The show opened with a headline-grabbing performance by Wicked's Oscar-nominated stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, featuring songs from The Wizard of Oz and The Wiz before ending with a rendition of "Defying Gravity" that earned a standing ovation from the audience.Photo: Trae Patton/The Academy. Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
LOS ANGELES—How do you impress a crowd of A-listers who have truly seen it all? That's the challenge event professionals are faced with during award season each year—and never more so than surrounding the Oscars, which this year took place on March 2 following a tumultuous season marked by devastating wildfires.
Beyond the ceremony itself and its glitzy Governors Ball after-party, one of the night’s most must-attend events was the ultra-exclusive Vanity Fair Oscars party, which took place in a custom-designed space in Beverly Hills and was hosted by editor-in-chief Radhika Jones. This year’s 130-foot gold- and silver-striped carpet featured 10-foot-tall Vanity Fair silver lettering floating in front of a striped gradient backdrop in pastel yellow, orange, and red tones.
Guests were then directed through a serpentine hall of mirrors into the main party space: a sunken upholstered living room, reminiscent of 1960s Hollywood parties—complete with a 5-foot disco ball hanging overhead. The event featured scenic design by BWArchitects and WTCooper, flowers from Kally Ellis, and lighting from Woodroffe Bassett Design. Click through the post below for a glimpse inside:
But of course, Vanity Fair was far from the only party in town; Hollywood's elite spent the week party-hopping, stopping by glamorous bashes from Universal Pictures, Searchlight Pictures, ESSENCE, the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and many more. Scroll down for photos and event design details from the week's best events.
The 97th Academy Awards Telecast
The 97th Oscars ceremony took place at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood. Executive producer and showrunner Raj Kapoor worked with director Hamish Hamilton, production designers Misty Buckley and Alana Billingsley, lighting designer Bob Dickinson, and music director Michael Bearden on the show, which was hosted by Conan O'Brien and televised live on ABC.
For this year's stage design, Buckley and Billingsley opted for "a monolithic structure soar[ing] from the ground like a phoenix from the ashes," wrote Buckley on Instagram. "The temple-like architecture was intended to feel both modern and ancient, using materials of stone, raw metals, glass, and rose gold to reflect our strength and fragility."
For this year's stage design, Buckley and Billingsley opted for "a monolithic structure soar[ing] from the ground like a phoenix from the ashes," wrote Buckley on Instagram. "The temple-like architecture was intended to feel both modern and ancient, using materials of stone, raw metals, glass, and rose gold to reflect our strength and fragility."
Photo: Richard Harbaugh/The Academy. Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
The show opened with a headline-grabbing performance by Wicked's Oscar-nominated stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, featuring songs from The Wizard of Oz and The Wiz before ending with a rendition of "Defying Gravity" that earned a standing ovation from the audience.
Photo: Trae Patton/The Academy. Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
Governors Ball
Immediately following the telecast, Oscars attendees traveled upstairs to Ovation Hollywood’s Ray Dolby Ballroom for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science’s official after-party: the Governors Ball. Returning for its 97th year, the event was produced by MaryJane Partlow, executive vice president of awards, production, and special events for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
A long list of vendor partners was needed to pull off the event. AV, lighting, and video was handled by ShowPro Inc.; drapery came from Dazian and Daryl Latter Design; and overall event rentals came from Bright Event Rentals. Event Carpet Pros Inc. handled carpeting, Fourth Dimension Events handled graphics, Lux Lounge handled custom furniture event rentals, and Resource One handled custom linens.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
The event also featured set design and fabrication from Bill Ferrell Co., subfloor from Special Event Contractors, and rigging from Ricochet Rigging.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
Partlow brought in a new florist this year: Saco Sarkissian, owner of Petals LA.
The event featured a number of smart sustainability tactics. Since 2013, the Governors Ball has offered more than 50% plant-based and vegetarian dishes; after the event, food is donated to Chefs to End Hunger. What’s more, all lighting, audio, rigging equipment, and furniture were rented or repurposed for various events, while all fresh flowers and greenery were either composted or donated to shelters and hospitals.
The event featured a number of smart sustainability tactics. Since 2013, the Governors Ball has offered more than 50% plant-based and vegetarian dishes; after the event, food is donated to Chefs to End Hunger. What’s more, all lighting, audio, rigging equipment, and furniture were rented or repurposed for various events, while all fresh flowers and greenery were either composted or donated to shelters and hospitals.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
Wolfgang Puck Catering celebrated its 31st year at the Governors Ball with a menu created by Wolfgang Puck and Eric Klein, along with pastry design by Kamel Guechida and Garry Larduinat. Tequila Don Julio also returned with mixologist Charles Joly—joined by 2024 World’s Best Bar Handshake Speakeasy from Mexico City—to create a selection of specialty cocktails with fun names like “The Clear Winner” and “The Thespian.” Other beverage sponsors included Clarendelle and Domaine Clarence Dillon wines and Champagne Lallier.
Photo: Al Seib/The Academy. Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
The Governors Ball also had a spot for winners like Best Supporting Actor Kieran Culkin (pictured) to get their trophies engraved.
Photo: Mark Von Holden/The Academy. Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
Oscars Greenroom Presented by Rolex
Rolex has hosted the official Oscars greenroom since 2016, and this year’s stylish space—designed by the Rolex team and produced by Event Eleven—focused on the "restoration of the natural world," according to the Rolex team, which took its inspiration from Rewilding Chile and Rewilding Argentina, supported by Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative.
Photo: Rolex
The room "depicts landscapes devoid of fences where native species are returning to the wilderness, and nature is restoring their habitat," according to a Rolex press release.
Photo: Rolex
Layers of airy tulle were imprinted to evoke the fluid contours and soft palette of a mountain landscape, set off by lighting diffused through sheer curtains. Across one side of the room, there was a sequence of cutouts representing native species, while the earthy colors and textures of the sofas, chairs, and tables completed the canvas.
Photo: Rolex
Event Eleven worked with Square LA on fabrication, Images by Lighting on lighting, Tashman on AV, and Primo XL on carpet.
Photo: Rolex
Universal Filmed Entertainment Group Pre-Oscars Celebration
Donna Langley, chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment and Studios, hosted a toast to Universal, Focus Features, and DreamWorks Animation Films on Feb. 26. The event at Steak 48 celebrated nominated projects Wicked, The Wild Robot, and Conclave, and was designed and produced by JWang Consulting.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
JWang Consulting opted for a sophisticated and stylish look created with accents of burgundy, pinks, smoky black, and hints of gold. The Petal Workshop handed florals, while furniture rentals came from Town & Country Event Rentals, FormDecor, and Blueprint Studios.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
Additional vendors included lighting from SEP Lighting, sound from Modern Illumination Productions, and linens from BBJ La Tavola. Entertainment came from DJ Mr. Best.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
Las’ Lap: Legacy Experience
Las’ Lap: Legacy Experience was a celebration of R&B’s music, culture, and influence, hosted by HarbourView Equity Partners and Grammy-winning musical director Adam Blackstone during Oscars week. The event, produced by Captivate Productions, was held at The Sun Rose West Hollywood and featured performances from artists like Toni Braxton, SiR, Estelle, and many more.
Photo: Courtesy of Captivate Productions
Captivate Productions collaborated with Vue Show Design Group to create an immersive experience that seamlessly integrated technology, crafting a stunning backdrop for VIP and talent photos that were captured by renowned photographer Mark Clennon. LA Premier Florals contributed the popular photo op's lush floral arrangements.
Photo: Courtesy of Captivate Productions
Searchlight Pictures Oscars Party
Searchlight Pictures took over Cipriani in the heart of Beverly Hills on Oscars night. Celebrating two highly nominated films—A Complete Unknown and A Real Pain—the night brought home a big win for Kieran Culkin as Best Supporting Actor. The evening, produced and designed by Sterling Social, aimed to enhance the existing aesthetic of the already stylish space.
Photo: Clark Studio
Highlighting interior design features such as the signature high-gloss woods and black marble accents, all custom pieces brought in seamlessly incorporated the same materials. The usual fine dining setting was transformed into an elevated lounge with rich velvet and boucle furnishings in a warm palette of deep chocolates, cognac, and pops of deep emerald.
Photo: Clark Studio
Food stations drew guests to both levels of the restaurant, which also features The Jazz Club upstairs with a bold and playful palette.
Photo: Clark Studio
London-based DJ Amazonica had guests dancing late into the night while guests enjoyed signature espresso martinis and Negronis. Sterling Social's creative partners included R. Jack Balthazar, Lighten Up Inc., and Modern Illumination Productions.
Photo: Clark Studio
ESSENCE's 18th Annual Black Women in Hollywood Awards
The ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards is an annual Oscars week celebration that honors pioneering Black women in Hollywood, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. This year's daytime gathering honored Cynthia Erivo, Teyana Taylor, Raamla Mohamed, and Marla Gibbs; it took place on Feb. 27 at Fairmont Century Plaza and featured video and creative production by MVD Inc.
Photo: Jorge Meza
“This year, as we explored both creative disciplines, our design inspiration was deeply rooted in a futuristic vision," said MVD Inc. co-founder and creative director Massah David. "We aimed to craft bold, transformative moments while maintaining a soft, luxurious ambiance."
Photo: Jorge Meza
"From the white carpet to our hemispheric stage, we integrated diverse textures and subtle variations in hue to create a dynamic yet refined experience," David added.
Photo: Jorge Meza
“We aimed to create an ambiance that stayed true to a monochromatic theme, incorporating deep forest greens paired with rich reds, accented by pops of marigold and chartreuse,” noted Reegan Houston, MVD's assistant vice president of global creative production.
Photo: Jorge Meza
Ultimately, notes the MVD team—who has been executive producing the luncheon since 2022—the goal was to "push innovation" in every area of the gathering. David and Houston worked with ESSENCE's Rechelle Dennis, Zach Kaul, and director of experiential Calune Eustache.
Photo: Jorge Meza
Elton John AIDS Foundation's 33rd Annual Academy Awards Viewing Party
The Elton John AIDS Foundation hosted its 33rd annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party on March 2 at West Hollywood Park. The 1,000-attendee event featured a performance from Grammy-winning artist Chappell Roan and raised more than $8.6 million in support of the foundation’s mission to end AIDS.
Photo: Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Elton John AIDS Foundation
Elton John co-hosted the event alongside Elton John AIDS Foundation Chair David Furnish and actors Jean Smart, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Neil Patrick Harris (pictured), and David Burtka. Presenting sponsors of the event included A+E Networks, Chopard, e.l.f. Beauty, Gilead Sciences, Robert and Dana Kraft, and Bob and Tamar Manoukian. Co-sponsors were Judy and Leonard Lauder, American Airlines, Tequila Don Julio, DAOU Vineyards, Moët Hennessy Private and Petrossian Caviar, and the City of West Hollywood.
Photo: Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Elton John AIDS Foundation
Vanity Fair and Instagram Celebrate Vanities: A Night for Young Hollywood
On Feb. 26, Vanity Fair and Instagram hosted Vanities: A Night For Young Hollywood, a star-studded bash co-hosted by Aaron Pierre, Anna Sawai, Keke Palmer, and Monica Barbaro, at Bar Marmont. The event—produced by David Rodgers Inc.—was part of VF’s Campaign Hollywood, an annual event series leading up to the Academy Awards. Guests like Christian Serratos (pictured) and other rising stars posed in front of a glowing step-and-repeat.
Photo: Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for Vanity Fair
Tequila Don Julio was the exclusive tequila sponsor, curating cocktails for the evening with a pop-up 1942 minibar, while Devin Lucien and DJ Equal provided entertainment throughout the event. The event, like Vanity Fair's other Oscar week events, raised funds for the Motion Picture & Television Fund and Baby2Baby, both of which are helping wildfire victims.
Photo: Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for Vanity Fair
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures' Official Oscars Watch Party
On March 2, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures hosted its Official Oscars Watch Party, presented by AFEELA by Sony Honda Mobility. Guests who purchased tickets could pose for photo activations on the Walt Disney Company Piazza, shop for exclusive merchandise at the Academy Museum Store, enjoy hors d’oeuvres by Wolfgang Puck Catering, and sip on wines from Clarendelle and Domaine Clarence Dillon and Champagne from Champagne Lallier.
Photo: ©Academy Museum Foundation; photo by Max Christiansen
The live broadcast of the Oscars was streamed in the museum’s David Geffen Theater, and guests left with a parting gift bag of exclusive Oscars-themed merchandise from the Academy Museum Store.
Photo: ©Academy Museum Foundation; photo by Max Christiansen
Tequila Don Julio x Oscars Speakeasy
During Oscars weekend, Tequila Don Julio popped up at three luxury properties in LA—The Maybourne, The Peninsula, and The London— to serve up the signature cocktails of this year’s Governors Ball, taking over an elevator bank of each hotel. Guests stepped inside the exclusive Tequila Don Julio 1942 Speakeasy to toast Hollywood’s biggest night.
Photo: Courtesy of The London Hotel
The speakeasy featured Oscars-worthy cocktails co-created by globally acclaimed mixologist Charles Joly and World’s Best Bar Handshake Speakeasy.
Photo: The London Hotel
US-Ireland Alliance's 19th Annual Oscar Wilde Awards
The US-Ireland Alliance’s Oscar Wilde Awards, an annual event created nearly 20 years ago by Alliance founder Trina Vargo, was held at The Ebell of Los Angeles on Feb. 27. The night honored Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, John C. Reilly, and Éanna Hardwicke; presenters were Will Ferrell, Hylda Queally, and Macdara Kelleher. Irish singers Lenii (pictured) and Eiza Murphy performed.
Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for US-Ireland Alliance
Guests enjoyed Irish favorites like Wilde Irish Gin’s signature cocktail—a Wilde Irish Coffee—plus mini mugs of Irish stew, fish and chips, a mashed potato bar, Guinness, and more. The Beverly Hills Hotel was the hotel sponsor for the event, while The Hollywood Reporter was the media sponsor.
Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for US-Ireland Alliance
ECOLUXE Luxury Lounge
Veteran producer Debbie Durkin hosted her 18th annual ECOLUXE Luxury Lounge to benefit firefighters, fire victims, and Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue Ranch at a private residence in Beverly Hills. The exclusive daytime event featured a pop-up photo shoot studio—dubbed "Creating New Memories" Heroes & Survivors Portraits—from celebrity photographer David Christopher Lee. The event also showcased emerging brands in beauty and wellness, sustainability, and spirits, plus culinary creations by chef Denise Smith, puppies available for adoption, and more. The crowd was a mix of philanthropists, Oscar nominees, celebrities, media, first responders, and fire victims.
Photo: Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Debbie Durkin
MPTF's 23rd Annual Night Before
MPTF’s 23rd annual "Night Before" benefit took place on March 1, drawing a who's-who crowd of Oscars nominees and winners. Co-chaired by Demi Moore, Colman Domingo, and Cynthia Erivo, the annual event raised close to $4 million; funds will provide essential support and services to working and retired entertainment industry members in response to the LA wildfires. The event was designed by Studio Komorebi with specialty food provided by Carmelized Productions by Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo.
Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for MPTF
GBK, MEND & Bodywell’s Pre-Academy Awards Luxury Lounge, Presented by KC Chic Designs
GBK Brand Bar, MEND, Bodywell, and KC Chic Designs teamed up to host a luxury gifting lounge Feb. 28 to March 1. Attendees received over $40,000 in luxury gifts and trips; celebrities were also given the opportunity to participate in a "Giving Suite" benefiting Americares, where they could fulfill emergency kits and go bags that were distributed to individuals affected by the LA wildfires.
Photo Credit: Tiffany Rose/Getty Images
