EVENTS

Join us at the official I-24 launch party! Set amid the backdrop of the Space Needle, MoPOP is a leading-edge museum designed by internationally acclaimed architect Frank O. Gehry. MoPOP’s mission is to make creative expression a life changing force by offering experiences that inspire and connect our communities. Enjoy this exclusive experience as you meander through an exciting collection of exhibitions, rich pop culture content, unparalleled technology and a variety of unique spaces! Lift off in the Sky Church, named after a concept from Jimi Hendrix of a place where people from all backgrounds and beliefs could come together through the power of music, and enjoy quintessential Seattle eats and beats!

Meet in the lobby beginning at 6:30 p.m. Buses will be on a continuous loop. Post event - buses will drop at both the Queen Anne Beer Hall (After Party) and the hotel.

Welcome Reception Chair: Brittnie Wilkinson of Wilkinson Events

Join us for our highly anticipated Annual Meeting, where we will review the past year's milestones, recognize the invaluable contributions of our key volunteers, and proudly install our new Board of Governors. Let’s celebrate our collective achievements and set the stage for the exciting journey ahead. As we look to the future, we’ll discuss the strategic direction and innovative initiatives that will drive ILEA forward. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, celebrate and be inspired by the vision for what's to come as ILEA goes FORWARD. #WeAreILEA

Ping Pong, Play On! After our Dine Around Restaurant Night, bounce on over to SPIN Seattle to find out who is the real King of Ping is at this After Party event.

Event Chairs: David Schwartz of Orion Entertainment + Jana Heinrichs of CORT Party Rental

Don't miss this drop in, casual reception where you can rehydrate and say goodbye as we return back down to earth.

Event Chair: Deci Evans of Kind + Co Events

The SEARCH Foundation was formed in 1997 and exists to assist special event, meetings, and catering professionals faced with a life threatening illness or catastrophic occurrence. The Special Event Assistance, Relief + Crisis Help Foundation is for event pros, by event pros. The foundation has helped in over 250 cases and distributed over $1M in relief funds. Join us for this After Party and help raise funds by Sipping for SEARCH!

After Party Chairs: David Schwartz of Orion Entertainment + Jana Heinrichs of CORT Party Rental

Enjoy Seattle’s foodie scene while connecting with fellow members! Spend the evening in deeper networking and conversation while enjoying incredible food and the opportunity to explore the Emerald City. Upon checking in for registration at the conference you will have the opportunity to view the restaurant reservation, cuisine type and host list, and to sign up. Then, meet in the lobby the night of and look for your restaurant sign to join your fellow diners. ILEA Board of Governors + ILEA Seattle Conference Committee members will serve as informal hosts. *Dinner is covered by each individual attending.

Restaurant Options:

Bar Del Corso $$ - Pizza

Cora Pizza and Plates $ - Pizza/American

Cutters Crabhouse $$ - PNW/ Seafood

Dukes Seafood  $$ - Seafood

Fuji Sushi $$ - Seafood/Sushi

Half Shell  $$ - Seafood

Ivar's Acres of Clams $$ - PNW

Limonchello Belltown $$ - Italian

Lola Seattle $$ - Mediterranean

Neb $$ - Italian

Rhein Haus $$ - German/ Bar Food

Serious Pie $$ - Pizza

Ti22 $$ - Thai

Tyger Tyger $$ - New Asian

Zig Zag Cafe $$$ - Craft Cocktails/ Seafood/ Bar Food

Event Chair: Gazala Uradnik of GFS Events

Prepare to enter a dimension where imagination knows no bounds. You are cordially invited to the most anticipated event of the year—the 2024 Esprit Awards Gala – Celestial Gardens. Join us and be transported into an astral wonderland, as we honor the brightest minds and groundbreaking achievements in the industry. This interstellar event will celebrate those who have dared to dream and push the boundaries of what is possible. As the galaxy’s finest gather, expect an evening filled with galactic entertainment, otherworldly libations, gastronomic delights, and cosmic discourse. This is your chance to connect with fellow visionaries and revel in a night of futuristic utopia.  

Attire: Cocktail

6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. – Reception

7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – Dinner + Awards Program

9:30 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. – Dancing + Dessert

Event Chairs: Shelly Tolo + Liz Sexton of Tolo Events