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The Vallarta School for Girls’ Tropical Christmas Garden Party was a festive triumph, bringing together community, creativity, and generosity in one unforgettable evening. 350 supporters gathered on Sunday, December 15, at the Los Mangos Library, turning the lush garden setting into a joyful celebration of education and opportunity.
With a warm tropical breeze setting the scene, guests arrived in delightfully creative tropical attire—many adding playful holiday touches that perfectly captured the spirit of the event. From Santa hats paired with palm-print shirts to sparkly sandals and leis, the crowd enthusiastically embraced the theme.
Seated at tables across the lawn, guests mingled over cocktails, browsed the silent auction, reconnected with old friends, and made new ones. The evening officially kicked off with the ever-charismatic Derek Carkner, who served as host extraordinaire. With humor and heart, Derek welcomed guests, shared the school’s mission, and kept the energy high with lively banter between performances.
The entertainment opened with a dynamic performance by Delilah Beaucoup, whose infectious energy immediately had the audience engaged and smiling.
One of the most touching moments of the evening followed, as the girls from the Vallarta School for Girls—led by volunteer music teacher Stolie—took the stage. Dressed in festive outfits, including several sweet angel costumes, the choir delivered a heartwarming performance that had phones out and cameras flashing.
“I love this event because it’s joyful and festive, but also deeply meaningful,” said Stolie. “It gives guests a chance to see the girls perform up close and really feel their excitement. Yes, some of them are nervous—but performing for a large audience is a big deal. Watching them rise to the occasion is incredibly special, and it’s a wonderful experience for everyone involved.”
The music continued with performances by Stolie, Mau, and Kevin Anthony, building momentum throughout the evening. Surprise guest performer, Enrique de Allende, the international singing sensation from San Miguel Allende, gave a performance that left the audience in awe.
After a few crowd-pleasing duets with Kevin-Anthony, Kim Kuzma closed out the night in signature style—getting guests on their feet and filling the dance floor.
Dinner was a true community effort, prepared by teachers from the school with support from Alfonso Aguilar, whose company, Home Improvement PV, is serving as architect and general contractor for the school’s new campus. Alfonso and his team worked the grill, serving carne asada and other flavorful bites. The food was quickly delivered to guests by the girls from the school, assisted by Chef Roman Ventura, a Silver Sponsor of the event.
“This is my third year being involved with the Tropical Christmas Garden Party, and every year it truly gets bigger and better,” said Ventura. “Seeing so many people come out to support the school is incredibly rewarding. This year was especially meaningful for me because I got to work closely with the teachers and the girls, and also connect with so many guests. It really felt like a community celebration.”
A fun new addition this year was the Best Tropical Holiday Outfit Contest. Michelle Burnett, a member of the fundraising committee, led the contestants as they modelled their outfits to enthusiastic applause. The winning look belonged to Dr Sean from Satisana Medicine, who earned both bragging rights and cheers from the audience.
As the evening drew to a close, Francie Nguyen, founder of the Vallarta School for Girls and president of the board, took the stage to thank the performers, volunteers, teachers, students, sponsors, and—most importantly—the guests whose support made the night such a success.
Sponsors for the event included: Cassandra Shaw Jewelry, Dog & Cat Veterinary Services, Deborah Cole Photography, Jim and Marsha Meadows, Ventura Chef Services, Daiquiri Dicks on the Beach, Olympia, Villa Titas & Casitas, ThriVe Medspa, and Bonito Kitchen Group.
“2025 has been a milestone year for our school,” Francie shared. “We formalized our first board of directors, celebrated our first graduation, broke ground on our new campus, expanded into international fundraising, and now hosted our Tropical Christmas Garden Party raised over 345,000 pesos, an 11% increase over last year. This event was the perfect way to close out the year, and we’re incredibly excited about what’s ahead in 2026.”
Looking Ahead to 2026: More Ways to Support the School
Building on the momentum of the Tropical Christmas Garden Party, the Vallarta School for Girls has three exciting fundraising events lined up early in the new year:
Stars With a Heart – January 25, 2026
Producer and director Mary Porter once again brings Stars With a Heart to Teatro Vallarta, uniting many of Vallarta’s most beloved performers for one dazzling afternoon. Hosted by Kevin Anthony, the show features an impressive lineup including Nicolas King, Ada Vox, Gabe Arciniega, Patriz, David Sabella, Mayra & Martin, Stephanie Wright Watts, Robert Ryan, Alison Lo, Sargento Dan, Bobbi Goddard, Tromba Vetusta, Seth Sikes, Stolie, Salvatore Rodriguez, Kimberly LaRue’s Follies, and the Vallarta School for Girls Choir.
Kevin Anthony: Elevated – February 22, 2026
On February 22 at 7:00 PM, advisory board member Kevin Anthony presents Kevin Anthony: Elevated, a live concert featuring the 44-piece Orquesta Sinfónica Vallarta and Vallarta’s own Roxsand Band. This powerful evening blends soul, Broadway flair, symphonic richness, and local rhythm—and may even include a few surprise guests. Early booking is strongly recommended.
Black and White Gala – March 2, 2026
The elegant Black and White Gala promises an evening that is enchanting, elevated, and exquisitely unforgettable. Performers include Diego Guerrero + Los Martinis, Kim Kuzma, Effie, Alison Lo, and Kim Archer, making it one of the season’s most anticipated events.
Want to Get Involved?
To donate, sponsor an event, or purchase tickets, visit the Girls Education Fund and Vallarta School for Girls at www.girlsedfund.org.
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