Lady LUX

The holidays are officially in full swing and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate the season of giving with 10 luxtastic philanthropic events happening all over the country. Between these galas, parties and balls you will help honor World Aids Day, raise funds for Hurricane Sandy victims, end sexual violence and more. As you’re celebrating this year, help spread some love to those less fortunate by attending one of these fun and festive events!

San Diego

What: Tree of Life Tree Lighting Ceremony to commemorate World Aids Day
When: December 1
Mama’s Kitchen, a volunteer-driven charity that delivers nutritious meals to men, women and children affected by AIDS or cancer, recently served its 6 millionth meal. They are celebrating this and other achievements with their 21st Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Village Hillcrest. As “San Diego's premiere event to commemorate World AIDS Day,” guests will help to raise awareness, funds and hope for AIDS victims in their community.

Boston

What: A Grand Gala to benefit the Ally Foundation
When: December 1
You are cordially invited to the Grand Gala at the Wharf Room of the Boston Harbor Hotel to benefit the Ally Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to ending sexual violence in the United States. Guests will enjoy culinary delights courtesy of world-renowned chef, Daniel Bruce, as well as a live and silent auction, an interactive “spirit wall,” and musical entertainment. All funds will go towards the development of the Ally Institute at RAND Corporation, set to launch October 2013, which will serve a critical role in the prevention of sexual violence.

New York

What: Autism Speaks for Sandy
When: December 4
Generation Nxt, a nonprofit that organizes philanthropic events for young adults to connect and raise awareness of the most important social and health issues, invites one and all to Autism Speaks for Sandy at the swank Simyone Lounge. Guests will start the evening off with a VIP dinner at Abe & Arthur's and then enjoy the beats of celebrity DJ Chachi and DJ Fulano at this Chelsea hot spot. All proceeds will go to Autism Speaks and victims of Hurricane Sandy.

What: Cocktails to Benefit Hurricane Sandy

When: Decemeber 5

If dancing the night away for hurricane victims at Autism Speaks for Sandy wasn’t enough, head to this cocktail party the next day to drink up for those who need some help this holiday. Head to this cocktail party at the Sanctuary Hotel to enjoy masterful Pyrat Rum concoctions and 10% off Lola Haze lingerie that will be available for purchase. Remember to clean out your closet and bring all extra clothing to donate to the Salvation Army, who will be distributing items to victims.

What: Ringin in the Cure for Cancer
When: Decemeber 31
Start 2013 off on the right foot with this NYE bash to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma society at Van Diemens. Tickets include 5-hour top shelf open bar, champagne toast, hors d’oeuvres, live DJ, raffles, prizes for best midnight kiss and more. Keep it classy in black and white attire and come ready to party for a cure.

Miami

What: Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center 20th Anniversary Celebration Gala
When: December 8
This one’s a biggie. Don’t miss the 20th Anniversary Sylvester Gala at the JW Marriott Marquis to benefit the cancer center’s essential work in cancer research, outreach and education. The 2012 Gala will host over 1,000 guests and feature a performance by two-time Tony Award-winner Sutton Foster, a luxury silent auction and an exciting after party with DJ Irie on the tables.

Los Angeles

What: A Crystal Starr Christmas
When: December 9
Crystal Starr, recording artist and Broadway star who has appeared on American Idol and performed with music legends Stevie Wonder, John Legend and Kanye West, has organized a holiday concert to benefit foster kids and families served by Hathaway-Sycamores Child and Family Services. This nonprofit is one of the largest child welfare agencies in Los Angeles County and serves over 8,000 children and families per year. Get in the Christmas spirit and help support the important work of foster parents with this festive event.

What: 1st Annual White Blissmas Charity Ball
When: December 15
BurnLA, the Cruz Coalition and the LA League of Arts are joining forces to support two wonderful projects: the Aquaponic Educational Garden at Santee High School in South Central La and Hurricane Sandy Relief in New York and New Jersey. This union of west and east coast philanthropy promises more than just good karma. Check out two rooms of live music from lots of upcoming artists, art auction, free massage, food and more.

Chicago

What: Jingle Ball Run/Walk for Arthritis
When: December 15
Arthritis is the most common cause of disability and can affect people both young and old. Support them by running this festive 10k/5k to benefit the Arthritis Foundation’s research and services. Don’t be surprised to see Santas, elves and other holiday personages running with you and feel free to lace up with jingle bells on your shoes to get in the spirit.

San Francisco

What: Macy’s Holiday Windows: Pet Adoption Displays
When: Through January 1st
You have until January 1, but you may want to run down early to ogle the adorable and adoptable cats and dogs inhabiting the Macy’s window displays this year. Over the past seven years, these holiday window displays have allowed the SF SPCA to raise nearly $400,000 and find loving homes for over 2,300 homeless animals. Help them keep up the good work by visiting the Macy’s in Union Square and perhaps bringing home the newest member of the family.

Tagged in: charity, causes, holiday 2012, philanthropy, charities, charity event guide, world aids day, gala, arthritis foundation, hurricane sandy, leukemia & lymphoma society, sylvester gala, spca, autism speaks, crystal starr, jingle bell jog, ally institute, mama's kitchen,