Alliance for Education Pearl 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/2026Register
Registration will officially close at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 16, 2026, 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 gala is formal cocktail attire. Our theme this year is inspired by the natural Pacific Northwest environment of rich, emerald greens. Guests are encouraged to be creative and dress with the theme.
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 Columbia ballroom on the third floor at the Hyatt Regency Seattle. The Hyatt Regency Seattle is located at 808 Howell St, Seattle, WA 98101. (Google Maps). For landmark references, the Hyatt Regency is at the corner of Olive Way, Howell St, and 8th Ave. It is anchored by restaurant Daniel’s Broiler and across the street from Mr. West and Just Poke
I am not able to attend the Gala, but want to donate, can I do that?
Yes! In the face of rising need and uncertainty, your gift helps safeguard and strengthen the future of our Seattle Public Schools students, families and educators. You can support our mission to advance educational justice and equity for every student with a donation online: https://alliance4ed.ejoinme.org/2026Donation
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?
Paid self-parking is available at the Hyatt Regency Seattle Garage that is underneath the venue. The garage address is 1812 8th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101(Google Maps) with entrances on both 8th & 9th Ave between Stewart St. and Howell St. Please use the elevators in the garage to arrive at the 3rd floor Columbia ballroom.
We cannot guarantee parking availability due to hotel guest priority and would recommend additional parking at the Seattle Convention Center garages nearby.
Valet parking is not available at this time.
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 Hyatt Regency Seattle by entering the porte cochere drop-off lane from 9th Ave. There is a courtesy, covered drive up space for guests to enter and exit.
Is the venue accessible by public transit?
The Hyatt Regency is in the heart of downtown, 3 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 3-4 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 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 the ballroom with a DJ and dancing!
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!
