On Thursday, April 16, 2026, the Baton Rouge Symphony League will host their 77th Annual Mad Hatters Luncheon at the Crowne Plaza Baton Rouge. This year’s highly anticipated event will transport guests OUT OF THIS WORLD with a celestial-inspired theme, transforming the ballroom into a dazzling galaxy of imagination, creativity, and style.
The day will begin with an exclusive VIP Party, honoring the generous sponsors whose continued support makes this signature event possible. Guests will then step into an immersive experience filled with extraordinary fashion, cosmic elegance, and unforgettable moments.
Attendees will arrive in their most imaginative, over-the-top hats inspired by the cosmos—think shimmering stars, midnight skies, metallics, and galactic glamour. Guests will enjoy iced champagne while browsing an exciting collection of silent auction items generously donated by local businesses.
This year’s raffle offerings promise to be more exciting than ever. Guests will have the opportunity to enter to win:
- A stunning sapphire and diamond ring generously donated by Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry
- A fabulous $2,500 shopping experience at Dillard’s
The always-anticipated fashion show will celebrate the season’s most coveted styles, featuring curated looks from local boutiques: LUKKA, Emily Katherine, Hemline – Town Center, and Chatta Box Boutique. The show will be emceed by returning favorite Melanie Hebert alongside the beloved Mad Hatter himself, Leonard Augustus, whose signature energy and charm make him a highlight of the event.
Guests will also compete for coveted hat awards, judged by a distinguished panel, celebrating creativity, design, and show-stopping style across multiple categories.
This year’s event is chaired by Dr. Gunjan Raina and Co-Chaired by Casey Rayborn Hicks, with Donna McNeillserving as Honorary Chair. A dedicated member of the League for over 42 years, Donna’s longstanding commitment and impact continue to shape the organization’s legacy. Together, they carry forward the Baton Rouge Symphony League’s tradition of supporting music education and enriching the cultural arts in our community.
The Baton Rouge Symphony League extends sincere gratitude to this year’s generous sponsors, whose support helps make the Mad Hatters Luncheon possible:
Bruno Real Estate Group, Judith Vitanza-Kattan, Coleman Consulting Group, Metropolitan Health Group, D-Bat Baton Rouge, HEAL Wellness, Dr. Gunjan Raina, Code 4 Communications, Baton Rouge Parents Magazine/Family Resource Group, Inc., inRegister, Lamar Advertising, B1 Bank, Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, Sigma Engineers & Constructors, Fiero Essentials by Dr. Icy, Hamideh Property Management LLC, Allstate – Aldreamia Omar, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, Christopher Graham, Stephanie Jackson and The Hurtado Family, Corbin Ladner Custom Homes, Phil’s Oyster Bar & Seafood, The Colonel’s Club, Luckett Portrait Studio, The Vine Christian Bookstore & Gifts, Forte & Tablada, Southern Pipe & Supply, The 121, FMOL Health, and Modern Belle.
For more information on the Baton Rouge Symphony League, please visit their website or follow along on social media @batonrougesymphonyleague for event updates and highlights.