On Monday, October 20, 2008, the Curtis Symphony Season Premiere Gala was held at the Park Hyatt at the Bellevue in Center City. Guests enjoyed cocktails and dinner at the Bellevue before moving to the Kimmel Center for the Curtis Symphony Orchestra concert with conductor Peter Oundjian and viola soloist Teng Li. Proceeds benefited the Student Assistance Fund. Photography by Jean E. Brubaker and Candace diCarlo

On Sunday, October 19, 2008, The Friends of the American Cancer Society held the eighth annual Party With A Purpose at the Crystal Tea Room of the Wanamaker Building. The masquerade gala featured food, cocktails, entertainment, raffles, and live and silent auctions. Proceeds benefited cancer research. Michele Corbman Photography

On Friday, October 17, 2008, the Pier Shops at Caesars hosted Oktoberfest, featuring over 30 beers from around the world. Phillips Seafood, Sonsie, Buddakan, The Continental, Game On!, Sonsie, Souzai, and The Trinity Pub served hor d'oeuvres.

On Friday, October 17, 2008, Philadelphia magazine’s Global Food & Wine Event, sponsored by Infiniti, took place at The Philadelphia Marriott Downtown. The event featured more than 50 wineries from Capital Wine & Spirits’ portfolio, paired with tasty samples from 20 of Rittenhouse Row’s finest restaurants.

On Saturday, October 11, 2008, the Loews Philadelphia Hotel hosted the 2008 Gala Election. Guests enjoyed musical parodies, a mock hardball debate with "Barack Obama" and "John McCain," an auction, and dinner and dancing. Photography by Jeff Fusco.