Hat Luncheon: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hat Luncheon?
The Hat Luncheon, Forest Park Forever's signature event and largest annual fundraiser, brings the community together to celebrate and benefit our beloved Forest Park. 

What do the proceeds from the Hat Luncheon benefit? 
Forest Park Forever's mission is to restore, maintain and sustain Forest Park. All proceeds raised through sponsorship, ticket/table sales and raffle will directly benefit the daily care of the Park.

Where do I get my ticket? 
This is a "ticketless" event—purchase confirmation of an individual seat or table for ten reserves your place. When you arrive at the World's Fair Pavilion you must collect your name tag, which serves as your "ticket" to attend the event and list your seating assignment. Staff and volunteers will be on site to assist all guests. Reserve your seat here.

What is the order of events at this year's Hat Luncheon? 

• Cocktail Reception begins at 11:30 a.m.

• Hat Contest judging during the cocktail reception

• Call to lunch at 12:15 p.m.

• Welcome at 12:30 p.m.

• Hat Contest Winners Announcement

• The event concludes at 2:00 p.m.

• Keep the fun going by posting your photos with #ForestParkHatLuncheon

What is the Hat Contest? 
This Hat Contest is the thematic center of the event's program, providing a fun, interactive opportunity to spotlight your style.  Anyone attending the Hat Luncheon is welcome to participate. Guests are invited to don a hat of their choice for the occasion and join in the beloved Hat Contest.

How do I participate in the Hat Contest? 
To participate in the Hat Contest, guests will be directed to the promenade in front of our judges' panel.

Note: participants MUST present in front of the judges to be considered for the Contest.

What are the Hat Contest categories?
Showcase your personal style for Best Hat or share the spotlight with friends in the Best Table category. There are two categories for the Hat Contest this year, Best Hat and Best Table.

Best Hat:  Whether they be unusual, outstanding, stand-out hats, headpieces or fascinators, all hats presented to the judges will be considered for this award, with the exception of the Best Table winners. Everyone is welcome to don their finest hat. Five fashion-forward contestants will be awarded for the Best Hat category.

Best Table: A cohesive theme in a table group, hats can be matching or coordinated will be considered for this team effort! Additional consideration may be given to coordination of outfits, use of accessories, props, etc. Only one table (one group of 10) will be chosen for this category.

How are winners selected and notified?
The judges' panel will vote on Hat Contest winners for each category. Forest Park Forever staff and volunteers will notify winners during the seated Luncheon and ask them to gather for a presentation during the program.

What is the suggested attire? 
We encourage all guests to don their favorite hat but keep in mind the humidity in St. Louis, so think summer chic. All are encouraged to wear sensible shoes for spending a day outside in the Park. 

Where do I park?
Hat Luncheon guests are asked to park at the Festival and Parking Plaza at the Upper Muny Parking Lot. Continuous shuttle service will transport all guests to the World's Fair Pavilion and back. 

Where can I find more information or have additional questions? 
Please visit the Hat Luncheon website for more detailed information regarding the event. If you do not find your answer there, please email hatluncheon@forestparkforever.org or call 314.561.3447.