I am super excited for this event again this year. I would have to say its one of the best parties in Philadelphia. The American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania (SEPA) is excited to announce several exciting changes to the 14th Red Ball presented by Independence Blue Cross on March 8th at the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia.

 Cooking Channel’s Kelsey’s Essentials Host, Kelsey Nixon, recently said she would be attending the Red Ball, which is a favorite event among Philadelphia foodies. Catelli Duo of Voorhess, NJ will be the exclusive caterer for the VIP room. For the first time, the Carousel House on the Main Event floor will feature a beer garden, including some of the region’s finest microbreweries.

 More than 1,100 of Philadelphia’s social, civic, and business leaders are expected to attend this “red-tie” event featuring cuisine from 30 of the finest restaurants in our area, dancing to live music, and an unrivaled silent auction and raffle. For the second straight year, the VIP Lounge will be the entire lower level and will have its own entrance. For the first time, dueling pianos will provide the musical entertainment in the VIP room. VIP guests will also enjoy private top-shelf open bar and a cigar bar. Main Event guests will sample cuisine from nearly 30 of the region’s finest restaurants, dance the night away to CTO Band in the ballroom or listen to jazz played by Gerald Veasley in the beautiful Carousel House.

 The 2014 Red Ball will once again include the 4th annual Red Ball Restaurant Competition, allowing guests to vote for their favorite food for an award at the end of the night. Guests will have an opportunity to bid on fantastic auction items and will also have access to the museum’s exhibits.

 All proceeds from The Red Ball benefit disaster relief and Red Cross House – The Center for Disaster Recovery, a one-of-a-kind short-term housing facility in University City. Every year, hundreds of local families find refuge at this facility and begin their recovery from fires, floods, and other disasters. Red Cross House is a model for disaster recovery nationwide. It offers families a stable and supportive environment while they work to rebuild their lives. Since opening its doors in April 2003, Red Cross House has been called “home” by more than 10,000 people who had no place else to turn in their greatest time of need.

 WOGL 98.1 FM and KYW Newsradio 1060 are the official radio sponsors of Red Ball.

 Visit theredball.org and follow #RedBall for tickets, sponsorship details, and more information.