Brad Smith Brad Smith/isiphotos.com
On April 25, Nashville’s philanthropic community will gather for one of spring’s most heartfelt evenings: Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee’s annual gala, The Greatest Wishes on Earth, featuring a whimsical big-top theme.
Held at the Four Seasons Hotel Nashville, the signature fundraiser transforms the downtown ballroom into a celebration of wonder — fitting for the children who benefit from the non-profit organization.
Now in its 13th year, the evening will be emceed by local wish kids Andie, 16, and Cooper, 18. Andie, who battled leukemia, wished to practice with the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team. She lived her dream in 2017. Cooper, who recently beat cancer, had his wish granted earlier this year to attend the Super Bowl.
The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception, followed by the main program at 7 p.m. Guests will hear powerful wish stories from local families, enjoy both silent and live auctions, and dine on a menu created by Four Seasons Nashville banquet chef, Patrick Hodge. One of the night’s most emotional moments comes when a local wish kid learns live during the event that their wish will soon be granted. The evening concludes with an after-party featuring dessert and dancing.
While the atmosphere is festive, the mission is deeply serious.
For more than four decades, Make-A-Wish Foundation has granted life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Years of family testimony prove that a wish can improve emotional health, encourage kids to accept treatment, and offer parents much-needed optimism during their medical crisis.
The organization began in 1980 when a 7-year-old boy, Chris Greicius, wished to become a police officer. The effort to make his dream come true inspired volunteers to create what would become Make-A-Wish. Today, the charity serves communities across the United States and around the world.
The annual gala is the Middle Tennessee chapter’s biggest night of the year.
Throughout the evening, attendees will have opportunities to directly fund upcoming wishes through auction packages and giving moments woven into the program. The gala traditionally draws business leaders, young professionals, longtime donors, and families connected to the organization.
Event organizers hope guests leave understanding that a wish doesn’t end when the night is over. A fulfilled wish can be a turning point — a happy memory families hold onto during difficult days.
The Greatest Wishes on Earth is Saturday, April 25, at the Four Seasons Hotel Nashville. Proceeds benefit Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee’s mission to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses across the region. Individual tickets are $350. To purchase tickets, shop the silent auction, or donate to the event, visit wish.org/midtn/greatest-wishesearth-gala.