34th Annual Big Apple Bash
When: Saturday, November 8, 2025
Where: New York City, N.Y.
Thanks to the leadership of American Packaging Corporation and LiDestri Foods, and the generosity of our Camp community, the Big Apple Bash has raised an astounding $20 million over the past three decades to support Hole in the Wall’s year-round programs for children with serious illnesses and their families.
We look forward to welcoming longtime and new Camp friends back to Manhattan for an unforgettable evening packed with a “hole” lot of fun for the entire family including cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dinner and dessert buffets, musical performances and so much more.
If you're interested in attending, or have any questions, please contact Sam Klozik at (203) 745-2721 or via email.
There's still time to support the 33rd Annual Big Apple Bash by clicking below to donate.
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33RD ANNUAL BIG APPLE BASH
Saturday, November 9, 2024
On a breezy November night in Central Park, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp held the 33rd Annual Big Apple Bash at the iconic Tavern on the Green. With the generous support of “Bandit Brigade” Presenting Sponsors American Packaging Corporation and LiDestri Foods, and thanks to the dedication of hundreds of Camp champions, more than $1.8 million was raised to support our growing programs.
Over 450 guests explored themed rooms throughout the venue: Neon Night, Enchanted Garden, Under the Sea, Roaring 20’s, and Winter Wonderland. To the delight of all, costume characters could be found strolling about, taking photos, and sharing smiles around every turn. Mr. and Mrs. Met greeted guests (even Yankees fans!) with high-fives and hugs. Balloonologists, caricaturists, arts and crafts, and a Speed of Light game provided hours of endless fun for all. DJ tunes kept guests on their feet dancing to crowd favorites throughout the night. Just when guests thought they had seen it all, an LED butterfly made a magnificent appearance, with colorful wings illuminating her pathway. Hors d’oeuvres, dinner buffets, cocktails, mocktails and a hot chocolate and apple cider bar rounded out the offerings.
Kicking off the program, camper Nate took to the stage as the evening’s dynamic host, sharing how he benefitted from attending Camp alongside other kids with sickle cell disease. Hole in the Wall’s CDO Robin Farrell expressed gratitude for the remarkable friendship of the Bash community and CEO Jimmy Canton offered Hole in the Wall updates and stories highlighting the impact of the community’s philanthropy. Camper Cameron brought the laughter as he told his favorite jokes and he and his dad Brendan joined together to share how Camp has impacted their lives following Cameron’s acute lymphoblastic leukemia diagnosis. Bash Co-Chairs Stefani LiDestri and Peter Schottland exuded appreciation for the hundreds of partners who helped make this year’s fundraising success possible. After camper Jayla conveyed how Hole in the Wall has given her a sense of belonging, she wowed guests with a self-choreographed dance routine. Closing out the program, Broadway star and Hole in the Wall friend Ana Villafañe reflected on her experience as a former camper challenged with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and how she found a sense of community with other kids who understood. Guests were inspired by Ana’s sentiments, and entertained by her talents, as she performed a three-song set that included a duet with Angel Sigala. Shake Rattle & Roll dueling pianos kept spirits high and the music going, closing out the night with requests and singalongs.