Palm Beach’s Red Cross Ball

Palm Beach stands as the esteemed abode of the world’s preeminent families and industry titans, adorned with a social season marked by iconic galas. In 1957, luminaries and society’s elite first gathered in a glittering ballroom at the behest of Majorie Merriweather Post to support her favorite charity, the American Red Cross.

Since its founding by Clara Barton on May 21, 1881, the American Red Cross has steadfastly devoted itself to aiding those in distress. The South Florida Region, comprising of chapters in Palm Beach and the Treasure Coast, Broward County, Greater Miami, and The Keys, and the Florida Gulf Coast to Heartland counties, promptly responds to emergencies and disasters on average once a day throughout the region—ranging from home fires to floods—and offers shelter, food, clothing, and compassionate support at no expense to those in need.

For its inaugural Palm Beach gala, Post summoned ambassadors from Washington and filled the guest list with the social register. Known for her humanitarian spirit, impeccable style, and grace, Post’s touch ensured that the Red Cross Ball was an instant success. Today—more than six decades since its inception—it remains one of the most coveted invitations in Palm Beach. 

Over time, the event has embraced a multitude of themes and welcomed an array of distinguished personalities—from Estée Lauder and Marylou Whitney to politicians and global dignitaries. Following a three-year hiatus enforced by the challenges posed by COVID-19, the 2023 affair attracted an unprecedented number of ambassadors and diplomats, elevating the excitement for the forthcoming ball to new heights. The highly anticipated 63rd International Red Cross Ball will take place at The Breakers Palm Beach on January 6, 2024, under the chairmanship of Palm Beach residents Charles and Amanda Schumacher. “Charles and I are thrilled to be the Chairmen of the International Red Cross Ball – for the second year in a row – and we invite you to join us for a memorable evening at this historic Palm Beach event that attracts diplomats from around the world,” said Amanda Schumacher. “The American Red Cross is hard at work every day supporting families recovering from devastating disasters, like Hurricane Idalia and the Maui wildfires, while providing lifesaving blood products and caring for the servicemen and women of our nation. The International Red Cross Ball raises critical funds to continue that support. Join us as we celebrate the shared commitment of the Red Cross mission to make a difference beyond the ballroom.”