The Hamptons in 2026 has dazzled the out east visitor set out on a journey to elevate the year with sophistication and luxury dotted with philanthropic fundraising to inspirational layers of art.
The weekend of July 24 kicked off in a glorious fashion with the glorious The Summer EDITION Series.
EDITION hosted a two-day weekend residency presented by American Express at the iconic Montauk destination, The Crow’s Nest. Experiencing the divine daytime session on Saturday afternoon was a moment filled with sunshine and culinary delights mixed with exquisite wellness offerings.

(By The Knockturnal)
The curated day, which was available exclusively to American Express Platinum Card® and Centurion® Members through the Premium Events Collection, allowed for guests to sit on the famed beach for delicious delights and incredible hospitality.
Restorative wellness experiences began the session along Lake Montauk with innovative fitness classes in partnership with Barry’s Bootcamp and experiences with wellness social club Remedy Place that including sound healing and ice bath plunges.
Guests continued the good vibes as they headed to the sand where an SPF station from science-backed, fan-favorite skincare brand, Augustinus Bader primed the afternoon for more fun in the sun. Looking over a curated presentation of Ben Watts’s Montauk archive created an artful pause throughout the day before delving into a scrumptious lunch drawn from EDITION’s global portfolio with a seasonal touch.

(By The Knockturnal)
“Through the American Express Premium Events Collection, we’re always looking for impactful ways to bring together world-class dining, culture, wellness, and entertainment in unforgettable settings that reflect our Card Members’ passions,” said Kristina Hunt, Vice President, Enterprise Events and Experiences, American Express.
Watts running along the water to capture original imagery throughout the day added to the magic of the Hampton’s day.
“EDITION naturally extends its point of view to the destinations that define the season. Following the inaugural Summer EDITION at the iconic El Silencio in Ibiza, this second installment now arrives at the equally iconic Crow’s Nest, transporting our distinctive balance of leisure, energy, and cultural relevance to another one of the most sought-after summer settings,” says George Fleck, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, EDITION. “On this next stop of our global series of pop-up events, EDITION serves as a cultural meeting point for like-minded communities to connect with design, culture, wellness, and culinary experiences along the Hamptons’ sun-drenched coastlines.”

(Courtesy by Ron Asadorian for Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com)
Southampton’s summer social calendar welcomed one of its most meaningful philanthropic gatherings on Saturday as community leaders, longtime supporters and Hamptons residents came together at Whitefield on Hill Street for the ACE Sunflower Benefit, an evening dedicated to raising awareness and support for ACE Programs for the Homeless while recognizing the decades-long commitment of philanthropist Henry Buhl.
The day opened with a lively pickleball tournament before guests gathered for cocktails, dinner and live music in the historic setting, creating an atmosphere that balanced summer celebration with a shared commitment to helping New Yorkers rebuild their lives through meaningful employment, job training and ongoing support services. Throughout the evening, the focus remained firmly on ACE’s mission of creating pathways toward long-term economic independence for individuals who have experienced homelessness, incarceration or addiction.
Nine teams participated in the pickleball tournament with players including; Nicole Perrotta, Ellie Manko, Richard Swanson, Alena Alekhin, Gregory Redmond, Alex Donner, Anne Prosser, Sam Pai, Dane Neller, Charlotte Ricks, Monique Grignard, Amanda Holmen, Cindy Farkas, Noelle Nikpour, Maribel Lieberman, Sandra Sanches, Debbie Farrington & Gina Fini. The winners of the pickleball tournament were: Sandra Sanches & Dane Neller and in second place Alena Alekhin & Richard Swanson.

(Photo courtesy BFA / Kevin Czopek)
Kenneth and Maria Fishel welcomed guests to their Bridgehampton estate for an elegant summer garden party presented in partnership with Asprey of London, transforming their private residence into a celebration of British craftsmanship, refined hospitality and timeless Hamptons style. Notable attendees included Michele Heary, Candace Bushnell, Nicole Miller, Geraldo Rivera, Erica Rivera, Donna Rubin, Jean Shafiroff, Kathy Prounis, Wendy Federman, Adriana Castro and Jennifer Luloff.Set amongst the beautifully landscaped gardens, the afternoon showcased a curated selection of Asprey London’s celebrated jewelry, silver, leather goods and objets d’art. Founded in 1781, the iconic British luxury house has long been associated with exceptional craftsmanship and an international clientele that has included royalty, heads of state and distinguished collectors.
Guests enjoyed refreshments while exploring the Asprey collection in an atmosphere that blended classic English elegance with the relaxed sophistication of a Hamptons summer afternoon. The annual gathering reflected the Fishels’ longstanding reputation for entertaining and their ability to bring together luxury, culture and hospitality in one of the East End’s most picturesque private settings. The event once again highlighted the enduring appeal of exceptional design, meaningful connections and the timeless tradition of summer entertaining.

(Courtesy Spotlight Magazine)
And, Spotlight Magazine’s cover party celebrated their newest issue featuring Alexa Ray Joel.