This is the event playbook for the 2026 Suits & Sneakers Gala, a fundraising event organized by the American Cancer Society to support cancer patients in Arkansas. It is intended for attendees, sponsors, and donors of the gala. The playbook opens with the event's date (Friday, October 9, 2026), venue (Fayetteville Town Center), dress code (cocktail with sneakers), and parking details. It lists…
This is the event playbook for the 2026 Suits & Sneakers Gala, a fundraising event organized by the American Cancer Society to support cancer patients in Arkansas. It is intended for attendees, sponsors, and donors of the gala.
The playbook opens with the event's date (Friday, October 9, 2026), venue (Fayetteville Town Center), dress code (cocktail with sneakers), and parking details. It lists the evening's program: guest registration at 5:30 PM, dinner and program at 6:30 PM, a mission moment featuring Arkansas Softball Coach Courtney Deifel, a gamechanger award, live auction, and a dance party with Rebirth DJs until 11:00 PM.
A section on event activations describes how guests can use All Access Pass tickets ($250 for 12 entries) to win prizes. Activities include a PIGS Bourbon Bar, axe throwing with Post Brands, premium baskets from Dillard's and PIGS, a mystery box from Blakeman's Fine Jewelry ($100 per box), and a basketball shootout against Arkansas athletes.
Additional attractions along the red carpet and ballroom include a Big Top Bar with signature drinks, a sneaker showcase with luxury shoe prizes, a photo booth, a signing day with Arkansas athletes, and dice games with Cherokee Casino. A map shows the layout of registration, main stage, and activity stations.
The live auction features a $10,000 private shopping spree at Blakeman's Fine Jewelry, five VIP Razorback fan experiences with behind-the-scenes access to multiple sports, and a 2026 Buick Envista Avenir donated by McLarty Daniel Buick GMC. All auction funds support lodging and transportation grants for cancer patients in Arkansas.
The playbook concludes with media overview details including Facebook, Instagram, and website handles, contact information for Gala Director Joanna Cope and ACS Contact Krista Thomas, and a note that funds raised support cancer research and grants across Arkansas.