Alliance for Education Annual Gala & Auction FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I register? Is there a deadline?
Tickets are $300 per person. You can register online at https://alliance4ed.ejoinme.org/2025Registration
Registration will officially close at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, April 9, 2024, or when the event reaches capacity.
What if I have dietary restrictions or other special needs?
We can accommodate most dietary restrictions such as food allergies, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, etc. Please let us know before the event by adding a note in the special accommodations text box on the online registration form. We will make our best effort to accommodate your request.
What is the Attire?
Event attire for the Pearl Gala is formal cocktail attire.
What is the venue? Which Hyatt is this located at?
There are multiple Hyatt hotels in downtown -- all near each other, even! We are located in the Leonesa ballroom at the Grand Hyatt Seattle. The Grand Hyatt is located at 721 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101. For landmark references, the Grand Hyatt is anchored my businesses like Ruth’s Chris Steak House, The Cheesecake Factory and Starbucks.
Is there a Discounted Room Rate?
Information to be added
I am not able to attend the Gala, but want to donate, can I do that?
Yes! Your donation helps us ensure that Seattle Public Schools continue to shine as the pearl of our community—resilient, vibrant, and full of potential. You can support our mission to advance educational justice and equity for every student with a donation online: https://alliance4ed.ejoinme.org/2025MakeAGift
What time does the event begin?
The event begins with a hosted tray-pass wine reception and silent auction at 5:30 p.m., the live program and dinner begins at 7 p.m. and the after party with a DJ will follow around 9 p.m.
Where can I Park?
Valet, ramp and street parking is available. More details will be added closer to the event and communicated ahead of time to attendees!
Where can I arrive via rideshare or dropoff?
Rideshare apps like Lyft, Uber or taxis can drop off guests at the front entrance of the Grant Hyatt Seattle hotel on Pine St. at the corner of 8th and Pine. There is a courtesy, covered drive up space for guests to enter and exit.
Is the venue accessible by public transit?
The Grand Hyatt is in the heart of downtown, less than 2 blocks from Sound Transit’s Link light rail Westlake Station stop. Follow station signage for exit A1 toward Nordstrom for the shortest walk to the venue. The Seattle Center Monorail and South Lake Union Seattle Streetcar are 3 blocks walk. As well, nearly every King County Metro and Sound Transit bus stop is near the venue.
Is it possible to bid on Live Auction items if I can’t attend?
Yes! A few days before the event, you will receive access to view the auction catalog online. If you see an item you’d like to bid on but cannot attend, you can bid by proxy. Please contact Events Coordinator Catrina Coulson to make arrangements at catrina@alliance4ed.org.
Will there be entertainment?
Yes! Throughout the evening there will be raffles, live music, a wine wall, a student performance and more! Toward the end of the Live Auction, we hold a Dessert Dash which is a fun, entertaining and delicious part of the program! To end the evening, we host an After Party in the room adjacent to the ballroom with a DJ, dancing and late-night desserts!
What is the Dessert Dash?
The Dessert Dash is a fun and fast-paced event where tables bid for first dibs on an array of scrumptious desserts. The highest bidding table sends a "runner" to dash for their dessert first! Everyone at your table will have an opportunity to contribute any amount they wish. Designate a dessert runner and when your table number is called, your runner quickly dashes and grabs a decadent dessert!
