Uptown Magazine December 2018

Now
DO
GREAT UPCOMING EVENTS
BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE
Holiday Prelude XXXIII
Dec. 7, JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn
When Phoenix Theatre Guild and Phoenix Youth Symphony pair up, magic happens.
Holiday Prelude, now in its 33rd year, is nothing shy of magical. This annual fundraiser
is Phoenix Youth Symphony’s biggest of the year. Guests will enjoy a pre-spring
2019 fashion show by Escada, a luncheon, prize drawings and holiday boutique
shopping. Purchase one-of-a-kind treasures for everyone on your shopping list from
over 20 holiday vendors. This festive celebration raises funds for both organizations
hosting. 10 a.m. Fashion show tickets, $90-$125. www.phoenixyouthsymphony.org.
White Christmas Gala
Dec. 8, Arizona Biltmore
Dreaming of a white Christmas? So is Ryan House. Join them for their holiday signature
event, a White Christmas Gala. Held in The Gold Room of Arizona Biltmore, this
elegant soiree celebrates the organization for providing unparalleled care for children
and families navigating life-limiting or end-of-life journeys. Guests will enjoy a gourmet
dinner and festive dancing to the musical White Christmas written by Irving Berlin.
Gentleman are encouraged to tap into their inner Bing Crosby and don a white
dinner jacket or tuxedo. Ladies, wear an evening gown that would make Grace Kelly
proud. 6:30 p.m. $500. www.ryanhouse.org.
Phoestivus
Dec. 13 and 20, Phoenix Public Market
Phoestivus is inspired by the famous Christmas markets in Germany (called
Weihnachtsmarkt) and Seinfeld’s Festivus, a parody and secular holiday celebrated
in the show. Phoestivus returns to Phoenix Public Market, offering shoppers locally
grown and produced gifts from more than 130 local vendors. Running the gamut is
everything from prepared foods to jewelry to homemade holiday decorations. There
will be a Phoestivus Ale (brewed by Phoenix Ale Brewery) on order as well as other
fun happenings, like Phoestivus Reindeer (baby goats all dolled up) and a hipster
Santa. 5-10 p.m. Free. www.phxpublicmarket.com.
19th Annual Spirit of Community Leadership Awards Luncheon
Dec. 14, Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia
Scottsdale Leadership is all about developing community leaders, and the Valley is full of
them! The Spirit of Community Leadership Awards Luncheon is a celebration that honors
and recognizes the accomplishments of effective community leaders, both young and
established. This year, Diane Cusack, Suzanna Walden-Wells and Adway Gopakumar
will be the afternoon’s honorees. Attendees – over 400 are expected this year – will
enjoy a luncheon, reception and raffle. 11 a.m. $110. www.scottsdaleleadership.org.
53rd Annual Desert Ball
Dec. 22, The Phoenician Resort
Desert Foundation Auxiliary (DFA) 53rd annual Desert Ball is a celebration of family
and friends, and it’s a tradition that gives back to the community. DFA will proudly
present a group of 19 debutantes to the Phoenix community this month. Attendees
will enjoy everything from a cocktail hour to a presentation to plenty of dancing to
commemorate the newly inducted debts. Proceeds from the 53rd Annual Desert Ball
will benefit two local nonprofits, For the Love of Travis and Kids in Focus. 6:30 p.m.
$400. www.desertfoundationauxiliary.org.
New Year’s Eve Gala
Dec. 31, Arizona Biltmore
Back by popular demand is the Phoenix Symphony’s extravagant New Year’s Eve Gala.
Guests will ring in 2019 with music by The JJs Band, enjoy a cocktail reception, threecourse
dinner and the opportunity to dance into the New Year with the full Phoenix
Symphony orchestra. There will be other surprises sprinkled throughout the night,
including a Champagne toast when the clock strikes midnight, decadent desserts and
more. Proceeds from the celebration support the Symphony's education and community
and health and wellness programs. 8 p.m. $500. www.phoenixsymphony.org
34 Uptown December '18