The Bass proved once again why its annual gala is among the most anticipated dates on the Miami art/social calendar. The Bass Ball: Kaleidoscopic brought out artists, fashion-forward philanthropists, socialites, and party people to honor the fabulous Cathy Vedovi—the collector and designer whose French roots and LA education have made her a true icon in our local arts scene.

The theme was “Kaleidoscopic,” inspired by the museum’s exhibition The Kaleidoscopic: Writing Histories Through the Collection. The evening reflected the multifaceted nature of storytelling through art, welcoming artists and art lovers into a richly layered visual experience. This wasn’t your average black-tie affair; the guests took the theme to heart with outfits that were pure creative genius. Everywhere you looked, there were bold prints, shimmering textures, and over the top accessories that turned the museum into a living, breathing art gallery.

Guests were immersed in lavish décor by Alejandro Muguerza, complemented by a dynamic lighting installation by artist MIKIHUMO that illuminated the museum’s façade and interior. Dinner by Le Basque was top-tier, as usual, but it was the outstanding music that really set the night apart. Things kicked off with smooth jazz by saxophonist Manuel Echazabal in the Social Assembly Lounge, giving everyone a chance to catch up in style.

But even before the dinner plates were cleared, the vibe shifted into high gear. The museum lobby transformed into the ultimate energetic dance party thanks to @DJCLAUDIOF aka Claudio Figueroa, the man behind the vibe at Casa Tua. He was on fire, spinning every genre imaginable—from global house beats to crowd-favorite anthems.

The music was so good it kept the gorgeous, fashion-focused crowd glued to the dance floor, keeping the energy electric well into the early morning hours. Let’s just say no one was ready to go once the “lights came on.”

All of the glam and fun supports a worthy cause, with proceeds going directly to the museum’s education programs and world-class exhibitions. Be sure to keep up with all of the happenings at the Bass on Instagram @thebassmoa and online at https://thebass.org.

Photos

Courtesy of the Bass Museum and World Red Eye.

An Evening of Compassion, the inaugural signature fundraising event for the Hope For Animals Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting homeless, injured and endangered animals, will host its inaugural event on January 27. Join community leaders, partners, and animal advocates at Toku Modern Asian to raise critical funds and awareness for animal welfare—while also supporting families facing hardship who are struggling to care for their beloved pets.

Guests will enjoy an elevated cocktail-style experience featuring meaningful connections, raffles, and impactful storytelling centered on compassion, collaboration, and community impact.

For more information visit:

https://hopeforanimalsfoundation.betterworld.org/events/benefiting-Hope-for-Animals-Foundation

One of Miami’s most anticipated foodie fundraisers is back. On Thursday, November 6, 2025, March of Dimes will host its annual Signature Chefs Feeding Motherhood event at Briza on the Bay, bringing together top chefs, community leaders, and advocates for a night that tastes as good as it feels.

At the helm this year is Joanne Ruggiero, CEO of Jackson Memorial Medical Center, who is leading the campaign with her trademark passion for maternal and infant health. The evening also celebrates Dr. Rodrigo Ruano, Chief of Maternal-Fetal Medicine at the University of Miami and Director of the UHealth Jackson Fetal Care Center. Dr. Ruano will receive the 2nd Annual Mission Impact Award for pioneering in-utero procedures, including Florida’s first fetal brain embolization and groundbreaking advances in spina bifida repair surgery—work that has saved lives and transformed outcomes for high-risk pregnancies.

Of course, no Miami soirée is complete without incredible food and drink. Guests will savor signature bites from local favorites like Arcano, Chris Valdes Catering, Bulla Gastrobar, Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard and Bar, Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop, Pisco y Nazca, Quinto, Toro Toro at InterContinental Miami, and more. Adding to the culinary magic, Sunshine Steaks & Provisions joins as the Signature Culinary Partner, while Bacardi returns as the Signature Cocktail Partner to keep spirits flowing.

Expect more than just good taste—the evening features an inspiring program, a high-energy live auction, and the chance to support Fund the Mission, directly fueling March of Dimes’ critical work in research, advocacy, education, and family support.

For tickets, sponsorships, or partnership opportunities, visit signaturechefs.org/event/miami or contact Sara Bloom at sbloom@marchofdimes.org or (786) 475-9339.

International non-profit organization Faena Art is thrilled to announce its fifth annual Gala. Hosted by Alan and Grace Faena, the fundraiser will take place poolside at Faena Miami Beach (3201 Collins Avenue) on Tuesday, April 29 at 7:00pm.

Faena Art’s gala celebrates the arts by directly supporting its mission to break boundaries, commemorate innovation in artistic expression, and honor the creative spirit that propels our community of talented artists forward. 

Proceeds from the gathering go towards expanding and elevating the cultural footprint of Miami through the organization’s free and open-to-the-public programming. This includes amplifying emerging artists and curating experimental site-specific commissions at the Faena Art Project Room, which serves as a canvas for interdisciplinary artists to explore new facets of their practice while engaging with the local community. Donations also support the prestigious Faena Prize for the Arts, which is awarded biennially and recognizes artistic experimentation through the links between art, technology, and design.

By commissioning cross disciplinary artistic experiences, such as those being prepared for the gala, Faena Art emphasizes the cultivation of community and its support for artists locally and abroad. This year’s theme, Follow Your Rainbow, will inspire a radiant celebration of joy, color, and artistic expression highlighting the work of esteemed artist Joel Mesler. 

The spectacular gathering will display a site-specific installation from Mesler, who is known for his vibrant texture -based paintings that blend pop culture, personal nostalgia, and playful motifs. Often featuring bold phrases over lush, tropical backdrops, Mesler’s work will invite guests to join the artist in exploring themes of identity, self-reflection, and humor.

Through a rainbow archway, guests will be greeted and guided to Faena’s exclusive pool by colorful pathways that set the stage for an exhilarating and animated evening. In lieu of a traditional gala setting, the interactive immersion of the senses will begin with an elaborate culinary processional of delicacies from signature Chef Paul Qui. Drawing culinary inspiration from his Filipino roots coupled with Japanese, Spanish and French cooking styles, Qui will present a colossal whole tuna carved fresh among the crowd. To follow, guests can indulge in abundant towers of grilled meats and vegetables from world-renowned Argentine chef Francis Mallmann, known for his open-fire, Asado-style cooking. The unforgettable procession will also blend music, fashion, and art with performers styled in rainbow-couture influenced by the joyful expression of Mesler’s artwork. Under the starlit sky, attendees can anticipate a special live from Richie Hell, inviting guests to let the rhythm move them and to celebrate the transformative power of artistic expression. Guests are encouraged to wear a rainbow-inspired dress code for the evening. 

The gala will commence with Faena Art awarding its annual recipient for best dressed, keeping in mind this year’s theme. The winner will receive special recognition with a complimentary two-night stay at the luxurious Faena Penthouse.

Donations and ticket purchases to support the arts can be made at http://e.givesmart.com/events/Ho4. Individual tickets and VIP package offerings are available.

Funds raised will go directly to supporting the artistic community through Faena Art programming. All tickets are non-refundable.

For more information, visit www.faenaart.org or follow Faena Art on social media for the latest happenings at @FaenaArt.

The Playing For Change Foundation’s 2025 Impact Awards gala was nothing short of spectacular—an evening where music, philanthropy, and global unity converged to raise over $2 million for the foundation’s mission.

On March 15, Miami’s Rubell Museum set the stage for this star-studded affair, honoring The Marley Family, JUANES, and Anitta for their commitment to social change through music. The event, co-chaired by Whitney Kroenke Silverstein & Nick Silverstein; Karolina Kurkova & Archie Drury; and Sandra & Howard Hoffen, was a dazzling display of music’s power to unite and uplift.

Before the awards, guests were whisked into the Capital One Entertainment Garden Party, a lush, Amazon-inspired oasis featuring a Caipirinha Bar, vibrant greenery, and exotic performers—setting the night’s magical tone.

The red carpet sizzled with industry luminaries including Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, Grammy-winning artist Maxwell, supermodel Lais Ribeiro, NBA legend Alonzo Mourning, and Recording Academy President Panos A. Panay, all showing up in support of PFCF’s mission.

The Marley Family, led by Cedella & Rohan Marley, was recognized for carrying forward Bob Marley’s vision of One Love through their work with the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation. Chris Blackwell, a longtime reggae champion, presented the award. In a surprise twist, Blackwell himself received an Impact Award for his lifetime contributions to music and social change. JUANES was honored for his humanitarian work with Fundación Mi Sangre, which has empowered over 2 million people across Colombia. Anitta was celebrated for her advocacy in youth and music education, particularly through her work with Instituto Playing For Change in Brazil.

The evening featured show-stopping performances, with GALE delivering a powerful tribute to JUANES that enthralled the crowd. In an unexpected moment, JUANES himself took the stage for a surprise performance. Skip Marley honored his family’s legacy with an unforgettable set, while youth groups Young Musicians Unite (YMU) & Hip Hop Kidz kept the energy high, reinforcing the night’s theme: music as a force for change.

The celebration continued at Superblue Miami, where Cimafunk turned up the heat with its signature fusion of funk, Afro-Cuban, Latin, and electronic beats, keeping the party alive into the wee hours of the morning.

Among the night’s many philanthropic moments, Jerry Plush won a coveted guitar after an exciting, cut-throat bidding war with his wife, Jessica Plush, and Alitza Weiss made a significant contribution to the foundation’s cause.

Capital One Entertainment, Tiffany & Co., Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Jockey, and SPIN Magazine helped bring this mission-driven night to life, reinforcing Playing For Change Foundation’s impact across 95+ locations in 27 countries.

As the night came to a close, one message remained clear: music is more than a universal language—it’s a tool for transformation.

To learn more or support the cause, visit PlayingForChange.org/Impact.

Photo credit: World Red Eye

Get ready for an unforgettable evening as The Little Lighthouse Foundation (LLF) hosts its 15th annual Hearts & Stars Gala on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Miami Design District’s Jungle Plaza. This year’s “Carnaval do Brasil” theme brings a vibrant fusion of music, culture, and philanthropy, headlined by award-winning rapper and actor Ja Rule. The highly anticipated event will raise funds for LLF’s mission to support children and families in South Florida facing educational, financial, and medical challenges. Guests will be transported to Brazil with immersive décor, high-energy beats, and a lively atmosphere.

The night promises an electric experience with a giant “Feira” tent, replicating Brazil’s iconic street markets, handcrafted cocktails at the Nossa Caipirinha Lounge, and top-tier spirits like Ja Rule’s Amber & Opal whiskey, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Casamigos. Guests will indulge in gourmet bites from acclaimed South Florida restaurants such as Pubbelly Sushi, Paperfish, RED Steakhouse, Dukanoo, STK Steakhouse, and more. The evening will also honor Udonis Haslem with the prestigious Shining Light Award for his community impact. Secure your spot for this unforgettable night of entertainment, luxury, and giving at HeartsAndStarsGala.com, with VIP experiences available for an elevated celebration.