Formal wear, live music, a silent auction and a buffet.
Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam firefighters are organizing a highly-anticipated event that will act as the return of a popular fundraising event in person for the first time in three years.
And, it hopes to add to a six-figure total both departments have collected in that same span.
The first annual Mayor's Charity Ball is taking place next month with all funds collected to go towards the Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam Firefighters' Charitable Societies and its Nutritional Snack Programs.
Since 2019, the communities brought in more than $225,000 — $140,000 of which were raised from 2020 and 2021 combined when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the event to alter its plans.
"This exciting new event will be taking the place of their well-established and successful Coquitlam Firefighters charity gala, going into its ninth year," the event's description reads.
The Nutritional Snack Program provides healthy breakfasts to children in local elementary schools in hopes of ending the stigma of poverty.
In 2021, more than $80,000 was raised for the programs through the Night on Fire gala, which delivered a party box to participants' homes that included a three-course meal, craft beer and party décor.
The Mayor's Charity Ball is set to feature a festive atmosphere with its black-tie theme, along with live musicians, special presentations and a buffet dinner.
A silent auction and 50/50 raffle will also help raise funds for the local firefighters' charitable societies and their causes.
The inaugural gala is scheduled for Nov. 12, 5:30 to 11 p.m. in the Show Theatre at the Hard Rock Casino in Coquitlam (2080 United Blvd.).
For more information and tickets, you can visit the Mayor's Charity Ball page on the Coquitlam Firefighters Charitable Society's website.
