The City of Angels was granting wishes at the Make-A-Wish Greater Los Angeles gala this week, where event sponsors said the event raised over $2 million.
Guests included Keke Palmer, Tara Lipinski, Rachel McCord, Cindy Cowan, Elisabetta Canalis, and more entertainers, philanthropists, and supporters for a special evening that was dedicated to granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses,. Held at the Fairmont Century Plaza, this night also celebrating two philanthropic leaders, Dana Golden and Bill Fischel.
Chaired and hosted by Jedd Gold, the event transformed its venue into a stunning enchanted forest, with a program that combined live performances, a high-profile auction, personal stories from wish families and tributes.
Tara Lipinski attends the 2026 Los Angeles Make A Wish Foundation Gala at Fairmont Century Plaza. Photo credit: Claudia LaRoche
“I couldn’t be more proud of what we accomplished. It was an absolutely epic evening,” said Gold, gala chair and host and vice chair of Make-A-Wish Greater Los Angeles. “I had a vision for the experience I wanted people to have this year and it was a team effort bringing a magical enchanted forest to life for an important cause.”
Throughout the night, guests enjoyed a family-style dinner. And performances included Harry Mack, who brought in some 90s flair with his freestyle rap, and Rachel Platten, who sang “Stand by You” and “Fight Song.”
Jedd Gold welcomed the audience in, followed by remarks from Sana Moezzi, director of advancement for Make-A-Wish Greater Los Angeles and a former wish kid. A live auction led by auctioneer Billy Harris featured a collection of luxury experiences and coveted sports packages, including a private dinner for 12 prepared at a guest’s home by three Michelin-starred chefs, a Four Seasons Bora Bora getaway with PS LAX transfers, an artwork by Mr. Brainwash, and a Los Angeles Rams MNF package with pregame field passes, and four MVP seats at a Dodgers game, which included a player meet-and-greet and batting practice.
“The power of a wish has been proven by research,” Aparna Pande, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Greater Los Angeles, said. “A wish grants hope, strength, and joy to children facing critical illnesses and the families that walk beside them.”
Elisabetta Canalis attends the 2026 Los Angeles Make A Wish Foundation Gala at Fairmont Century Plaza. Photo credit: Claudia LaRoche
Other highlights included 11-year-old singer Isabella Viking, performing “A Million Dreams” as screens displayed the names, ages, diagnoses and wishes of children still waiting for theirs to be granted. Wishes like seeing Ryan Reynolds and going to film sets.
The night continued with wishes that were granted, including a 17-year-old, Kira, who was able to reunite with her grandparents in war-torn Ukraine. A Fund-A-Wish paddle raise followed to give gala attendees more opportunities to help make wishes come true.
The gala also recognized Guerin and Fishel for their philanthropic leadership and contributions to the organization.
