Black Tie in 2021

2020 was a trip for the Black Tie scene, wasn't it? There were a few large, engaged events at the start of the year but as March arrived, most of those philanthropic endeavors ground to a halt. Many events were postponed with their schedules still in flux, while others took the plunge and converted to digital. As 2021 rolls around, several nonprofits have embraced virtual, hybrid and outdoor models for putting on successful philanthropic events during an unprecedented time. Here's a few to keep an eye on:

CPC Night of Hope and Healing

Benefitting: Child Protection Center

When: 6 p.m., Feb. 4

Where: Plantation Golf & Country Club

Co-chairs: Camelle Liakakos and Michelle Moore

Tickets: $75

Call: 365-1277 Ext. 120.

Night of Hope and Healing is a typically busy affair, with representatives from local restaurants and drink establishments offering  samples. Participants will hear more about the organization’s mission of preventing and treating child abuse. This year the event moves from Suncoast Air Center to Plantation Golf & Country Club in Venice. 

Thunder By The Bay Kickoff Party

Benefitting: Suncoast Charities for Children 

Where: 6 p.m., Feb. 19

Where: Sarasota Fairgrounds

Tickets: $75

Call 706-3795 Ext. 101.

“Born to Be Wild” Kickoff Party benefiting Suncoast Charities for Children still promises to be a rip-roaring affair. This year’s party will be held under the VIP Tent at the Sarasota Fairgrounds on the first night of the festival. Guests can look forward to live music from Nobody's Fool and The Tucci Project.

Avant-Garde: Let Us Entertain You

Benefitting: Ringling College of Art + Design

When: 6 p.m., March 20

Where: Ringling College  

Co-chairs: Janet and George L. Miles, Jr.

Tickets: $500

Call: 330-3425.

Ringling College of Art + Design’s last Avant-Garde “Game On!” event was affected by the pandemic and transitioned to an online presentation in October. The organization returns in March with its “Let Us Entertain You” event.  This year will be a hybrid event with a limited number of people in person and others will watch from home. 

The Orchid Experience 2021

Benefitting: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

When: 7 p.m., April 16

Where: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 

Co-chairs: Ashley Kozel, Retta Wagner, Katie Hollingsworth and Liebe Gamble

Tickets: $500

Call: 248-3086. 

Rather than its traditional ball, Selby Gardens is going for an “Orchid Experience”  that celebrates the pop art works included in the “Roy Lichtenstein: Monet’s Garden Goes Pop!” exhibition. 

Annual Gala: Sock Hop at the Drive In

Benefitting: Asolo Repertory Theatre

When: 5 p.m., May 1

Where: Nathan Benderson Park

Co-chairs: Donna Koffman, Tammy Karp, Elisabeth Waters and Mary Braxton-Joseph

Tickets: $400

Call: 351-9010 ext. 4712.

 The 1950s drive-in - themed event will have guests parking for a night of dancing, music, and of course, milk shakes. Guests can enjoy drinks at a tented area or have the food delivered to tables outside their cars. Seating is customized so that a couple can enjoy a table for two, or a group of 10 can gather.

Editor's Note: The 2020 MaskOutAid! Event has been canceled