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 Winner Announcement
The event concludes at 2:00 p.m.
Keep the fun going by posting your photos with #ForestParkHatLuncheon
Will there be a raffle again this year?
Yes! There are several raffle prizes this year. Win an experience from one of several local favorites—Parker's Table, Butler's Pantry, Clementine's Naughty & Nice Creamery, Orlando Catering and Event Design, Pure Catering or Urban Chestnut Brewing Company—curated by Parker's Table to create your own memorable picnic in Forest Park!
Purchase raffle tickets here and see below for details about each experience:
Picnic with Butler's Pantry (Value $600)
Let a picnic in Forest Park exceed your expectations with a basket from Butler's Pantry. Use this gift card to create a one-of-a-kind experience.Picnic with Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Ice Creamery (Value: $350)
Dessert comes first when it's Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Ice Creamery! With this gift card, your party of fifteen (15) can start your picnic in Forest Park with a sweet treat.Picnic with Orlando’s Catering & Event Design (Value $600)
Transform a picnic into a memorable experience in Forest Park with Orlando’s Catering & Event Design. Use this gift card to couple high quality food with unique and dramatic presentations.Picnic with Parker's Table (Value $300) & Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza (Value $600)
Enjoy a getaway to the heart of St. Louis with a 2-night stay at the Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza, and high-quality wine, food and memories in Forest Park with a curated picnic basket from Parker's Table.Picnic with Pure Catering (Value $350)
Have a menu to match your favorite picnic spot when Pure Catering packs the basket. Use this gift card to choose from creative menus with traditional comfort food mixed with global flavors.Picnic with Urban Chestnut Brewing Company (Value $350)
Your rain plan is covered with Urban Chestnut Brewing Company's Private Party Experience. Choose any four (4) pizzas plus $50 for drinks, and in case it rains, use UCBC's Grove event space for up to 60 guests.
Raffle ticket purchases directly supports the daily care of Forest Park, enhancing the Park’s accessibility and appeal to St. Louisans and its position as a must-see destination and favorite picnic spot for all!
Can I purchase raffle tickets if I am unable to attend the event?
Yes! This year you are able to participate in the raffle if you are unable to attend. If you are announced as a winner are not in attendance, you will be notified by email.
In order to participate, you must be in the St. Louis area and be available to pick up the raffle prize from the Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor and Education Center by Friday, June 14, 2024. Purchase raffle tickets here.
Raffle ticket purchases directly supports the daily care of Forest Park, enhancing the Park’s accessibility and appeal to St. Louisans and its position as a must-see destination and favorite picnic spot for all!
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 contact hatluncheon@forestparkforever.org or call 314.561.3445
“We are so grateful for the outpouring of support we receive at the annual Forest Park Forever Hat Luncheon. It’s inspiring to see so many people gather in recognition of what an important civic treasure Forest Park is for our community. Thanks to our co-chairs, Women’s Committee members, sponsors and fashion-forward attendees, the Hat Luncheon is always a day to remember.”