Tropical Glam Meets Modern Disco at Conservation Foundation’s Party in Paradise

January 10, 2024 – Osprey

In celebration of their 20^th Anniversary, Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast is thrilled to introduce Party in Paradise. An updated take on a cocktail party, Party in Paradise takes place at 5:30 pm on Saturday, February 3, at the not-for-profit land trust’s historic headquarters, Bay Preserve at Osprey (400 Palmetto Ave, Osprey, FL, 34229). Event proceeds support their vital mission to protect Southwest Florida’s land and water for the benefit of people and nature. Cornelia Matson is honorary chair.

“Party in Paradise is going to be unlike anything our community has seen before,” comments Sam Valentin, Conservation Foundation’s Director of Marketing and Events. “We are celebrating our 20^th Anniversary, so we wanted to do something extra special. We are very excited to host this unique new fundraiser to save more land and protect our own Southwest Florida paradise before it’s too late.”

Consisting of several distinct spaces, Party in Paradise is sure to offer an engaging experience for all. Those looking to dance the night away will enjoy the upbeat sounds of Deleon Band in the tented Island Dream Disco, sponsored by Richard and Cornelia Matson. The Golden Hour Lounge, sponsored by Gulf Coast Community Foundation and George and Mary Dee Hicks, offers a more intimate, laid-back experience with a backdrop of Little Sarasota Bay. Premium placement VIP sponsor tables – centrally located in the primary event space – ensure quick and easy access to all the party has to offer. 

Catered by Michael’s On East, Party in Paradise will feature a variety of culinary delights, including passed hors d’oeuvres and rotating food stations inspired by tropical destinations near and far. There will also be a dedicated dessert hour, ensuring no sweet tooth is left unsatisfied! Local distiller Siesta Key Rum is generously donating rum for the signature cocktails and will host a rum-tasting bar in the Golden Hour Lounge during the event. To help raise funds, partygoers will have the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind experiences in nature, and a fun and fast-paced paddle raise will take place following a brief program at 7:30 pm. 

The event ends at 10:30 pm, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! Conservation Foundation’s neighbor, Evie’s on the Bay (135 Bayview Dr., Osprey, 34229), is staying open late to host the Party in Paradise After Party at their Tiki Bar. A trolley shuttle will transport interested guests from Bay Preserve to Evie’s on the Bay at the conclusion of Party in Paradise for their convenience.

Tickets and sponsorships for Party in Paradise are available now and going fast. General admission tickets include unassigned, open seating. High-tops, cocktail tables, and lounge seating will be available throughout the event space. To learn more, secure your tickets/sponsorship, or view the tropical glam meets modern disco Pinterest attire inspiration board, visit conservationfoundation.com/paradise. Individual tickets are $300 each, and Conservation Foundation is offering a $50 discount to young professionals under 40. To secure discounted young professional tickets, please call 941.918.2100.