In case you didn’t hear, the 2017 Beaux Arts Bash was a smashing success! On Saturday, December 9, the Parkway Central Library was transformed for the Free Library’s biggest fundraiser of the year. This year’s theme embraced the Free Library’s historic past on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the iconic Beaux Arts architecture of Parkway Central.

Though the weather outside was frightful, the company was just delightful. More than 350 of Philadelphia’s most glamourous movers and shakers helped us raise nearly $510,000 for the Library’s programs—more than any previous gala in our history.

A remarkable $60,000 was raised for the Prison Services Program during our live auction, hosted by the gregarious former Denver Bronco Reggie Rivers.  And after a delectable dinner from Brûlée Catering’s Jean-Marie Lacroix, guests raised another glass and enjoyed the dance floor at the Moulin Rouge After-Party.

The gala is a chance to celebrate all we accomplished in a year at the Library and to build excitement for the year to come! Curious to see Parkway Central’s dramatic transformation during the event? Check out this slideshow of highlights!

Keep an eye out for information on next year’s gala and after-party, which will again be in early December, 2018. All are welcome to purchase a ticket, and all funds raised by this annual event support the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, which makes possible programs and services that advance literacy, guide learning, and inspire curiosity for Philadelphians of all ages.

Thank you again to all of those who made the Beaux Arts Bash a historic night at the Library—your generous spirit and company was an inspiration and a delight!