26th Annual Best Buddies Miami Gala at Ice Palace Studios

Miami, FL – November 16, 2024 – The 26th Annual Best Buddies Gala: Miami and Champion of the Year was a spectacular and impactful evening benefitting Best Buddies’ mission.

An exclusive event for 850 guests, including business leaders, political dignitaries, sports figures, and celebrities, Gala attendees gathered to support and celebrate Best Buddies’ mission with a cocktail reception, gourmet dinner, live and silent auctions and a live performance by special musical guest 50 Cent.

This year’s event honored celebrity chef and Best Buddies Global Ambassador Guy Fieri with the Spirit of Leadership Award at the Miami Gala. This accolade is awarded to distinguished individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, generosity, and unwavering support for Best Buddies’ mission.

Guy joined Best Buddies in 2010 and for nearly 15 years he has served as a Best Buddies Global Ambassador, co-chairing the organization’s largest fundraising initiative, the Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port, alongside Best Buddies Global Ambassador Tom Brady. As part of the Challenge, Guy helped Best Buddies raise over $62 million for its mission and hosted the annual “Guy Cooking with Best Buddies” event that empowered buddies interested in the culinary industry to serve as sous chefs alongside top celebrity chefs.

Proceeds from this year’s Gala go directly towards Best Buddies’ mission of creating friendships, jobs, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.