The annual “A Sunday Afternoon with Gilda’s Club” returns on June 1, promising a day of lakeside luxury, local cuisine, and live music — all in support of cancer patients and their families.
This year’s event, hosted at a private home in Innisfil belonging to Charlie from Kool FM Mornings and her husband Rob, is set to be the most intimate and indulgent yet. With only 250 tickets available, guests will enjoy a backyard garden party experience with a cause close to home.
“This event has quite the history behind it,” says Deb James of Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka. “It was actually one of the original fundraising events that helped open up the 'red door', even before our clubhouse officially launched 15 years ago.”
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The $250 ticket includes an afternoon of all-inclusive indulgence, from a tropical signature drink on arrival to wine pairings and gourmet offerings by regional favourites like Food Works, Eclectic Café, the Italian Eatery, and Bruno’s Bakery. Chef Melanie will even be crafting a decadent oyster bar.
And the entertainment? Iconic Canadian band 54-40 will headline with a two-set performance — the first a semi-unplugged acoustic set, followed by a full-on plugged-in show. “You’re not sitting in an arena,” James says. “This is up close and personal, just you and 54-40 in someone’s backyard.”
Beyond the glamour and gourmet bites lies the heart of the event: support for those navigating cancer. Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka provides free programming for anyone impacted by cancer — patients, families, and caregivers alike.
You get a cancer diagnosis, and it hits you like a ton of bricks. “We’re here to help wrap your head around it. Sometimes it’s not even about talking — it’s about sitting with someone who just gets it.”
Listen below to our full interview with Deb James on this week's What Barrie's Talking About podcast.
All proceeds from the fundraiser go directly to Gilda’s Club’s free services, including support groups, wellness programs, and resources for families. Guests will also receive a $100 charitable tax receipt with each ticket.
Tickets can be purchased at www.gildasclubsimcoemuskoka.org, where you can also learn more about the organization’s 15th anniversary events, including a fall gala at the clubhouse on September 17.
Whether you're a music lover, foodie, or simply looking to support a meaningful cause, this event promises memories, community, and impact. As James puts it: “If you love music, garden parties, and Gilda’s — this is the event for you.”
