Dracula Ball: The 2017 Gala Under Glass at the Conservatory of Flowers

This October, be seduced by beauty at the Conservatory of Flowers' Dracula Ball. The annual gala under glass celebrates the Conservatory's unique, public collection of highland orchids including its many alluring Dracula orchids, native to the cloud forests of Central and South America and particularly abundant in the Andes. This year's event supports the renovation of the Highland Tropics Gallery and the enhancement of the rare orchid collection it houses.

The gala is a chance to experience the enchantment of this lovely San Francisco landmark at night and includes botanical cocktails, savory bites, a live auction, and an array of experiences designed by Carina Hessmer of Entire Productions that highlight the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the tropics. Guests can enjoy performances by Tezkatlipoka Aztec Dance and Drum, Poet Laureate Alejandro Murguia, and techno-opera Diva Marisa Lenhardt. Tigerlily Perfumery will be on hand with a variety of scents to sample, and The Poetry Store will create personalized verse on the spot for guests. Wrecking Ball Coffee, Dandelion Chocolate, and Humphry Slocombe satisfy cravings for some of the more tempting flavors of the tropics. The Bay Area's finest caterers will provide innovative tropic-inspired menus in each Gallery.

The evening continues at the Gaslamp Fantasy After Party with music, dancing, performances, artful illuminations on the building, and more to savor and sip. The After Party, designed by Daybreaker's Mustafa Khan and Carina Hessmer, features Justin Martin of Dirtybird, live music by Tumbledown House and Cello Joe, and more.