Join us for one magical evening to change the future of children’s health
The Children’s Gala
This year alone, nearly 100,000 children from across the region will count on Sanford Children’s for extra or unexpected care through our 35 pediatric specialties, a growing network of primary care clinics and a Castle of Care, the region’s only freestanding children’s hospital.
There are no limits to the good this community can do, together. Since the inaugural Children’s Gala more than 20 years ago, this cherished event has raised millions in support of Sanford Children’s, supporting enhancements to critical care, providing essential help for families and changing lives through state-of-the-art lifesaving equipment.
October 2025
Join us October 2025 for the Children’s Gala — a celebration of philanthropy and an inspiring call to action from local kids, families and Sanford Health leaders at the Sanford Pentagon.
More information to be provided at a later date.
World-class pediatric care, fueled by philanthropy
Where our story began
In 2004, a $16 million challenge gift from philanthropist Denny Sanford played a lead role in helping construct Sanford Children’s Hospital, the region’s only free-standing children’s hospital. It also inspired donors across the region to step forward in support of Sanford Children’s initiatives in clinics across our footprint.
Where we can go, together
As more and more kids count on the Sanford Children’s, we count on our community’s generosity more than ever.
Every gift raised for Sanford Children’s through the Sanford Health Foundation supports everything from fairytale spaces to lifesaving equipment, family and patient services, research and more. It all adds up to help recruit and retain expert caregivers, maintain the most advanced NICU in the Dakotas and deliver world-class care, close to home.
FAQs
Children’s Gala FAQs
Event Preparation
- Will there be coat check? – Yes, coat check will be in the entrance.
- Do I need a ticket to enter the Gala? – It is recommended that guests register in advance of the event to assist in a quicker check-in. Staff will assist you with check-in and locating your table once you arrive. RSVP link to be provided at a later date!
- Can I purchase additional tickets or tables at the door? – While we wish we could accommodate everyone, there will be no additional ticket or table sales at the event.
- If one of my guests is unexpectedly unable to attend, can I invite someone else at the last minute? (For table hosts or sponsors only) – Yes, you can invite someone other than your original guest. Please tell our registration table the name of the person who is unable to attend and provide them with the name of your new guest. Your new guest will need to check in at the registration table.
At the Event
- Where should I park? – There is a lot to the south of the Pentagon reserved for Gala parking (2210 W Pentagon Pl).
- Are there organized shuttles? – Yes, shuttles will be circulating throughout the parking lot to take guests from their car to the entrance, and then back to vehicles at the end of the evening.
- Is there valet? – Yes, valet will be available for those who need the extra assistance.
- What can I expect as a guest at this event? – The Children’s Gala will be an incredibly impactful and inspiring event, lifting up our dedicated caregivers, crucial programs and services, and sweet pediatric patients. There will be a cocktail hour and hors d’oeuvres, a delicious plated-dinner, drinks, a compelling program featuring the beautiful work happening each day at Sanford Children’s, followed by music and dancing.
- Will there be a vegetarian plate option? – Yes, please notify the server that you would like a vegetarian plate.
- Will there be an opportunity to partner with Sanford Children’s and support their mission at the event? – Yes! Guests inspired by the evening will have the opportunity to give by way of credit card or invoice through our Miracle Match.
The 2024 Event Sponsors
Thank you to our generous sponsors for helping make this evening possible!
We appreciate your support and commitment to local kids at Sanford Children’s.
Our sponsorships for the 2024 Children’s Gala are sold out. Please contact us for information about 2025 sponsorship opportunities!