A Feast For The Eyes At The Dallas Arboretum And Botanical Garden Mad Hatter’s 37th Annual Luncheon

Memorable Chapeaux Galore Were Created For Its “Celebrating Spring In The South” Theme

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography by Thomas Garza Photography and Rob Wythe of Wythe Portrait Studio

THE SCENE: A beautiful afternoon at the Scott K. Ginsburg Family Plaza at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden was the setting for one of North Texas’ most anticipated annual fundraising events. A sold-out crowd of 540 of the area’s top nature lovers, fashionistas, sociables, and philanthropists was on hand for the 37^th annual Mad Hatter’s Luncheon. Hosted by the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, the afternoon’s theme, “Celebrating Spring in the South,” featured an array of stunning hats and fashion, with guests discussing this dazzling afternoon long after the festivities.

THE VIBE: The garden-cocktail attired crowd featured a festive mix of bright colors and floral prints, creating a joyous, happy, and welcoming environment for all who attended. Of course, most patrons donned stunning, elaborately decorated hats to honor the event, each of which perfectly complemented the crowd’s fashions.

The afternoon began with cocktails al fresco. After arriving, revelers were spotted grabbing their favorite glass of champagne or Southern-inspired cocktail and mingling with other guests. Many took a moment or two to take in the stunning Dallas Arboretum grounds, which featured azalea displays in full bloom. Others could be seen taking in the remarkable array of hats showcasing the crowd’s spirit, which, of course, a few lucky guests would win bragging rights for the following year.

Those looking for bragging rights took their turn in Mad Hatter’s legendary hat judging competition. This year’s categories were all a nod to “Spring in the South,” including Best Use of Fresh Botanicals, Most Elegant, Most Over-the-Top, Outrageous Creation, Best Group, People’s Choice, and Best in Show.

Partygoers then took to their seats for the luncheon. Many gasped with awe as they entered one of two different settings, each featuring tables draped in a stunning mix of light blue shantung tablecloths and elegant white tablecloths with green flower etchings. The tables featured beautiful centerpieces of luxurious flowers, including roses, hydrangeas, and snapdragons.

As the crowd dined on a delectable, three-course luncheon menu, they were treated to words from the event and organization leaders thanking them for being a part of a memorable afternoon in a magical space. Additionally, the prizes were awarded for the hat judging categories to honor guests for their creative innovation and ensembles that showcased the true spirit of the event.

The afternoon was capped off with a stunning fashion show sponsored by NorthPark Center and produced by Jan Strimple. One by one, models walked the runway in one fabulous spring-inspired look after another, from a host of luxury brands and retailers including Etro, Maje, ME+EM, Nordstrom, SANDRO, Scanlan Theodore, and St. John with beauty by Glossier. The looks captivated the crowd and had guests already awaiting the 2026 Mad Hatter’s Luncheon.

THE NON-PROFIT: The 37^th annual Mad Hatter’s Luncheon: Celebrating Spring in the South was led by Event Chair Sara Friedman, Honorary Chair Cindy Feld, and Woman’s Council President Therese Rourk, and raised funds for A Woman’s Garden at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The proceeds raised will go towards maintaining the nation’s only public garden that was conceived, constructed, and maintained by the funding efforts of women.