphiaBasketBallGala.org.
Celebrity Chef’s Brunch 2019
April 14
Find out what 25 award-winning chefs are cooking up. Plus brunch cocktails, live entertainment and an auction. Join this year’s Honorary Chair, James Beard-award winning Chef Alex Seidel. Benefits Meals on Wheels in Delaware. DuPont Country Club, 1001 Rockland Rd., Wilmington. 302-656-3257; MealsOnWheelsDE.org.
57th Philadelphia Antiques & Art Show
April 25–28
Marking over half a century of showcasing the country’s preeminent dealers of museum-quality antiques and fine art from the 17th century to the present, this is a can’t miss event. Benefits Penn Medicine and Philadelphia Museum of Art. The Navy Yard, 11th St. & Kittyhawk Ave., Phila. Gala Preview, Thurs. 610-902-2109; PhiladelphiaAntiques-AndArtShow.com.
46th Annual Yellow Springs Art Show
April 26–May 12
This well-respected, juried exhibit features works by artists from the Delaware Valley and beyond and benefits the arts, education, historic preservation and environmental protection of the historic village of Yellow Springs. 1685 Art School Rd., Chester Springs Opening Gala, Apr. 26. 610-827-7414; YellowSprings.org.
American Helicopter Museum’s 13th Annual Fundraising Gala
April 27
Dress as your favorite Renaissance hero for “A Night in Tuscany Celebrating Leonardo da Vinci.” Enjoy cocktails, dinner, entertainment and dancing. Renaissance costumes encouraged. 1220 American Blvd., West Chester. 610-436-9600;
AmericanHelicopter.Museum.
Unite For HER—Bloom Spring Fashion Show
April 28
A spring celebration of life, fashion and community, featuring Unite for HER Wellness Day patients and their daughters as models. Benefits those diagnosed with breast cancer. Merion Golf Club, 450 Ardmore Ave., Ardmore. UniteForHer.org/Bloom.
May
“Taste of Spring” Fashion Show
May 2
Conestoga Branch of the Paoli Auxiliary members take to the runway for this annual fashion show. Enjoy lunch, raffles and a silent auction. Benefits Paoli Hospital. The Desmond Hotel, 1 Liberty Blvd., Malvern. 484-565-1380; PaoliAuxiliary.org.
Light a Spark: People’s Light Annual Bash & Bid
May 3
Support the arts at this annual fundraiser benefiting Arts Discovery, People’s Light’s award-winning programs for young people. The Farmhouse at People’s Light, 39 Conestoga Rd., Malvern. 610-647-1900; PeoplesLight.org.
Chester County Hospital Gala—Jazz Night
May 4
Let the music transport you to The Big Easy. Enjoy A Tasting of Chester County Treasures at the pre-party. Benefits Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Abramson Cancer Center at Chester County Hospital, Emergency Department. Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Rd., Kennett Square. Pre-party at Galer Estate Vineyard. ChesterCountyHospital.org.
Canine Partners for Life: Unleashed & Uncorked
May 4
Raise a glass to CPLs largest FUNdraising event of the year, celebrating their 30th anniversary with a theme of “Puppies & Pearls!” Feel free to wear your own pearls. Benefits their companion and service dog program. DuPont Country Club, 1001 Rockland Rd., Wilmington. K94Life.org.
41st Annual Winterthur Point-to-Point
May 5
A signature Brandywine Valley event complete with an antique carriage parade and antique car exhibit! Enjoy a spectacular day of elite horse racing on the lush grounds of the Winterthur Estate. Enjoy festive tailgating, hospitality tents and shopping galore. Benefits Winterthur’s programs. 5105 Kennett Pk., Wilmington. 800-448-3883. Winterthur.org.
Blue Cross Broad St. Run
May 5
Join the country’s largest 10-mile road race for a good cause. Run the point-to-point course, from Central High School Athletic Field, Broad St. and Somerville Ave., Phila. and finishing inside the Navy Yard. Benefits the American Cancer Society. 215-683-3594; BroadStreetRun.com.
Willowdale in White
May 10
Kick off the Willowdale race weekend in style! Wear white, bring dinner and drinks, table settings and decorations, then dance under the stars. The secret location is emailed that morning. Benefits Stroud Water Research Center, Penn. School of Veterinary Medicine’s New Bolton Center, Quest Therapeutic Services, Inc. Willowdale.org.
Willistown Conservation Trust Barns & BBQ
May 11
Join an exclusive tour of several of the Willistown area’s unique and beautiful barns and farms, followed by a bountiful barbecue supper. Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, barbecue and auction follow. Benefits the Trust’s conservation works. 610-353-2562; WCTrust.org.
The 2019 Surrey Gala
May 11
Check in for details about this year’s gala fundraiser for Surrey Services for Seniors to continue their mission to assist seniors with home care and care management. Philadelphia Country Club, 1601 Spring Mill Rd., Gladwyne. 610-647-9774; SurreyServices.org.
27th Willowdale Steeplechase
May 12
Celebrate Mother’s Day at the races! Tailgate or purchase lunch on site and bring the family to join in this community tradition. Benefits Stroud Water Research Center, Quest Therapeutic Services, Inc. and Penn. School of Veterinary Medicine’s New Bolton Center. 101 E. Street Rd., Kennett Square. 610-444-1582; WillowdaleSteeplechase.org.
Stroud Water Research Center’s Fore Fresh Water Golf Outing
May 13
Hit the links and spend a fabulous day dedicated to understanding, protecting and restoring our waterways. Bidermann Golf Course, 601 Adams Dam Rd., Wilmington. 610-268-2153, ext. 288; StroudCenter.org.
The Salvation Army Greater Phila. “Celebrate Hope” Luncheon
May 15
Honor local heros who dedicate themselves to providing hope and life-transforming opportunities to many in need. Crystal Tea Room, Wanamaker Bldg., 100 E. Penn Sq., Philadelphia. SAPhilly.org.
89th Radnor Hunt Races
May 18
Race day is about steeplechase racing, fashion and tradition. Celebrate 89 years of horseracing with everything from stylish tailgates, fancy hats and bow ties to the parade of antique carriages and thoroughbred racing. This race for open space benefits the Brandywine Conservancy. Radnor Hunt Grounds, 826 Providence Rd., Malvern. 610-388-8383; Brandywine.org.
Chester County Community Foundation Spring Silver Celebration
May 19
Join this milestone reception celebrating the Foundation’s 25th anniversary of supporting local philanthropy through legacy giving. Abbott Barn, 315 N. Creek Rd., West Chester. 610-696-8211; ChesCoCF.org.
Paoli Hospital Auxiliary Golf Tournament
May 20
Play a round of golf before heading for the cocktail reception with an open bar, silent auction, raffle and dinner. Benefits Paoli Hospital. Waynesborough Country Club, Paoli. 484-565-1380; PaoliAuxiliary.org/Golf.
Brandywine Health Foundation’s Annual Garden Party
May 22
See the “Battle of the Berries at Brandywine” as local chefs compete to create luscious desserts. Enjoy music, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a light supper and decadent dessert. Benefits Brandywine Health Foundation’s support of a Culture of Health in Coatesville. Springbank Farm, 301 Five Points Rd., Coatesville. 610-380-9080; BrandywineFoundation.org.
The Devon Horse Show & Country Fair
May 23–June 2
See Olympic-calibre riders, the best local riders, junior classes and munchkins on the Lead Line or come for the fun—like the Ladies Hat contest. There’s plenty more fun at the country’s oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show, inside and outside the ring. Visit the Country Fair’s midway attractions and boutiques. Benefits Bryn Mawr Hospital. 23 Dorset Rd., Devon.
DevonHorseShow.net.
Brandywine River Museum of Art Antiques Show
May 24–27
For almost 50 years, Memorial Day weekend has marked this premier antiques show, featuring distinguished dealers from the Mid-Atlantic and beyond. Benefits the Museum Volunteers’ Purchase Fund and Art Education and Programming. Preview Party, Fri. 1 Hoffman’s Mill Rd., Chadds Ford. 610-388-2700;
Brandywine-Museum.org/events.
Pop-Up Biergarten at Historic Sugartown
May 30, June 27, August 22
Explore the historic buildings and period demonstrations at this preserved 19th-century crossroads town while enjoying an adult beverage from Locust Lane Craft Brewery or Chaddsford Winery and food from Nick’s Roast Beef. Benefits Historic Sugartown. 260 Spring Rd., Malvern. 610-640-2667; HistoricSugartown.org.
Brandywine Health Foundation Strawberry Festival
May 30–June 2
What began in 1973 as a one-day event on the grounds of the Coatesville City Hall has grown into a four-day extravaganza with amusements, fireworks and more. Benefits Coatesville’s Public Library, Rotary Club and Youth Initiative plus the Thorndale Volunteer Fire Co. Brandywine Hospital, 201 Reeceville Rd., Coatesville. 610-380-9080; Brandywine-StrawberryFestival.com.
June
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Great Chef’s Event
June (Date TBA)
Watch culinary superstars along with representatives from the best bars, wineries and craft breweries share their creations at this tasty annual fundraiser at the Navy Yard. Urban Outfitters Headquarters, Bldg. 543, 5000 S. Broad St., Phila. 866-333-1213;
AlexsLemonade.org.
Home of the Sparrow’s 25th Annual Gala
June 1
Spend an evening with music, dancing, dinner, open bar and silent and live auctions. Benefits women and children in the County to prevent and end homelessness. The Phelps School, 583 Sugartown Rd., Malvern. 610-647-4940;
HomeOfTheSparrow.org.
17th Annual Up On The Roof
June 1
Sip a specialty martini as you watch the sunset from a unique vantage point. The West Chester Downtown Foundation and West Chester BID join forces for an evening under the stars with buffet dinner, music, dancing and open bar on the rooftop of the Chestnut Street Garage. Benefits the beautification of West Chester. 14 E. Chestnut St. (Garage), West Chester. 610-738-3350;
DowntownWestChester.com.
Greater Philadelphia Congenital Heart Walk
June 2
Take a walk on the wild side! All ages are invited to walk through the Philadelphia Zoo at this fun event. Benefits the Adult Congenital Heart Association and Children’s Heart Foundation. 3400 W. Girard Ave., Philadelphia. 855-CHD-WALK;
Events.CongenitalHeartWalk.org.
Chester County Hospital Polo Cup
June 9
For a posh outing, watch thundering horses and their riders play the Sport of Kings as you enjoy live entertainment, a silent auction, beer garden, delicious food and kids’ activities. Join the traditional divot stomping at half time and the annual Hats Off to Health contest. Benefits Ob/Gyn Clinic and The Women’s Auxiliary’s NICU Pledge for the Chester County Hospital. Brandywine Polo Club, 260 Polo Rd., Toughkenamon. 610-268-8692; ChesterCountyHospital.org/Giving.
French Creek Iron Tour–Cycling for Open Space
June 9
Have a blast as you cycle through historic Iron Furnace country and Chester County’s rolling hills! Benefits French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust. Start and finish at Kimberton Fire Company Fairgrounds, 762 Pike Springs Rd., Phoenixville. 610-933-7734; IronTour.org.
Stroud Water Research Center’s Road Rally for Fresh Water
June 23
Dust off your classic convertible and cruise through the watersheds in Chester County while collecting clues about your route and the importance of fresh water. Drivers and navigators end up at a beautiful preserve for a fun Finish Line Party. Benefits Stroud Water Research Center’s work on fresh water stewardship and research. 610-268-2153; StroudCenter.org.
July
Friday Night Lights at ChesLen Preserve
July 12
Star gaze and listen to live music as you sip wine and beer, toast marshmallows and socialize at one of the most beautiful settings in Chester County. This popular event sells out. Benefits Natural Lands. ChesLen Preserve, 1199 Cannery Rd., Coatesville. 610-353-5587; NatLands.org.
Tip-A-Canoe and Barbecue, Too!
July 13
Canoe down the Brandywine to a true backyard BBQ, then relax for an evening under the stars with live music and ice cream. Benefits the Brandywine Conservancy. Brandywine River Museum, Rt. 1, Chadds Ford. 610-388-8315; Brandywine.org.
August
Brandywine in White
August 24
The Brandywine Valley’s Pop-Up BYO Summer Gala, held at a secret location, revealed before the event. Guests wear white and provide their picnic dinner, wine, centerpiece, candles, etc. Benefits Neighbors for Crebilly’s work to save open space. Facebook.com/BrandywineInWhite.
5K Trail Run for Thorncroft
August 29
Run, walk or wheel along the riding paths and through the fields, then visit the Thorncroft Farm and enjoy food, beverages and music. Benefits the care of horses, the true healers in all Thorncroft does. 190 Line Rd., Malvern. 610-644-1963;
Thorncroft.org.
September
Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance
September 6–8
Calling all car fans! A nationally recognized motor car event, the Concours this year features the Buick, the designs of Bill Mitchell, special interest Porsches and road cars with racing names. Benefits Thorncroft Equestrian Center, specializing in theraputic horseback riding. Held at the Radnor Hunt grounds. 826 Providence Rd., Malvern. RadnorConcours.org.
40th Annual Chester County Restaurant Festival
September 15
Sample food from over 65 restaurants, visit vendors and crafters, and enjoy live music and a beer and wine garden in this street fair in downtown West Chester. Benefits the West Chester Department of Parks & Recreation. Gay and Market Sts., West Chester. Rain date, Sept. 22. West-Chester.com.
5th Annual Shugart’s Sunday BBQ & Blues
September 15
Enjoy tasty barbeque, sweet corn, homemade desserts, local brews, spirits and other cold beverages at the Historic Sugartown grounds. Listen to the blues as you enjoy family fun. Benefits Historic Sugartown, 690 Sugartown Rd., Malvern. 610-640-2667; HistoricSugartown.org.
Brandywine Valley SPCA’s Forget-Me-Not Gala
September 28
Perfect for pet lovers. Enjoy entertainment, delectable dishes, live music, silent and live auctions and, of course, adorable adoptable pets! Mendenhall Inn, 323 Kennett Pk., Mendenhall. BVSPCA.org/Gala.
Wine & Dinosaurs Around the World
September 29
Sip premium wines and specialty beers throughout the Museum’s exhibits as you enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres, live music and a fantastic silent auction at this fundraiser for Delaware Museum of Natural History, 4840 Kennett Pk., Wilmington. 302-658-9111; DelMNH.org.
October
Delaware Auto Show
October (DATE TBA)
See the latest 2019 models, a Kids Corner and more. Benefits DE Breast Cancer Coalition. Chase Center on the Riverfront, 815 Justison St., Wilmington. DelawareAutoShow.com.
Rotary Club of West Chester—16th Annual Chili Cookoff
October (DATE TBA)
Downtown West Chester gets spicy! Over 70 chili-cooking teams compete for prizes in several categories. Sample as many as you can and vote for your favorite. Benefits local nonprofits. Gay St., West Chester. 610-636-6740; WestChesterChiliCookoff.com.
Main Line Animal Rescue Gran Fondo Cycling Event
October 5
Join 500+ riders to bike the beautiful country roads, enjoy an awards ceremony, great food and beer, a live band, raffles, games and a meet-and-greet with adoptable dogs. Start and finish at Pickering Meade Farm, the 60-acre home of Main Line Animal Rescue, 1149 Pike Springs Rd., Phoenixville. 610-933-0606; MLARGranFondo.org.
79th Annual Chester County Day House Tour
October 5
Always the first Saturday in October, it’s known to fans as “The Day.” Celebrate the architecture of Chester County on this long-running house tour, taking you inside stunning homes. Benefits Chester County Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Expansion Project. ChesterCountyDay.com.
People’s Light Golf Classic
October 7
“Swing for a Cause” and enjoy friendly competition with those who share a passion for the arts … and golf. Benefits theater education programs at People’s Light. White Manor Country Club, 831 Providence Rd., Malvern. 610-647-1900; PeoplesLight.org.
Thorncroft Equestrian Center’s 9th Annual “Lobstah Bake”
October 13
A bit of New England in Chester County. Plenty of lobster, chicken, cases of wine and kegs of beer as well as lots of dancing to live music and kids entertainment—a great family fundrasier. Rain or shine in the Jimmy Moran North Arena, 190 Line Rd., Malvern. 610-644-1963; Thorncroft.org.
28th Annual Dilworthtown Inn Crush Cancer Wine Festival
October 13
Calling all wine lovers! Sample more than 100 wines and craft beers as you enjoy sumptuous fare, auctions, shopping, music and a car show. Benefits The Abramson Cancer Center at Chester County Hospital and Neighborhood Health Hospice. 1390 Old Wilmington Pk., West Chester. 610-431-5329; ChesterCountyHospital.org.
15th Annual Laurel Hill Cemetery Gravediggers’ Ball
October 18
Is there a better venue for a Gravediggers’ Ball than the Mütter Museum? Costumes and masks are encouraged. Benefits Friends of Laurel Hill Cemetery, working to preserve, interpret and promote the site. The Mütter Museum (of the College of Physicians Philadelphia), 19 S. 22nd St., Philadelphia. 215-228-8200; GravediggersBall.org.
Harvest–Unite for Her Chef and Wine Tasting Event
October 24
The region’s best chefs serve up a farm-to-table tasting event featuring wines, brews and spirits, plus auctions and live music. Benefits Unite for HER, serving local women affected by breast cancer. Phoenixville Foundry, 2 N. Main St., Phoenixville. 610-322-9552; UniteForHer.org/Harvest.
42nd Annual Radnor Run
October 27
Stretch your legs at this 5-mile timed running race, 1-mile walk/fun run and health fair. Benefits the American Lung Association. Radnor Twp. Bldg., 301 Iven Ave., Wayne. 800-LUNG-USA; Lung.org/RadnorRun.
November
56th Annual Delaware Antiques Show
November Date TBA
See the finest offerings from more than 60 distinguished dealers in art, antiques and design. Benefits educational programming at Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library. Chase Center on the Riverfront, 800 S. Madison St., Wilmington. 800-448-3883; Winterthur.org.
Devereux 20th Advanced Hope Gala—“Secret Garden”
November date tba
This black-tie event, raising money to support programs and services provided by Devereux, is a special evening with once-in-a-lifetime experiences and other unique items offered at live and silent auctions. Moulin at Sherman Mills, 3502 Scotts La., Philadelphia. 800-345-1292Devereux.org.
Home of the Sparrow’s 21st Annual Fashion Show
November Date TBA
This fundraiser demonstrates the power of women supporting women in the community under the theme “The Power of the Purse.” The runway fashion show and dinner take place at The Desmond Hotel, 1 Liberty Blvd., Malvern. 610-647-4940; Home of the Sparrow.org.
Main Line Notable Kitchen Tour & Chef Tastings
November date tba
Peek inside some of the Main Line’s unique kitchens on this self-guided tour of several private homes. Each stop offers chef tastings, florists displays and unique table settings so you can nosh as you find new kitchen design inspiration. Benefits The Philadelphia Orchestra. NotableKitchens.com.
French & Pickering Creek Trust’s 36th Annual Auction Party
November 2
Help preserve the special character of northern Chester County with an evening of dinner, cocktails and friends plus a silent auction with hard-to-resist items and unique experiences. Benefits French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust. Stonewall Golf Club, Bulltown Rd., Elverson. 610-933-7577; FrenchAndPickering.org.
85th Running of the Pennsylvania Hunt Cup
November 3
Timber racing, food and shopping highlight a day on the rolling hills of southern Chester County at this long-standing equestrian event. Amateurs compete alongside the pros at this “open race.” Benefits the Chester County Food Bank, Work to Ride, and Upland Country Day School. North of Rt. 926 and Newark Rd., Unionville. 484-888-6619; PaHuntCup.org.
Philadelphia Marathon & Half Marathon
November 22–24
Watch elite runners from around the world and maybe even your neighbors … or join in yourself! The city turns out for this big event, now in its 26th year. One of the top 10 marathons in the country. Choose the full marathon, a half, 8k or kids run. Benefits the American Association of Cancer Research. 22nd St. & Ben Franklin Pkwy., Phila. Philadelphia-Marathon.com.
Paoli Hospital Auxiliary Mistletoe & Magic
November 23
This annual event promises top notch dining and entertainment with a new, exciting theme each year. Check the website to find out more closer to the date of the event. Benefits Paoli Hospital. The Desmond, 1 Liberty Blvd., Malvern. 484-565-1380; Paoli-Auxiliary.org.
Phoenixville Chamber of Commerce Charity Gala
November 23
Dinner, dancing and silent auction with great items for this season of giving. Benefits the Phoenixville Senior Center. Rivercrest Golf Club & Preserve, 100 Rivercrest Dr., Phoenixville. 610-933-3070; PhoenixvilleChamber.org.
Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show
November 7–10
The country’s top contemporary crafts are for sale at this world-class juried show each year—perfect timing for holiday shopping. Benefits the Museum’s permanent collections, conservation and publication projects, plus exhibitions and education programs. Preview party, Nov. 7. PA Convention Center, 1101 Arch St., Phila. 215-684-7930; PMACraftShow.org.
December
West Chester Charity Ball
December 11
A highlight of the West Chester charity season! Enjoy dinner, dancing and auction. Benefits The Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children, Outreach, Emergency Family Shelter and the Homeless Prevention Program. West Chester Golf and Country Club, 111 W. Ashbridge St., West Chester. 610-431-3598; Friends-Assoc.org.
Uptown! Entertainment Alliance Gala
December 31
Ring in the New Year at this fun-filled gala to support the Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center at West Chester’s “Party of the Year.” In 2018 the theme was “Puttin’ on the Glitz.” Fabulous food and, of course, lots of entertainment. 226 N. High St., West Chester. 610-356-2787; UptownWestChester.org.