Social/Philanthropic
Robin Hood Foundation Benefit
THE SCOOP: This benefit started by three wealthy Wall Street traders has become one of the hottest tickets in town. Last year famous names like Elle Macpherson and Meg Ryan showed up to bid on celebrity-donated items and experiences, including a yoga class with Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow, and a series of lunches with business heavies like Warren Buffett and Rupert Murdoch. M.C. Jerry Seinfeld told a few jokes, and the gala raised $13.5 million for educational, hunger relief and youth-training programs.
BEHIND THE SCENES: The Javits Center
was the only space big enough for last year's event, which required almost 300 tables for 10. Event designer Avi Adler's d?cor scheme included a cocktail area with four large tables topped with 20-foot green poles. And the dining room had a black and white, geometric look with black and white patterned tablecloths and moving projections shown on the walls. Glorious Food
catered the bash, Event Associates took care of event management and Robert Plant performed.
THIS YEAR: The foundation's Laurie Fabiano oversees the benefit, and Avi Adler will be back at the Javits Center sometime in May
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Magazine
The National Magazine Awards
THE SCOOP: No one cares much about the meal at this luncheon; the top magazine editors show up for the gossip and to see who wins the American Society of Magazine Editors' coveted awards. Last year the Waldorf=Astoria even pre-set the entire meal--smoked salmon over couscous and tiramisu--to save time.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Image Zone put together a set with stretched fabric and produced snazzy videos showing the nominees. Ellen Ryder Communications handled PR.
THIS YEAR: At the Waldorf. May 1
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Social/Philanthropic
Women's Committee of the Central Park Conservancy's Frederick Law Olmsted Awards Luncheon
THE SCOOP: "Women in fabulous hats" is how social columnist R. Couri Hay describes this benefit. Joan Rivers, Blaine Trump, Deborah Norville and Robin Gerstner (wife of IBM chief Lou Gerstner) have all attended. Now in its 20th year, the luncheon raises funds for the park.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Held annually in the Conservatory Garden--the only formal garden in Central Park--the luncheon was catered by Glorious Food last year. Claude Barilleaux, director of the Women's Committee, runs the event.
THIS YEAR: As always, in the garden. May 1
Food/Restaurant/Hospitality/Social
James Beard Foundation Awards
THE SCOOP: The so-called "Oscars of the food world" draw the nation's food elite--chefs, restaurateurs, food journalists and every major foodie in New York. After a three-hour ceremony, guests feast on food by chefs from around the country. "They descend on the tables like vultures!" one restaurant rep sniffs.
BEHIND THE SCENES: The venue is usually the Marriott Marquis, because it has enough room for the party and kitchen space for the chefs. M. Young Communications has done the PR since 1991, and Overland Entertainment has produced the show five times. Last year Esca hosted an after-party.
THIS YEAR: After the foundation's journalism awards on May 3 at the Grand Hyatt, the food awards are on May 6
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Social/Philanthropic/Publishing
Literacy Partners' Gala Evening of Readings
THE SCOOP: Gossip maven Liz Smith's pet charity hosts this black-tie dinner dance, its most important fund-raiser of the year. Last year authors Ann Beattie, Tom Brokaw, Robert Caro, Barbara Goldsmith
and David Sedaris all read from their works for 650 guests.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Held at the Vivian Beaumont Theater at Lincoln Center and the Promenade of the New York State Theater last year, with catering by Robbins Wolfe Eventeurs, floral design by Robert Isabell and event management by Buckley Hall Events.
THIS YEAR: Buckley Hall Events will be back at the Beaumont. May 6
Advertising
One Club's One Show
THE SCOOP: For the New York advertising community's creative elite, the One Show is the most prestigious awards competition in the business--and, says one former AdAge staffer, "harder to win and more rigorously judged than the Clios." The event is hosted by the One Club, a 27-year-old nonprofit designed to "recognize and promote creative excellence in advertising."
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year comedian Al Franken hosted the event at Alice Tully Hall in Lincoln Center.
THIS YEAR: Production company Image Zone will stage the semi-formal event, which is expected to draw 1,200 guests, at the Waldorf=Astoria. May 10
Television
Television Network Upfront Week
THE SCOOP: This is primetime television's big sales week, when the networks trot out the talent and introduce their new fall lineups, and advertisers decide where to spend their bucks.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year NBC execs pitched at Radio City Music Hall before a party at Rockefeller Plaza. CBS presented at Carnegie Hall and toasted at Tavern on the Green. ABC went to the New Amsterdam Theater and Bryant Park Grill, the WB took the Sheraton,
Fox boarded the Intrepid and UPN went to Madison Square Garden.
THIS YEAR: The week of May 13
Social/Philanthropic/Cultural
American Ballet Theatre Spring Gala
THE SCOOP: ABT's elegant dinner dance "has always had a huge amount of cache," says social columnist R. Couri Hay, especially with names like Brooke Astor, Nan Kempner, Caroline Kennedy, Jacqueline Onassis and Blaine Trump attached. The event kicks off ABT's season and features "high-powered grazing," New York magazine says.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year John Banta, ABT's director of special events, used Tansey Design Associates for d?cor, and Restaurant Associates catered the gala.
THIS YEAR: At the Metropolitan Opera
House and the Tent at Lincoln
Center. May 13
Television
Daytime Emmys
THE SCOOP: Most daytime TV is produced in New York, and these high-profile awards show the strong bond between the industry and the city. Now in its 29th year, the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences' awards draw 6,000 actors, producers, network executives, advertisers and television aficionados.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Dick Clark has been the awards' executive producer for five years. Last year Kathie Lee ("Reege!") Gifford hosted the show at Radio City Music Hall, with a reception at the Sheraton.
THIS YEAR: In the theater at Madison Square Garden, after a reception for 2,000 in the rotunda (where the Knicks play). May 17
Art/Design
International Contemporary Furniture Fair
THE SCOOP: Now in its 14th year, this furniture fair features exhibitors from 24 countries and includes conferences and discussion panels tackling everything from the state of design to marketing. Showcasing furniture, textiles, lighting and a variety of products and materials, it's a key event for architects, interior designers and other trade buyers. As the only show of its kind in the U.S., the fair follows April's Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan, and carries equal prestige.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Managed and produced by George Little Management, ICFF has been at the Javits Center since its inception.
THIS YEAR: The fair returns to Javits. May 18 to 21
Food/Public
Ninth Avenue International Food Festival
THE SCOOP: This enormous ethnic food festival is a giant food-based benefit that pulls in money for neighborhood organizations. The two-day event also showcases the neighborhood's food purveyors and restaurants in order to bolster commercial activity in the area. According to the Ninth Avenue Association (which sponsors the festival), it draws one million visitors each day.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Founded in 1973, the festival was created by area merchants Evelyn Regino, Lili Fable and Maria Gardini.
THIS YEAR: On Ninth Avenue from 37th to 57th Streets. May 18 to 19
Food/Restaurant/Hospitality/Social
Share Our Strength's Taste of the Nation
THE SCOOP: This foodie-filled fund-raiser is part of a 70-city nationwide tasting benefit tour that brings together local chefs to prepare a night of fine cuisine. SOS then doles out the proceeds to local hunger charities. The New York stop is also a test of chefs' reputations: One food insider told us, "If you weren't asked to participate, you'd have to wonder why."
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year's benefit at the Grand Hyatt raised more than $300,000. Last year Yipeee produced an after-party exclusively for the V.I.P.s and chefs, who cooked and sweated to serve more than 900 attendees. KB Network News did the PR, and will do so again this year.
THIS YEAR: At Bridgewaters. May 22
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Social/Philanthropic/Art
MoMA's Party in the Garden
THE SCOOP: Now in its 34th year, the Museum of Modern Art's biggest benefit draws a crowd of society, art, entertainment and business types. Past chairs have included Mercedes and Sid Bass, Agnes Gund, Philip Johnson and Ronald and Jo Carole Lauder, and honorees include such prominent New Yorkers as Kitty Carlisle Hart and David Rockefeller.
BEHIND THE SCENES: The party has traditionally taken over the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden, and MoMA's massive construction project didn't stop the party from happening last year. Event designer Robert Isabell erected a tent from Starr Tents on the concrete and rubble in the former space of the garden, and hung an array of multicolored lanterns from the ceiling for the cocktail area. Dinner was served in the former cafe space, where Isabell leaned tall poplar tree branches against the walls, surrounding guests as if they were truly in a garden.Glorious Food was the caterer.
THIS YEAR: The construction will push the soiree to the Metropolitan Pavilion and the Altman Building. May 29
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Theater
Tony Awards
THE SCOOP: The American Theatre Wing's awards ceremony is the city's biggest celebration of theater talent.
BEHIND THE SCENES: After The Producers' Matthew Broderick and Nathan Lane hosted last year's awards at Radio City Music Hall, 2,000 guests walked to the Tonys Ball at the Sheraton New York, where Macres 57th Street Corp. put flowers on mirrors to echo Radio City's art-deco look. Tobak-Dantchik Events & Promotions produced the ball, and Keith Sherman & Associates has done the Tonys' PR since 1987.
THIS YEAR: At Radio City. June 2
Hospitality/Travel
New York University's International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference
THE SCOOP: The hospitality industry's preeminent conference draws an international audience of 1,800 attendees, and attracts a variety of investors and manager-owners. It's solid because the planning committee, which includes top executives from Deutsche Bank, Cendant, Loews Hotels and Ernst & Young, have the right connections to get top speakers.
BEHIND THE SCENES: The conference outgrew its original location at the Waldorf=Astoria and is now held at the Marriott Marquis. Production Resources Inc. helps with production.
THIS YEAR: At the Marriott Marquis. June 2 to 4
Advertising/Marketing/Art
Association of Independent Commercial Producers Show Gala
THE SCOOP: Well-attended and eagerly anticipated, the AICP show is an hour-long screening of exceptional commercials, followed by a black-tie cocktail reception and buffet dinner. Produced with MoMA, it's "a top bash in the business," according to one AdAge reporter, and brings in more than 1,500 cognoscenti in the art, advertising and production communities. Honored work goes into MoMA's permanent collection.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year AICP director of events Ileana Montalvo hired Abigail Kirsch to cater the party at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Great Hall.
THIS YEAR: Montalvo and Kirsch team up again at the Met. June 3
Food/Restaurant/Hospitality/Social
Citymeals-on-Wheels Great American Chefs' Tribute to James Beard
THE SCOOP: Citymeals' biggest event of the year draws New York's food elite for tastings from the best chefs in the country, including out-of-towners Alice Waters, Wolfgang Puck and Stephen Pyles.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Director of special events Lynn McGuire will spearhead this year's patriotic "Sea to Shining Sea"-themed event. Last year's Roaring 20's-themed event featured d?cor from Matthew David and Flowers by Reuven, rentals from Party Rental, and PR by Linden Alschuler & Kaplan.
THIS YEAR: At Rockefeller Plaza. June 3
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Advertising/Marketing
New York American Marketing Association's Effie Awards
THE SCOOP: The Effies are all about results--since 1968 the NYAMA has rewarded ad campaigns that earn more cash than flash. Top ad agency execs and their clients attend the black-tie cocktail reception, dinner and awards ceremony.
BEHIND THE SCENES: For the past six years the Effies have been held at the Marriott Marquis.
THIS YEAR: Back at the Marriott Marquis. June 5
Public Relations
Public Relations Society of America's Silver Anvil Awards
THE SCOOP: The premium awards show for PR pros since its inception in 1946, this black-tie-optional cocktail reception, awards presentation and dinner event honors outstanding achievement in strategic public relations programming, and attracts nearly 500 PR execs.
BEHIND THE SCENES: PRSA special events director Karla Voth chose to stage the ceremony at the Equitable Center last year; Lyn's Cafe Caterers fed the crowd.
THIS YEAR: Lyn's Caf? Caterers will be back at the Equitable Center. June 6
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Sports
Belmont Stakes
THE SCOOP: The oldest of the Triple Crown races (this year is number 134) is called "the graveyard of the Triple Crown" and the "test of champions," thanks to its one-and-a-half-mile length and the fact that it's the last Triple Crown race of the season. The Stakes drew 73,000 spectators last year.
BEHIND THE SCENES: The blanket of white carnations that adorns the winner is created by Belmont's in-house gardeners. Pre-event festivities include a "Broadway at Belmont" performance hosted by the New York Racing Association, and nearby Garden City's festival on the eve of the race.
THIS YEAR: At Belmont Park. June 8
Public
Puerto Rican Day Parade
THE SCOOP: Since it began in 1958, this parade--a celebration of Puerto Rican pride--has become one of the largest parades in the city. Colorful and extremely festive, last year's parade included grand marshal Marc Anthony and an appearance by Miss Universe Denise Quinones.
BEHIND THE SCENES: More than 90 floats--provided by Bond Parade Floats--are launched every year. In 2001 about 100,000 people participated in the parade. Mike Laino of Festive Productions has produced the parade for the past three years, and works on most of the 12 related events that lead up to the parade beginning in March.
THIS YEAR: Begins on Fifth Avenue at 44th Street and goes north to 68th Street. June 9
Marketing
Direct Marketing Days in New York
THE SCOOP: What began as a lunchtime seminar 37 years ago has evolved into what one marketer calls "the definitive New York direct marketing trade show" and draws more than 6,000 attendees for the three-day conference and expo of nearly 600 exhibitors. The show--whose slogan is "Get Street Smart in the City that Invented It"--included conferences on topics such as alternate media, brand loyalty, e-commerce, fund-raising, financial services and telemarketing.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year's event was at the Hilton New York, but thanks to growing attendance the event has moved to the Javits Center.
THIS YEAR: At Javits. June 17 to 19
Social
Amfar's Boathouse Rocks Benefit
THE SCOOP: Pretty youngsters--celebs, socialites and unfamous singletons alike--have flocked to the Boathouse in Central Park for this hip benefit for the American Foundation for AIDS Research. Last year 1,000 of them ate, danced and bid on silent auction items. The evening raised more than $260,000.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year, the cuisine came from restaurants including Canteen, DB, Monkey Bar, Mercer Kitchen and Next Door Nobu.Temporary tattoos from Temptu added a fun touch.
THIS YEAR: The Boathouse stopped rocking for Amfar when it came under new management; the party moves to Tavern on the Green, with a new name, "Boathouse Rocks the Tavern." June 17
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Fashion/Retail
The CFDA Awards
THE SCOOP: Seventh Avenue's heavyweights come out to schmooze and toast each other at the Council of Fashion Designers of America's awards.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Much to the relief of those who suffered through 1999's six-hour ceremony, last year's host Sandra Bernhard and producers Kevin Krier and Associates kept the show to 90 minutes. Held at Avery Fisher Hall, the awards had dramatic projections by Scharff Weisberg on a white, minimalist set. The pre-party and after-party were in a tent outside with decor by Avi Adler, lighting by Lux Lighting, food by Restaurant Associates and music from DJs Beverly Bond and Mark Ronson and hip-hop artist Usher.
THIS YEAR: June 23
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Technology
TECHXNY/PC Expo
THE SCOOP: One of New York's top technology events, PC Expo (part of TECHXNY technology exchange week) is now in its 20th year, and draws 40,000 to 50,000 IT professionals.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Pepcom puts on a business casual, press-only technology showcase the night before the show to give journalists a sneak peak at new products and trends. PC Expo is produced by CMP Media.
THIS YEAR: At the Javits Center.
June 25 to 27
Public
Gay Pride March
THE SCOOP: Since the Christopher Street Liberation Committee organized a march in 1970, the event has grown to a flamboyant parade of drag queens, go-go dancers, political activists and politicians who sashay down Fifth Avenue
and through the West Village.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Current organizer Heritage of Pride estimates that it drew more than 250,000 participants and 350,000 spectators last year. A week of related festivities include a rally at Bryant Park, a dance and a festival.
THIS YEAR: The floats launch June 30
Food/Hospitality
Fancy Food Show
THE SCOOP: Last year 2,200 exhibitors from 40 countries offered samples of everything from cured olives and hunks of cheese to gourmet chocolate and vegetarian caviar, and more than 22,000 attendees from the specialty food trade gobbled them up. (Many of them may have felt a little queasy by the end of the day.)
BEHIND THE SCENES: Put on by the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade, the Fancy Food Show began in the Astor Hotel's ballroom in 1955. The show now includes the NASFT product awards, and awards for retailers
began in 2001.
THIS YEAR: At the Javits Center.
July 7 to 9
Events in January and February 2002
Events in March and April 2002
Events in August, September and October 2002
Events in November and December 2002
Robin Hood Foundation Benefit
THE SCOOP: This benefit started by three wealthy Wall Street traders has become one of the hottest tickets in town. Last year famous names like Elle Macpherson and Meg Ryan showed up to bid on celebrity-donated items and experiences, including a yoga class with Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow, and a series of lunches with business heavies like Warren Buffett and Rupert Murdoch. M.C. Jerry Seinfeld told a few jokes, and the gala raised $13.5 million for educational, hunger relief and youth-training programs.
BEHIND THE SCENES: The Javits Center
was the only space big enough for last year's event, which required almost 300 tables for 10. Event designer Avi Adler's d?cor scheme included a cocktail area with four large tables topped with 20-foot green poles. And the dining room had a black and white, geometric look with black and white patterned tablecloths and moving projections shown on the walls. Glorious Food
catered the bash, Event Associates took care of event management and Robert Plant performed.
THIS YEAR: The foundation's Laurie Fabiano oversees the benefit, and Avi Adler will be back at the Javits Center sometime in May
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Magazine
The National Magazine Awards
THE SCOOP: No one cares much about the meal at this luncheon; the top magazine editors show up for the gossip and to see who wins the American Society of Magazine Editors' coveted awards. Last year the Waldorf=Astoria even pre-set the entire meal--smoked salmon over couscous and tiramisu--to save time.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Image Zone put together a set with stretched fabric and produced snazzy videos showing the nominees. Ellen Ryder Communications handled PR.
THIS YEAR: At the Waldorf. May 1
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Social/Philanthropic
Women's Committee of the Central Park Conservancy's Frederick Law Olmsted Awards Luncheon
THE SCOOP: "Women in fabulous hats" is how social columnist R. Couri Hay describes this benefit. Joan Rivers, Blaine Trump, Deborah Norville and Robin Gerstner (wife of IBM chief Lou Gerstner) have all attended. Now in its 20th year, the luncheon raises funds for the park.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Held annually in the Conservatory Garden--the only formal garden in Central Park--the luncheon was catered by Glorious Food last year. Claude Barilleaux, director of the Women's Committee, runs the event.
THIS YEAR: As always, in the garden. May 1
Food/Restaurant/Hospitality/Social
James Beard Foundation Awards
THE SCOOP: The so-called "Oscars of the food world" draw the nation's food elite--chefs, restaurateurs, food journalists and every major foodie in New York. After a three-hour ceremony, guests feast on food by chefs from around the country. "They descend on the tables like vultures!" one restaurant rep sniffs.
BEHIND THE SCENES: The venue is usually the Marriott Marquis, because it has enough room for the party and kitchen space for the chefs. M. Young Communications has done the PR since 1991, and Overland Entertainment has produced the show five times. Last year Esca hosted an after-party.
THIS YEAR: After the foundation's journalism awards on May 3 at the Grand Hyatt, the food awards are on May 6
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Social/Philanthropic/Publishing
Literacy Partners' Gala Evening of Readings
THE SCOOP: Gossip maven Liz Smith's pet charity hosts this black-tie dinner dance, its most important fund-raiser of the year. Last year authors Ann Beattie, Tom Brokaw, Robert Caro, Barbara Goldsmith
and David Sedaris all read from their works for 650 guests.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Held at the Vivian Beaumont Theater at Lincoln Center and the Promenade of the New York State Theater last year, with catering by Robbins Wolfe Eventeurs, floral design by Robert Isabell and event management by Buckley Hall Events.
THIS YEAR: Buckley Hall Events will be back at the Beaumont. May 6
Advertising
One Club's One Show
THE SCOOP: For the New York advertising community's creative elite, the One Show is the most prestigious awards competition in the business--and, says one former AdAge staffer, "harder to win and more rigorously judged than the Clios." The event is hosted by the One Club, a 27-year-old nonprofit designed to "recognize and promote creative excellence in advertising."
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year comedian Al Franken hosted the event at Alice Tully Hall in Lincoln Center.
THIS YEAR: Production company Image Zone will stage the semi-formal event, which is expected to draw 1,200 guests, at the Waldorf=Astoria. May 10
Television
Television Network Upfront Week
THE SCOOP: This is primetime television's big sales week, when the networks trot out the talent and introduce their new fall lineups, and advertisers decide where to spend their bucks.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year NBC execs pitched at Radio City Music Hall before a party at Rockefeller Plaza. CBS presented at Carnegie Hall and toasted at Tavern on the Green. ABC went to the New Amsterdam Theater and Bryant Park Grill, the WB took the Sheraton,
Fox boarded the Intrepid and UPN went to Madison Square Garden.
THIS YEAR: The week of May 13
Social/Philanthropic/Cultural
American Ballet Theatre Spring Gala
THE SCOOP: ABT's elegant dinner dance "has always had a huge amount of cache," says social columnist R. Couri Hay, especially with names like Brooke Astor, Nan Kempner, Caroline Kennedy, Jacqueline Onassis and Blaine Trump attached. The event kicks off ABT's season and features "high-powered grazing," New York magazine says.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year John Banta, ABT's director of special events, used Tansey Design Associates for d?cor, and Restaurant Associates catered the gala.
THIS YEAR: At the Metropolitan Opera
House and the Tent at Lincoln
Center. May 13
Television
Daytime Emmys
THE SCOOP: Most daytime TV is produced in New York, and these high-profile awards show the strong bond between the industry and the city. Now in its 29th year, the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences' awards draw 6,000 actors, producers, network executives, advertisers and television aficionados.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Dick Clark has been the awards' executive producer for five years. Last year Kathie Lee ("Reege!") Gifford hosted the show at Radio City Music Hall, with a reception at the Sheraton.
THIS YEAR: In the theater at Madison Square Garden, after a reception for 2,000 in the rotunda (where the Knicks play). May 17
Art/Design
International Contemporary Furniture Fair
THE SCOOP: Now in its 14th year, this furniture fair features exhibitors from 24 countries and includes conferences and discussion panels tackling everything from the state of design to marketing. Showcasing furniture, textiles, lighting and a variety of products and materials, it's a key event for architects, interior designers and other trade buyers. As the only show of its kind in the U.S., the fair follows April's Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan, and carries equal prestige.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Managed and produced by George Little Management, ICFF has been at the Javits Center since its inception.
THIS YEAR: The fair returns to Javits. May 18 to 21
Food/Public
Ninth Avenue International Food Festival
THE SCOOP: This enormous ethnic food festival is a giant food-based benefit that pulls in money for neighborhood organizations. The two-day event also showcases the neighborhood's food purveyors and restaurants in order to bolster commercial activity in the area. According to the Ninth Avenue Association (which sponsors the festival), it draws one million visitors each day.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Founded in 1973, the festival was created by area merchants Evelyn Regino, Lili Fable and Maria Gardini.
THIS YEAR: On Ninth Avenue from 37th to 57th Streets. May 18 to 19
Food/Restaurant/Hospitality/Social
Share Our Strength's Taste of the Nation
THE SCOOP: This foodie-filled fund-raiser is part of a 70-city nationwide tasting benefit tour that brings together local chefs to prepare a night of fine cuisine. SOS then doles out the proceeds to local hunger charities. The New York stop is also a test of chefs' reputations: One food insider told us, "If you weren't asked to participate, you'd have to wonder why."
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year's benefit at the Grand Hyatt raised more than $300,000. Last year Yipeee produced an after-party exclusively for the V.I.P.s and chefs, who cooked and sweated to serve more than 900 attendees. KB Network News did the PR, and will do so again this year.
THIS YEAR: At Bridgewaters. May 22
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Social/Philanthropic/Art
MoMA's Party in the Garden
THE SCOOP: Now in its 34th year, the Museum of Modern Art's biggest benefit draws a crowd of society, art, entertainment and business types. Past chairs have included Mercedes and Sid Bass, Agnes Gund, Philip Johnson and Ronald and Jo Carole Lauder, and honorees include such prominent New Yorkers as Kitty Carlisle Hart and David Rockefeller.
BEHIND THE SCENES: The party has traditionally taken over the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden, and MoMA's massive construction project didn't stop the party from happening last year. Event designer Robert Isabell erected a tent from Starr Tents on the concrete and rubble in the former space of the garden, and hung an array of multicolored lanterns from the ceiling for the cocktail area. Dinner was served in the former cafe space, where Isabell leaned tall poplar tree branches against the walls, surrounding guests as if they were truly in a garden.Glorious Food was the caterer.
THIS YEAR: The construction will push the soiree to the Metropolitan Pavilion and the Altman Building. May 29
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Theater
Tony Awards
THE SCOOP: The American Theatre Wing's awards ceremony is the city's biggest celebration of theater talent.
BEHIND THE SCENES: After The Producers' Matthew Broderick and Nathan Lane hosted last year's awards at Radio City Music Hall, 2,000 guests walked to the Tonys Ball at the Sheraton New York, where Macres 57th Street Corp. put flowers on mirrors to echo Radio City's art-deco look. Tobak-Dantchik Events & Promotions produced the ball, and Keith Sherman & Associates has done the Tonys' PR since 1987.
THIS YEAR: At Radio City. June 2
Hospitality/Travel
New York University's International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference
THE SCOOP: The hospitality industry's preeminent conference draws an international audience of 1,800 attendees, and attracts a variety of investors and manager-owners. It's solid because the planning committee, which includes top executives from Deutsche Bank, Cendant, Loews Hotels and Ernst & Young, have the right connections to get top speakers.
BEHIND THE SCENES: The conference outgrew its original location at the Waldorf=Astoria and is now held at the Marriott Marquis. Production Resources Inc. helps with production.
THIS YEAR: At the Marriott Marquis. June 2 to 4
Advertising/Marketing/Art
Association of Independent Commercial Producers Show Gala
THE SCOOP: Well-attended and eagerly anticipated, the AICP show is an hour-long screening of exceptional commercials, followed by a black-tie cocktail reception and buffet dinner. Produced with MoMA, it's "a top bash in the business," according to one AdAge reporter, and brings in more than 1,500 cognoscenti in the art, advertising and production communities. Honored work goes into MoMA's permanent collection.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year AICP director of events Ileana Montalvo hired Abigail Kirsch to cater the party at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Great Hall.
THIS YEAR: Montalvo and Kirsch team up again at the Met. June 3
Food/Restaurant/Hospitality/Social
Citymeals-on-Wheels Great American Chefs' Tribute to James Beard
THE SCOOP: Citymeals' biggest event of the year draws New York's food elite for tastings from the best chefs in the country, including out-of-towners Alice Waters, Wolfgang Puck and Stephen Pyles.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Director of special events Lynn McGuire will spearhead this year's patriotic "Sea to Shining Sea"-themed event. Last year's Roaring 20's-themed event featured d?cor from Matthew David and Flowers by Reuven, rentals from Party Rental, and PR by Linden Alschuler & Kaplan.
THIS YEAR: At Rockefeller Plaza. June 3
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Advertising/Marketing
New York American Marketing Association's Effie Awards
THE SCOOP: The Effies are all about results--since 1968 the NYAMA has rewarded ad campaigns that earn more cash than flash. Top ad agency execs and their clients attend the black-tie cocktail reception, dinner and awards ceremony.
BEHIND THE SCENES: For the past six years the Effies have been held at the Marriott Marquis.
THIS YEAR: Back at the Marriott Marquis. June 5
Public Relations
Public Relations Society of America's Silver Anvil Awards
THE SCOOP: The premium awards show for PR pros since its inception in 1946, this black-tie-optional cocktail reception, awards presentation and dinner event honors outstanding achievement in strategic public relations programming, and attracts nearly 500 PR execs.
BEHIND THE SCENES: PRSA special events director Karla Voth chose to stage the ceremony at the Equitable Center last year; Lyn's Cafe Caterers fed the crowd.
THIS YEAR: Lyn's Caf? Caterers will be back at the Equitable Center. June 6
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Sports
Belmont Stakes
THE SCOOP: The oldest of the Triple Crown races (this year is number 134) is called "the graveyard of the Triple Crown" and the "test of champions," thanks to its one-and-a-half-mile length and the fact that it's the last Triple Crown race of the season. The Stakes drew 73,000 spectators last year.
BEHIND THE SCENES: The blanket of white carnations that adorns the winner is created by Belmont's in-house gardeners. Pre-event festivities include a "Broadway at Belmont" performance hosted by the New York Racing Association, and nearby Garden City's festival on the eve of the race.
THIS YEAR: At Belmont Park. June 8
Public
Puerto Rican Day Parade
THE SCOOP: Since it began in 1958, this parade--a celebration of Puerto Rican pride--has become one of the largest parades in the city. Colorful and extremely festive, last year's parade included grand marshal Marc Anthony and an appearance by Miss Universe Denise Quinones.
BEHIND THE SCENES: More than 90 floats--provided by Bond Parade Floats--are launched every year. In 2001 about 100,000 people participated in the parade. Mike Laino of Festive Productions has produced the parade for the past three years, and works on most of the 12 related events that lead up to the parade beginning in March.
THIS YEAR: Begins on Fifth Avenue at 44th Street and goes north to 68th Street. June 9
Marketing
Direct Marketing Days in New York
THE SCOOP: What began as a lunchtime seminar 37 years ago has evolved into what one marketer calls "the definitive New York direct marketing trade show" and draws more than 6,000 attendees for the three-day conference and expo of nearly 600 exhibitors. The show--whose slogan is "Get Street Smart in the City that Invented It"--included conferences on topics such as alternate media, brand loyalty, e-commerce, fund-raising, financial services and telemarketing.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year's event was at the Hilton New York, but thanks to growing attendance the event has moved to the Javits Center.
THIS YEAR: At Javits. June 17 to 19
Social
Amfar's Boathouse Rocks Benefit
THE SCOOP: Pretty youngsters--celebs, socialites and unfamous singletons alike--have flocked to the Boathouse in Central Park for this hip benefit for the American Foundation for AIDS Research. Last year 1,000 of them ate, danced and bid on silent auction items. The evening raised more than $260,000.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Last year, the cuisine came from restaurants including Canteen, DB, Monkey Bar, Mercer Kitchen and Next Door Nobu.Temporary tattoos from Temptu added a fun touch.
THIS YEAR: The Boathouse stopped rocking for Amfar when it came under new management; the party moves to Tavern on the Green, with a new name, "Boathouse Rocks the Tavern." June 17
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Fashion/Retail
The CFDA Awards
THE SCOOP: Seventh Avenue's heavyweights come out to schmooze and toast each other at the Council of Fashion Designers of America's awards.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Much to the relief of those who suffered through 1999's six-hour ceremony, last year's host Sandra Bernhard and producers Kevin Krier and Associates kept the show to 90 minutes. Held at Avery Fisher Hall, the awards had dramatic projections by Scharff Weisberg on a white, minimalist set. The pre-party and after-party were in a tent outside with decor by Avi Adler, lighting by Lux Lighting, food by Restaurant Associates and music from DJs Beverly Bond and Mark Ronson and hip-hop artist Usher.
THIS YEAR: June 23
Read our coverage of last year's event...
Technology
TECHXNY/PC Expo
THE SCOOP: One of New York's top technology events, PC Expo (part of TECHXNY technology exchange week) is now in its 20th year, and draws 40,000 to 50,000 IT professionals.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Pepcom puts on a business casual, press-only technology showcase the night before the show to give journalists a sneak peak at new products and trends. PC Expo is produced by CMP Media.
THIS YEAR: At the Javits Center.
June 25 to 27
Public
Gay Pride March
THE SCOOP: Since the Christopher Street Liberation Committee organized a march in 1970, the event has grown to a flamboyant parade of drag queens, go-go dancers, political activists and politicians who sashay down Fifth Avenue
and through the West Village.
BEHIND THE SCENES: Current organizer Heritage of Pride estimates that it drew more than 250,000 participants and 350,000 spectators last year. A week of related festivities include a rally at Bryant Park, a dance and a festival.
THIS YEAR: The floats launch June 30
Food/Hospitality
Fancy Food Show
THE SCOOP: Last year 2,200 exhibitors from 40 countries offered samples of everything from cured olives and hunks of cheese to gourmet chocolate and vegetarian caviar, and more than 22,000 attendees from the specialty food trade gobbled them up. (Many of them may have felt a little queasy by the end of the day.)
BEHIND THE SCENES: Put on by the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade, the Fancy Food Show began in the Astor Hotel's ballroom in 1955. The show now includes the NASFT product awards, and awards for retailers
began in 2001.
THIS YEAR: At the Javits Center.
July 7 to 9
Events in January and February 2002
Events in March and April 2002
Events in August, September and October 2002
Events in November and December 2002
Avi Adler's decor for the dinner portion of the Robin Hood Foundation's annual gala was a vision in black and white, with lots of geometric patterns.
For MoMA's Party in the Gardent, which was held in the former Cafe Etc. space, Robert Isabell suspended pink lanterns from the ceiling and leaned tall poplar tree branches against the walls.
The Gay Pride March is a flamboyant parade of drag queens, go-go dancers, political activists and politicians who sashay down Fifth Avenue and through the West Village.
