Mardi Gras Palm Beach 2026: Diana Davis Hosts the Season’s Defining Charity Gala
An elegant evening at The Sailfish Club unites Palm Beach society in support of survivors of human trafficking through the 11th Annual Movies Making A Difference Mardi Gras.
In Palm Beach, the social calendar carries a rhythm all its own, shaped by tradition, philanthropy, and a sense of purpose that extends beyond celebration. This season, one evening rises as its defining charitable gathering. The 11th Annual Mardi Gras presented by Movies Making A Difference returns as the highlight of the year, drawing together civic leaders, philanthropists, patrons of the arts, and devoted supporters of humanitarian causes for a night that reflects the highest ideals of the community.
At the center of this distinguished event stands Diana Davis, Founder and CEO of Movies Making A Difference, whose enduring commitment to survivors of human trafficking has shaped the organization’s mission and reach. Her invitation to Palm Beach is both gracious and resolute, extending a welcome to an evening designed to celebrate resilience while generating vital support for those rebuilding their lives.
Set for Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM, the gala unfolds at The Sailfish Club, Palm Beach, a venue long associated with heritage, discretion, and refined gatherings. Within its storied setting, guests will assemble for a creative black tie affair that balances elegance with heartfelt advocacy. The evening includes a silent and live auction, a seated dinner, curated drinks, and dancing that carries the celebration through the night.
Movies Making A Difference has steadily built a reputation for pairing cinematic storytelling with direct community impact. Through carefully developed programs, the organization supports survivors of human trafficking with resources that foster stability, independence, and renewed opportunity. The annual Mardi Gras gala serves as its most visible and celebrated fundraising initiative, translating awareness into tangible assistance.
The visual identity of the event reflects classic Mardi Gras artistry, rendered in deep jewel tones and intricate mask motifs that suggest festivity while maintaining the polished aesthetic expected of Palm Beach’s most anticipated occasions. The balance between celebration and purpose defines the character of the evening.
Leadership and Vision
Diana Davis has shaped Movies Making A Difference into an organization recognized for both its compassion and its structure. Her leadership extends beyond the gala itself, guiding year-round initiatives that connect donors directly to programs designed for measurable change. The annual Mardi Gras gathering represents the culmination of months of planning, partnerships, and community engagement.
This year’s gala is chaired by Mary Giuseffi, whose presence signals a thoughtful and strategic approach to the evening’s execution. Supporting her are Co-Chairs Jennifer Nawrocki and Pippa Secker, along with Auction Chair Sylvia Mesaric, each contributing expertise and dedication to ensure that every detail aligns with the organization’s standards.
The Design Chairs, Bruce Sutka and Mary Bryant McCourt, oversee the aesthetic presentation, shaping an environment that complements the evening’s theme while honoring the traditions of Palm Beach entertaining. Their work integrates visual sophistication with the celebratory spirit of Mardi Gras.
A dynamic Young Friends committee composed of Julia Petricig, Karina Supovitz, and Brooklyn Dellago reflects the organization’s commitment to engaging the next generation of philanthropic leaders. Their involvement underscores a broader vision of continuity and sustained advocacy.
Guests of Honor Heidi Jessop and Amber Dawn Lee bring further significance to the occasion, embodying the courage and transformation at the heart of the organization’s mission. Their recognition highlights the lived experiences that inform and inspire the work supported by the gala.
Community Support and Distinguished Patrons
The strength of the 11th Annual Mardi Gras lies in the remarkable breadth of its supporters. Special thanks are extended to hosts Tracy and Matt Stevens, whose generosity sets the tone for the evening’s success. Their leadership is complemented by an impressive circle of patrons and benefactors who represent the philanthropic backbone of Palm Beach.
Among them are Giselle and George Albrecht, Dave Aronberg, Callie Baker and Matt Holt, Lavinia Baker and John McGreevy, Sophia Baratashvilli, Turner Benoit, Allen Berger, Alex Berry, Melanie Cabot and Irwin Kudman, Carol Calicchio, Chief Michael Coleman, Scott Diament, Edwige Gilbert, Assistant Chief Nathan Gordon, Barbara Heilman, Mindy Heilman, Chris Hersey, Deborah Kay, Sam Kelley, Vickie and Roderick Knoeppel, and Rita and Jeff Marteski.
Their commitment is joined by Karen and Ray Masciarella, Rodney Mayo, Ivana and Tucker McCready, Rick Morris, Johnna Pomasan, Serena Redding, Janet and Raffi Ruggeri, Debra Tomarin, Sally Shaffer, Jacqui Sheridan, Deputy Chief Tony Shearer, Harvey Sherzer, His Highness Prince Mario Max zu Schaumburg Lippe, Joanne Pinciss Warshaver, Gudrun Saverthal, Brent Sudeck, Aileen Walborsky, and Annie Watt. Each name represents a personal investment in the mission of supporting survivors and strengthening community awareness.
Entertainment for the evening is provided by the Philippe Harari Band and DJ Lexey, ensuring a program that transitions seamlessly from formal dining to spirited dancing. Their performance brings energy and cohesion to a night designed to honor both tradition and forward momentum.
An Evening with Purpose
The Sailfish Club offers an intimate yet distinguished backdrop, reinforcing the exclusivity and significance of the gathering. Guests arriving in creative black tie will encounter a setting carefully prepared to reflect respect for the cause while celebrating the philanthropic vitality of Palm Beach.
The silent and live auctions remain central to the evening’s fundraising efforts, presenting curated opportunities for guests to contribute directly to the programs of Movies Making A Difference. Each bid serves as a tangible expression of solidarity with survivors who are working toward independence and renewed opportunity.
Throughout the evening, the atmosphere remains grounded in the understanding that celebration and responsibility can coexist. The Mardi Gras theme introduces color and artistry, while the mission anchors the event in meaningful impact. This balance has defined the gala for eleven years and continues to elevate its standing within the Palm Beach season.
Diana Davis’s invitation to the community carries both warmth and clarity. She calls upon friends, supporters, and new patrons alike to gather in shared commitment. The 11th Annual Mardi Gras stands as a testament to what can be achieved when social influence aligns with compassionate action.
As Palm Beach prepares for another distinguished season, this gala affirms the enduring role of philanthropy within its cultural fabric. The evening promises refined hospitality, purposeful engagement, and the collective strength of a community dedicated to positive change.
