This year marks the 30th anniversary of Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida® and we have some exciting things planned for our annual Wishmaker’s Ball!
As our signature black-tie gala, the Wishmaker’s Ball is the culmination of 365 days of hard work, where we celebrate our amazing wish kids as well as the donors who help grant these wishes.
If you have never attended the Wishmaker’s Ball in Orlando, you’ve been missing out on a night full of joy, inspiration, community, and fun. Let’s take a look at what you can expect from this one-of-a-kind event!
What Is the Wishmaker’s Ball?
Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida hosts multiple events throughout the year, but the largest by far is the Wishmaker’s Ball.
While the evening is always full of festivities and fun, the real purpose of the event is to raise money to support local families and their children who have been affected by critical illnesses.
For the thousands of children every year who receive a life-altering diagnosis, Make-A-Wish acts as a beacon of hope and inspiration. For these families, wishes are much more than a fun trip or a special occasion—they have a real and lasting effect on a child’s mental health.
Last year, the event raised $1.4 million (that’s enough to grant 175 wishes)!
What To Expect
The Orlando Wishmaker’s Ball is held every year at the Waldorf Astoria, a 5-star resort known for its hospitality. Attendees often use the gala as an opportunity for a weekend getaway, taking advantage of the special room rates reserved for our guests.
The evening begins with a VIP reception featuring an open bar and a tantalizing selection of butler-passed hors d’oeuvres. Guests also have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction, featuring an eclectic selection of items, from trips and unique experiences to gift cards and toys.
Once the program is officially underway, it’s time for one of the night’s most exciting events: the VIP table raffle! Winners of the raffle will spend the evening at an upgraded table that includes several additional perks.
As you enjoy a delicious three-course dinner, you’ll hear inspirational stories from wish kids who have had their wishes granted and their lives changed. For many, seeing the real-life families who benefit from Make-A-Wish helps to put the event into perspective.
After dinner (and dessert!), guests can participate in our live auction, featuring exclusive getaways and experiences donated by our partners and supporters.
After the auction, the program might be over, but the fun is just getting started! All guests are invited to our after party where they can dance the night away.
Take a look at the full Schedule of Events.
We’ll See You There!
The Wishmaker’s Ball will be held on May 11, 2024. Purchase your tickets today to take part in this unforgettable event and support the goals of Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida.
Sponsorship packages are available for corporate attendees (or private organizations) who want to attend the event as a group.
As we look back on the last 30 years of granting wishes, we are even more inspired to keep serving the community for another 30 years and beyond! Thank you for supporting Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida.
