Co-chairs Leigh Thorpe and Annie Orillac Thibodeaux welcomed over 1,000 guests to the ninth annual “Martini Madness” event, sponsored by Friends of City Park.
Republic National Distributing Company provided over 30 specialty martinis for the occasion. The bartenders got creative with the libations, offering guests such concoctions as the Campfire Martini, featuring Smirnoff Fluffed Marshmallow vodka, and the Honeysuckle Martini, mixed with Stoli Sticki honey-flavored vodka. Dining options included fare from a variety of local restaurants, including Ralph’s on the Park, Tony Mandina’s and Theo’s Neighborhood Pizza.
Martinis and hors d’oeuvres in hand, guests could choose to chill out and chat outside by the soothing sounds of Ashley Toman’s harp, or boogie down inside the Arbor Room with MOD Dance Party, the popular DJ duo that spins tunes exclusively from the 1960s.
The proceeds, netting over $26,000, will fund a new train car for the miniature train, the second oldest ride in City Park’s Amusement Park. The annual fundraiser selects a project to fund based on a vote by the Friends of City Park Board. The Arbor Room at Popp Fountain played host to this year’s “Martini Madness,” and has itself received over $500,000 in renovations from various fundraising events sponsored by the Friends of City Park.
Event at a Glance
What: 9th annual “Martini Madness,” benefiting Friends of City Park.
When: Friday, September 21
Where: Arbor Room at Popp Fountain, City Park
