One of Nashville’s most enduring and elegant traditions will return at 7 p.m. June 6, when the 64th annual Swan Ball comes into full bloom at Harpeth Meadow in Edwin Warner Park. Known as one of the country’s premier white-tie charity events, the Swan Ball spotlights the city’s philanthropic spirit and signature sense of style — all in support of Friends of Warner Parks. The event is led by Swan Ball 2026 Chairs Jenny Corts and Jennie Garth Lowe, who previously chaired the Late Party in 2011.
“It is a sincere honor for us to co-chair the Swan Ball together this year,” the chairs say. “Not only are we dear friends, but this role marks a special full-circle moment for us, as we step into this role fourteen years after chairing the Late Party together. Swan Ball is such a longstanding Nashville tradition, and for both of us, it feels incredibly personal to now serve as chairmen of the 64th annual Swan Ball.”
This year’s event promises both legacy and a new perspective, thanks in part to its setting.
“It’s the second year at this venue, and I just think it brings a whole new freshness to the event,” says Susan Chapman of the Swan Ball Public Relations Committee. “It’s a beautiful setting. And what people do with a tent — it’s amazing. You think, ‘I’m not in Kansas anymore.’ It’s beautiful.” The co-chairs say they’ve looked for thoughtful ways to bring their perspectives to the evening through creative direction and overall experience.
“When we began dreaming about our vision for this year’s Ball, we immediately thought of the changing of the four seasons,” the women say. “The evening will reflect spring, summer, autumn, and winter through artwork installations, bespoke linens, and florals designed to embody the character and beauty of each time of year.”
Guests will begin the event with a cocktail reception before moving into the main tent, where dinner, remarks from event leadership, and the presentation of the Swan Award take place. This year’s honoree is Country Music Hall of Fame member Joe Galante. From there, the night crescendos into a celebration, with live music accompanying dinner before the evening’s headlining performance.
Little Big Town will take the stage as the night’s featured entertainment, bringing a rich career of hits, including “Girl Crush,” “Pontoon,” “Better Man,” and “Little White Church.” Afterward, the party will continue with a late-night band.
“It’s a night,” Chapman says with a laugh. “Everybody’s dancing. It’s just a beautiful, happy evening — lots of flowers, beautiful dresses, beautiful tuxes.”
The Swan Ball extends beyond a single evening, with a series of events leading up to the main celebration. Festivities begin with the Swan Ball Auction Party, where guests bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences and luxury items, followed by a Patrons Party and a dedicated Jewelry Party. The latter offers attendees the chance to view — and purchase — pieces from the event’s featured jeweler, Richters of Palm Beach.
“It’s just a nice little extra component,” Chapman says of the annual featured jeweler. “It’s fun to see what a different jeweler brings every year. Everybody’s jewelry has a different personality.”
At its core, however, Swan Ball is about making a positive difference. Proceeds benefit Friends of Warner Parks, the nonprofit partner that supports the preservation, maintenance, and programming of Percy and Edwin Warner Parks — a 3,195-acre area minutes from downtown Nashville.
“Swan Ball is a reflection of our community coming together in support of something greater than itself — and that shared commitment is what makes the evening not only meaningful, but unforgettable,” the chairs say.
The scale of that impact continues to grow. In 2025, Swan Ball contributed $1 million to Friends of Warner Parks, supporting initiatives aligned with a long-term improvement plan.
For Chapman, who has worked in the nonprofit space for decades, the effort behind the event is as impressive as the result.
“I’m incredibly awed and proud of this group — mostly women — who just get things done,” she says. “They are amazing planners, amazing fundraisers, and incredibly generous. It’s a pretty awesome thing to watch.” Swan Ball 2026 Chairs, Jenny Corts and Jennie Garth Lowe, agree.
“While the night itself is glamorous and thoughtfully designed, what makes it so special is everything behind it,” they say. “This evening would not be possible without the unwavering dedication of our volunteer committees, the creativity of our vendors, and the generosity of our donors. It truly takes a village.”
Founded by the late Mrs. Jane Anderson Dudley, Swan Ball has grown into one of the nation’s most successful charity events, powered each year by more than 250 volunteers.
“It’s beautiful,” Chapman says. “But it’s also meaningful. That’s what makes it special.”