BCE's Annual Fundraising Soirée & Auction is back!
- brigitte994
- Sep 30
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 21
Saddle Up Soirée and Live Auction
Saturday, March 21, 2026
@CuriOdyssey in San Mateo
This year, BCE is bringing a one-of-a-kind evening where country chic meets ranch-style charm in the spectacular Redwood Room at CuriOdyssey. 🌵
🤠 Step into a night of live music, tasty eats, and spirited company as we come together to celebrate generosity, friendship, and the bright future of our students. Guests will enjoy rustic elegance, lively energy, and heartfelt gratitude, all in support of Burlingame Public Schools. Get ready to dust off your boots, tip your hats, and ride along with us! 🐎
About the Soirée
- 5:30 pm: Check-in, Cocktails and Strolling Dinner Reception 🥂
- 8:00 pm: Sit Down Bites & Desserts, Live Auction and Fund-a-Dream
- 9:00 pm: Dance party with Electric Rodeo live band 💃
- 11:00 pm: Event concludes
Tickets will go on sale January 2026.
Why should you attend?
Whether you are a parent, teacher, alumni, local business or community member, this event is for everyone who believes in the power of education and wants to make a difference.
Enjoy an adults only night out socializing with your Community, raising your paddle high in support of our schools and dancing the night away.
If this is your first time attending this event, check out the recap of last years event. to see how much fun and generosity the evening holds—you won’t want to miss it!
Consider donating to BCE's Live and Online Auctions
BCE depends on the generosity of the community to donate items to support our annual live (Mar 21, 2026) and online (Mar 13-23, 2026) auctions.
We’re seeking generous donations—whether it’s unique experiences, sports or concert tickets, a weekend getaway home, airline miles, wine, art, or hosting a fun party.
If you’d like to donate an item, simply fill out this online donation form or drop Brigitte Dean a note. If you are interested in donation an that we can auction to support BCE, with 100% of proceeds going back to our schools.
Calling All Volunteers!
If you're interested in volunteering for our March 21, 2026 Fundraising Soirée, we would love to have you join our team! Whether you're experienced in fundraising or new to the process, your support will have a big impact. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a difference while engaging with the community.
Volunteer needs include:
Soliciting exciting auction items that will be featured during the Live and Online Auctions.
Reaching out to local businesses, donors, and contacts to gather unique and valuable items that will drive bids.
Day of help with setting up the venue, ensuring everything runs smoothly, and assisting during the event to ensure guests have an amazing experience.
Sign up online or simply reach out to our Co-VP of Events, Davina Chall and Vidya Nathu at events@bcefoundation.org and we’ll provide you with all the details you need to get started!
Thank you to our Soirée Title Sponsor
More questions? Read our FAQs
What is the BCE Soirée and how is different from a Gala?
Based on feedback, BCE has revitalized its Annual Fundraising Event to incorporate more time for mingling with a new, fresh layout and format. In our 3rd year, BCE's "Annual Fundraising Soirée," is our refreshed, adult-only fundraising evening affair, where attendees will partake in an array of food selections, drinks, dessert, entertainment, and the Live Auction. Most importantly, the evening will continue to feature the ever-critical Fund-A-Dream where guests donate to support our programs and teacher salaries.
Do I have to be part of Scholars Circle to attend?
No. The BCE Fundraising Soirée is open to everyone.
Do I get to choose my seat?
Kind of. As part of the new format, you will be assigned a table to sit at for the Auction and Fund a Dream portion of the event. The rest of the evening, guests will have the opportunity to choose from a wide selection of delicious food and drinks, dance and mingle in a way that suits them best.
Is there a dress code for the Annual Soirée?
This year's theme is "Saddle Up Soirée." Guests are invited to dress in rustic elegance aligned to the theme. But most important is you feeling great about what you are wearing.
Can I purchase tickets at the door?
No. We are unable to sell tickets at the door.
Can I participate in the Live Auction even if I don't attend?
Our Live Auction offers exclusive packages (destination travel, dining experiences, and more) which are available to Soirée attendees. If you are unable to attend, contact Brigitte Dean to set up a proxy and ensure you’re still part of this meaningful evening. In addition, the Online Auction will be open to all on March 13th, 2026.
Can I be a volunteer for the night of the event?
Yes! We'd love you to volunteers to help with the event. Please contact soireechair@bcefoundation.org to sign up to volunteer in advance of the event..
Does the price of the ticket count toward my annual contribution to BCE?
BCE is deeply grateful for your participation of the Fundraising Soirée. As per BCE's Gift Listing Policy, only donations of cash, stock/securities, automobiles immediately liquidated to cash, and employer matching gifts will determine a donor's annual campaign donation and listing level in BCE's annual report. Your Fund-A-Dream contribution does count toward your family's annual gift listing level.
