The Best Parties

By: Laura Snyder

Published On: December 28, 2011

As I’ve spent a great portion of the past year attending parties, writing about parties, looking at pictures from parties, talking about parties, and editing articles about parties, looking back on 2011, I can’t help but see the year in terms of . . . well, parties. So in the tradition of New Year’s “Best of” lists, I offer up my own with reflections on the best of 2011.

Jan: Carnevale. With arias from The Marriage of Figaro and Carmen performed before an elaborate 19th-century Sevillian city façade, the Kentucky Opera teased its 2011 season and put on one of the best parties of the year. Carnevale 2012 will take place 1/21.

Feb: Lobster Feast. Maybe it’s the costumes, maybe the lobster, or maybe just the opportunity to revel in the fact that Actors Theatre rocks the international stage right here in Louisville. Whatever the case, the combination is right. Lobster Feast 2012 will take place 1/28.

March: The Humana Festival Cocktail Parties. As theater agents, critics, producers, playwrights, and directors make their annual pilgrimage to Louisville for a three-day marathon of plays, Actors Theatre Board Members graciously open their homes with welcoming cocktail parties where the conversation is rich enough to inspire another new play.

April: The Fashion Shows. In April, when all is pre-Derby anticipation, the fashion impresarios don’t disappoint. While I am among the minority who thinks Louisville’s celebrity worship at Derby time is misguided, I believe there are instances when celebrities serve us well, like when Glasscock Boutique brings in Christian Siriano to debut his new collection and Carson Kressley to emcee Runway and Rescue.

May: The Rose Collar Derby Soiree. Of all the parties that filled my calendar last Derby, this party at Majid’s was my favorite. It delighted, educated, and inspired (and without so much as a hint of celebrity worship). All money raised was donated to the Rose Collar Foundation, which seeks to end sex trafficking.

June: Denim & Diamonds. Ah, summer, post-Derby, it’s time to ditch the black tie and enjoy some casual un-gala fun. Raising funds for The Parkinson Support Center of Kentuckiana, Denim & Diamonds delivered as guests attired in denim, and, yes, diamonds, kicked up their heels at Locust Grove. I’m hoping those amazing antler chandeliers also make a reprise on the first Friday in June.

July: The Forecastle Festival. Founded in 2002 in Tyler Park, Forecastle has grown to be one of the country’s “Top 15 Outdoor Festivals,” not only bringing the best musicians, but making good on its slogan: “Music. Art. Activism.” 2012 will be the first year the festival will be a platform for the newly announced Forecastle Foundation. July 13 – 15, you can find me at Waterfront Park.

Aug: Bourbon and Bluegrass with Barry for Mary. This party is a lot like your favorite backyard barbeque except that the bourbon is swoon worthy, the bluegrass is some of the best music you’ll hear anywhere, and the price of admission is a donation to The Mary Byron Project, which protects victims of domestic violence.

Sept: The St. James Gala. Drinking champagne by the fountain alit in the moonlight is one thing you must do. In terms of venue, sincerity, and significance to the city, The St. James Gala is unbeatable.

Oct: Bourbon Bash. The best party favor of 2011 was a musical treat by Kentucky’s own Ben Sollee. Lending his talents to support other regional artists, Sollee gave a heartbreaking, authentic performance that was a true tribute to the mission of KMAC.

Nov: The Festival of Faiths Gala and Signature Chefs Auction. These two events encompass a couple of the main reasons I chose to make this city my home: not only is Louisville inclusive and diverse, but it also boasts one of the best food scenes in the country.

Dec: The NFocus New Faces of Philanthropy Party. You are invited to help us plan next year’s event by nominating someone you think should be one of our 2012 New Faces!