Beaux Arts Ball is coming into bloom

The Beaux Arts Ball will open its doors at 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 14.

Amanda Bryant

Spring is coming, and it’s bringing the annual Beaux Arts Foundation Ball with it.

The Burl will host the event this Saturday, April 14, with doors opening at 7 p.m. This will be the 50th year of the event. The foundation is student-run and works to nurture the growth of artists and diversity around the Lexington community by contributing the funds from the event to local charities that have the same focus. According to the foundation’s press release, this year the organization has named El Pulso Lexington Community Radio and Lexington’s Pride Community Services Organization as the beneficiaries.

“This year’s event will feature a lineup of artists, our annual fashion show, and installations created by students in the College of Designs,” PR director Katie Hunt said. “We hope to see everyone out to celebrate such a huge milestone in the arts community.”

Freddy Todd will be this year’s headliner with a promise to not disappoint those hoping to get their vibes flowing through the night. The music will begin around 8 p.m. and will feature several other artists including Lylak, Pariah and If Only to name a few, according to the foundation’s press release.

“The idea behind the Beaux Arts Foundation is to promote diversity and originality while indulging in elements of performance from artists both local and nationwide,” said co-director Taylor Stephens. “We strive to promote the livelihood of the arts through public celebratory events.”

Executive director Tara Pasad said that according to coverage from last year’s ball, nearly 1,000 people attended. This will be the second year The Burl has hosted the event. In 2016, the event was held at Manchester Music Hall.

The ball has raised an estimated $181,000 over the last 50 years, according to the foundation website, and has supported charities including the Community Action Council, Bluegrass Rape Crisis Center and Home of the Innocents, among several others.

The foundation’s website states there will be interactive art installations, live runway models, circus performers and many other attractions to accompany the great tunes. Of course, attendees are also encouraged to show off their inner-artist and dress in costume.

Tickets for the event are $25 for general admission and $30 at the door. They can be purchased at the ball’s Eventbrite page.