The highly anticipated McCord Stewart Museum Sugar Ball once again captivated attendees with its promise of indulgent treats and an electrifying atmosphere, all for a noble cause. Held at the historical, newly revamped 9th floor in downtown Montreal’s Eaton Centre, the evening transported guests to a realm of Art Deco elegance and cultural celebration.

Sweet extravaganza

The Sugar Ball didn’t just offer an abundance of sweets—although there was plenty of that—it also served up a feast for the eyes. Guests were welcomed with a vibrant display of sweet and savoury treats, ensuring that every taste bud was tantalized throughout the night. From cotton candy to gourmet bites, the Sugar Ball kept everyone buzzing with excitement. We couldn’t resist indulging in the cannolis or the cotton candy, and towards the end of the night, we topped it off with a delicious poutine for the perfect savoury touch. If you’ve never experienced the joy of cotton candy while wearing an evening gown, you might be missing out. All this deliciousness was courtesy of the event’s hospitality partners, including Café Olímpico, Le Richmond, Pangea, Ferreira Café, and more.

Other partner brands including Christian Dior, set up a booth on-site, providing guests with the opportunity to receive makeup touch-ups. Notably, the event’s presenter, Holt Renfrew Ogilvy, has been a longstanding supporter of the Museum’s exhibitions and events, and its dedication to Montreal’s rich cultural heritage.

A historic revival

The ambiance was nothing short of electric, as guests mingled and danced against the backdrop of the iconic 9th Floor of the Eaton Centre, which reopened its doors after 25 years for this special occasion. This historic landmark holds a special significance in Montreal’s collective memory, with its roots tracing back to the grandeur of the 1930s when a 600-seat restaurant graced its ninth floor. Inaugurated in early 1931, the restaurant also hosted various events, including fashion shows that would become a company tradition until the 1960s. The venue has been beautifully restored, captivating Ball attendees with its elegant Art Deco interior reminiscent of large ocean liners, a type of passenger ship used for transportation across seas and oceans.

Supporting Montreal’s cultural legacy

The Ball’s significance extends beyond its glamorous facade. Inspired by the Museum’s exhibitions on photography and fashion, such as Norman Parkinson: Always in Style, the Young McCord Philanthropist Committee orchestrated an unforgettable evening that not only satisfied attendees’ sweet cravings but also contributed to a greater cause. The Sugar Ball raised nearly $900,000 in support of the Museum’s mission to preserve and promote cultural heritage through innovative exhibitions and educational programs.

All proceeds from the Sugar Ball are directed towards supporting the educational and cultural initiatives benefiting over 10,000 school-aged children and youths. This philanthropic gesture underscores the commitment of both organizers and attendees to making a meaningful impact on the community.

All images are courtesy of Sugar Ball.