Boots & Ballgowns

Saturday, November 14

Pull on your boots, dress up your denim and add a little western sparkle for Boots & Ballgowns, an immersive fall gala benefiting Indian Paintbrush Farm Sanctuary. For one unforgettable evening, western elegance meets heartfelt purpose as The Gilmore is transformed for a celebration of compassion, connection and community.

A Special Evening

Boots & Ballgowns isn't your typical fundraiser. It's an experience designed to bring the heart of Indian Paintbrush Farm Sanctuary to you. From the moment you arrive, expect an evening filled with great food, entertainment, surprises and plenty of western style. Come dressed in your finest upscale western attire–boots, ballgowns, denim, rhinestones, bolo ties and cowboy hats are all welcome–and settle in for a night that's equal parts celebration and purpose. Your ticket includes an evening of experiences created to entertain, inspire and connect you with the mission you're helping support.

Evening Highlights

  • 🤠 Upscale Western Attire: Dress it up, western style. Think boots and ballgowns, denim and diamonds, rhinestones, bolo ties and your best cowboy hat.

  • 🍽️ Premium Passed Hors d'Oeuvres: Enjoy chef-curated selections from award-winning Gilmore Catering throughout the evening.

  • 🍸 Themed Cocktails & Cash Bar: Raise a glass with specialty drinks inspired by the evening, plus a full cash bar.

  • 🎶 Live Music: Enjoy live entertainment that brings energy and atmosphere to the celebration.

  • 🐴 Meet the Animals: Get up close with four beloved residents of Indian Paintbrush Farm Sanctuary and discover the stories behind the lives your support helps protect.

  • 🎁 Silent Auction: Bid on an outstanding collection of experiences, merchandise, dining, entertainment and services generously donated by businesses throughout West Michigan.

  • 🔥 Live Auction: Get ready to bid big on exceptional packages, including unforgettable getaways, unique experiences, premium services and other can't-miss opportunities.

  • ❤️ Stories With Purpose: Discover the animals, people and mission behind Indian Paintbrush Farm and see firsthand what your support makes possible.

Make A Big Impact!

Boots & Ballgowns sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses, organizations and individuals who want to make an even greater difference for the animals of Indian Paintbrush Farm Sanctuary. Sponsorship packages include event recognition and special opportunities to connect your name or organization with our mission of compassion and care.

A Special Setting

Boots & Ballgowns takes place at The Gilmore, a distinctive West Michigan event venue just north of downtown Grand Rapids. Its Mid-Century Modern and Art Deco-inspired surroundings provide an elegant backdrop for the evening's elevated western event!

Meet The Animals

Tonight, you have the opportunity to meet several of our beloved animal ambassadors–Olaf the cow, Sherman the pig, and Calypso the horse. At Indian Paintbrush Farm Sanctuary, we believe that meaningful relationships with animals can change the way we see and value all living beings. Our animals are not here for entertainment. They are here only because they have demonstrated that they enjoy human interaction, and their welfare always comes first. Each ambassador has a quiet space where they can retreat at any time. Participation is voluntary, and if an animal chooses not to interact, we respect that choice immediately. We invite you to slow down, observe, listen, and experience these animals as individuals–with their own personalities, preferences, relationships, and emotions. Our hope is that one meaningful encounter can create a lasting connection: that when we see a cow, pig, horse, chicken, or goat as an individual rather than simply as a commodity, compassion becomes easier. Tonight isn't about what the animals can give us. It's about what we can learn from them.