Event FAQs
What are the event details?
The Heart of the Valley Gala is on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. at the Hippodrome at Carnation Farms.
Do I need to show proof of my ticket?
If you purchased your ticket, we have your information and menu choice already. If you are the guest of someone who purchased the ticket for you, please make sure you have their name ready in case we need to update your name in our system to ensure your ability to bid and enjoy your evening!
What is the format of the evening?
Sponsors and their guests are invited for early check-in at 4 p.m. All other guests can check-in at 4:30 p.m. The reception will include appetizers, super silent auction, live auction preview, games of chance and raffles, passed sparkling wine, and a photobooth. Dinner will be served between 6:30 - 7 p.m. and includes the live auction & dessert dash. A dance party will begin at the end of the live auction.
What is the dress code?
We see all types of dress for this event, but a good guideline is business casual to cocktail attire. Dress in layers as the evenings can be cool in May. The Hippodrome has ceiling heaters. There is a shuttle from the parking area to the Hippodrome, so you can wear your fancier footwear.
Where will I park?
Follow the signs for free covered parking in the flat barn at the bottom of the hill. There will be attendants to help you and a covered area to wait for one of the two, 14-passenger shuttles to bring you up to the Hippodrome.
Why is there a shuttle?
The Hippodrome is up a steep hill from the designated parking area. Visitors to Carnation Farms find the 14-passenger shuttles to be a fast, safe, and efficient way to get to the Hippodrome event venue, especially if you are dressed in your gala best.
Can I walk from the parking area to the Hippodrome?
Our shuttle team is efficient, quick, and safe and we ask that our guests use this service to ensure the safety of all guests.
I have an ADA placard. Where should I park?
There are several ADA accessible parking spots adjacent to the Hippodrome that require an ADA placard.
Online Auction FAQs
How can I bid on the online auction?
The online auction opens on Monday, May 12 and closes on Sunday, May 18 at 3 p.m. You can register and bid online here: https://heart2025.ggo.bid
If I win an online auction item, how do I get the item?
You will be notified if you have won items. Some items, such as gift certificates, can be mailed or emailed to you. In other cases, you will come to the Empower Youth Network office in Carnation and pick up your item. You can contact Helene Wentink, EYN Communication & Fund Development Director at helene@empoweryouthnetwork.org to get more information.
