Hat Luncheon: Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Forest Park Forever Hat Luncheon?
Thank you for supporting our largest annual fundraiser. This year’s Hat Luncheon, taking place on Thursday, June 4, will be especially meaningful as we celebrate two major milestones: the 40th anniversary of Forest Park Forever and the 150th anniversary of Forest Park.

What is the Hat Luncheon?
The Hat Luncheon, Forest Park Forever's signature event and largest annual fundraiser, brings the community together to celebrate and benefit our beloved Forest Park. 

What do the proceeds from the Hat Luncheon benefit? 
Forest Park Forever's mission is to restore, maintain and sustain Forest Park. All proceeds from the event support the ongoing daily care, restoration, and enhancement of the Park, ensuring it remains a vibrant and beautiful space for everyone to enjoy—now and for generations to come.

Where do I get my ticket? 
Tickets to the Hat Luncheon may be purchased on our website (soon) for individual seats or tables of ten. A purchase confirmation will be sent to your email and will serve as your reservation for the event—no printed ticket is required.

Upon arrival at the World’s Fair Pavilion, you will receive a name tag, which serves as your “ticket” and includes your seating assignment. Forest Park Forever staff and volunteers will be on site to welcome guests and assist as needed.

What is the order of events at this year's Hat Luncheon? 

• Cocktail Reception begins at 11:30 a.m.

• Hat Contest judging during the cocktail reception

• Call to lunch at 12:15 p.m.

• Welcome at 12:30 p.m.

• Hat Contest Winners Announcement

• The event concludes at 2:00 p.m.

• Keep the fun going by posting your photos with #ForestParkHatLuncheon

What is the suggested attire? 
We invite all guests to don their favorite hat and embrace the spirit of the event—while keeping St. Louis summer weather in mind. Think summer-chic attire, and we recommend sensible shoes for comfortably enjoying a day outdoors in the Park.

Where do I park?
All Hat Luncheon guests are asked to park at the Festival and Parking Plaza at the Upper Muny Parking Lot. Continuous shuttle service will transport all guests to the World's Fair Pavilion and back.

Enter Forest Park at Hampton Avenue near the I-64 ramp and follow Hat Luncheon signage to the Festival & Parking Plaza at the Upper Muny Lot. Forest Park Forever staff will be available along the route for assistance.

What is the Hat Contest? 
The beloved Hat Contest is a longstanding tradition and a highlight of the Hat Luncheon program, bringing the event’s theme to life in a fun and interactive way that celebrates creativity and personal style. All Hat Luncheon attendees are eligible to participate.

To join the Hat Contest, guests will be directed to the promenade in front of the judges’ panel. Attendees are invited to don a hat of their choice and take part in the friendly competition, inspired by this year’s themed categories:

• Best Hat: Showcase your personal style to win this category. Five fashion-forward contestants will be chosen. With the exception of the Best Table Ensemble and Best Cultural Expression winners, all hats presented to the judges will be considered for this award.

• Best Table Ensemble: Share the spotlight with your whole table as a cohesive theme in this category. Only one table (one group of 10) will be chosen.

• Best Cultural Expression: Inspired by Forest Park as a gathering place, this category invites you to celebrate diversity by sharing your story through color, pattern, design and creativity. Five contestants will be chosen. With the exception of the Best Table Ensemble and Best Hat winners, all hats presented to the judges will be considered for this award.

Where can I find more information or have additional questions? 
Please visit the Hat Luncheon website for more detailed information regarding the event. If you do not find your answer there, please email us or call 314.561.3447.