Move over, Met Gala — the real showstopper in May isn’t at the Met, it’s under a big white tent in Central Park. That’s right, the first Monday may bring the fashion, but the first Wednesday brings the flair — and the florals — at the annual Frederick Law Olmsted Award Luncheon, affectionately (and fabulously) known as The Hat Luncheon.
Held this year on May 7, 2025, the luncheon was a high-society garden party meets philanthropy power-play, hosted by the indefatigable Women’s Committee of the Central Park Conservancy. Not just another excuse to wear a hat larger than your apartment’s square footage, this über-chic gathering raised a jaw-dropping $4.3 million for the ongoing care and charisma of New York’s beloved backyard: Central Park.
Betsy Smith, CEO and President of the Central Park Conservancy, presided over the petal-powered proceedings with the elegance of a swan on the Lake (the Central Park one, of course). Luncheon co-chairs Ranika Cohen, Bonnie Comley, Jenna Segal, and Julia Power Weld pulled off the kind of event that promises to sell out year after year. Oh, and let’s not forget the unstoppable Tracey Huff, whose event magic deserves its own standing ovation.
This year’s honoree, Jenny Price, was fêted for her commitment to Central Park and the city that orbits it. Price may not wear a cape, but her dedication to green spaces definitely earns her superhero status.
While most of Manhattan showed up in their Wednesday best, some attendees jet-set from across the country just to sip rosé and salute Olmsted — the OG park planner — in high style. From L.A. socialites to Texas philanthropists, it’s clear the lawn love runs nationwide.
And yes, the hats were everywhere: towering blossoms, feathered fantasies, and enough millinery masterpieces to make Ascot jealous. No, they didn’t block the view — they were the view.
So while the Met Gala might have Rihanna and robots, the Frederick Law Olmsted Luncheon has heart, hats, and horticulture — and that, darlings, is what keeps Central Park blooming.