As Ottawa’s winter chill sets in, the warmth of community spirit takes centre stage at SnowBall: A Cool Winter’s Eve, The Snowsuit Fund’s sought-after gala happening at the Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) on Wednesday, February 12th. Proceeds from SnowBall go toward purchasing, storing, and distributing snowsuits directly to underserved children in the community.
Last year’s event raised $95,000 and sold out weeks in advance. This year’s edition promises to surpass that total with the support of attendees and sponsors.
An Evening to Remember
SnowBall will transform three floors of the OAG into a vibrant, multi-experience celebration for over 400 guests. Attendees will enjoy unique and immersive experiences on each level, including:
- Sumptuous décor creating a chic and elegant atmosphere.
- Chef stations featuring gourmet cuisine from some of Ottawa’s top chefs.
- Bars serving wine, beer, signature cocktails and mocktails.
- Live music and DJ performances from bands like Electric Company.
- Experiential surprises such as a photo booth and beauty and fragrance bars.
- Silent and live auctions featuring exclusive items and experiences.
A History of Impact
SnowBall’s inaugural edition, held just before the pandemic, quickly established itself as one of Ottawa’s must-attend social events, following in the footsteps of The Snowsuit Fund Gala—a beloved fixture on the city’s social calendar for decades. This year’s event aims to build on that momentum, with an ambitious fundraising goal to support the growing need for snowsuits in the community.
Why It Matters
This year, The Snowsuit Fund expects to distribute nearly 19,000 snowsuits to disadvantaged children aged 15 and under—the largest number in its 43-year history. With Ottawa’s growing population and the rising cost of living, more families are forced to choose between essential needs like food, shelter, and warm clothing for their children.
“We’re a community that likes to embrace winter,” says Martin Masse, chair of the board for The Snowsuit Fund and senior partner at global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright, one of SnowBall’s lead sponsors. “Giving kids a new snowsuit means they can go out and play, like other kids.” Masse’s personal connection to the initiative is evident in his volunteer work at the Snowsuit Fund’s Vanier depot, where he’s seen the joy on children’s faces as they pick out their new snowsuits.
A Star-Studded Networking Event With Purpose
Underscoring deep community support for the cause, SnowBall attendees not only experience a night of luxury and entertainment but also a chance to network with many other community-minded leaders. Last year’s event saw the attendance of notable figures like Michael and Lucie Andlauer, the new owners of the Ottawa Senators, along with senior executives and players from the team. Lucie and her adult children, as well as the hockey players’ wives, also volunteer annually at The Snowsuit Fund depot.
SnowBall’s growing list of corporate supporters includes:
- Norton Rose Fulbright LLP
- Intega IT
- BMO/Nesbitt Burns
- Humen Kind
- Lansdowne Consulting Group
- Star Motors
- Rogers Sports & Media
- Ottawa Business Journal
- Tim Hortons Ottawa Franchise Owners
- Expedia Cruises (Westboro & Kanata)
Gourmet Chefs on the Scene
Some of Ottawa’s top culinary talents will showcase their skills at SnowBall’s chef stations. Notable names include: Ben Baird from Pelican Seafood; David Godsoe from Sidedoor, Restaurant e18hteen, and Social; chefs from Vittoria Trattoria; and chefs from Norca & Jackson Café (Le Germain Hotel Ottawa), with more to be announced in coming weeks.
Looking Ahead
This year’s SnowBall will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of Ottawa’s social season. As attendees dance the night away to disco-funk beats, bid on exclusive auction items, and indulge in gourmet bites, they’ll be making a profound impact on the lives of children in need. The Snowsuit Fund’s mission is to ensure that every child in Ottawa can play outside – regardless of financial circumstance — with the help of events like SnowBall. Together, the community’s warmth and generosity will ensure that Ottawa’s children are ready to face the winter ahead — snowsuit and all.
Become a SnowBall sponsor or buy tickets. Find out more at Snowsuitfund.com
