Rob Giardinelli
Zilker Park Is The Perfect Venue Durng The ACL Festival
By Rob Giardinelli Photography By Jennifer Greene, Matt Bradford/Hank & Tank Photography, and Austin Parks Foundation
THE SCENE: The American Express stage and section of Austin City Limits Music Festival at Zilker Park was the setting for one of the most fun, innovative fundraising galas anywhere in Texas. Over 850 of the area’s most notable community leaders, nature lovers, music fans, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for Party for the Parks. Benefiting the Austin Parks Foundation, the night featured touching tributes and great music that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.
THE VIBE: The festival-chic crowd brought their favorite music wear with them to Zilker. In the crowd, one could spot an eclectic array of sundresses, festival wear, hats, and more. The result was a happy, welcoming environment for those who attended. The festivities kicked off as guests were escorted via cart to the American Express stage and section at Zilker Park, brimming with anticipation of the fun ahead. After all, how magical it is to experience the American Express ACL stage, usually packed with tens of thousands of people, with only 850 people in it.
Once guests were dropped off, they headed to a VIP reception for sponsors and other major patrons. During the VIP reception, guests had the opportunity to grab a cocktail, mingle with other guests, and take advantage of several activations, including custom-embroidered bandanas that served as keepsakes for the evening.
The action then moved to the Tito’s Vodka tent, already set up for weekend two of the Austin City Limits Music Festival, for dinner and the main program. After guests grabbed their favorite delectable bites at the Mexican-themed buffet, they enjoyed banter from event emcees Sara Wolf and KEYE’s We Are Austin co-host Trevor Scott, who kept the crowd entertained and moving at a fun, yet brisk pace.
Next came a live auction helmed by Heath Hale of Cowboy Auctioneer. The paddles and fundraising increased as they bid on a range of uniquely Austin and festival-centric experiences with a private party for 50 at Franklin BBQ’s new event space, Franklin Backyard, a Magic of Zilker package, and a C3 Festival Trifecta package, which emerged as the most popular among bidders.
The night concluded in style with live music. An epic performance by Passion Pit kept the energy going as the audience sang along to their favorite songs and capped off an epic night of fun and fundraising for one of Austin’s most magical signature fundraising events.
THE NON-PROFIT: Party for the Parks raised over $700,000 for the Austin Parks Foundation, shattering its previous event fundraising record by a wide margin. Proceeds from the event will fund park programs and green space initiatives across Austin’s vast network of parks, trails, and green spaces.
